“The Certification in Energy Excellence program was born out of the need for organizations to verify their energy and environmental leadership,” remarked Arkell, who oversees the CEE process. “It is not only St Marys’ progress and leadership in energy use reduction that is recognized by certification, but also the company’s adoption of strategic goals and initiatives that ensure these reductions continue into the future.”

“Completing the Certification Program is not about filling in forms. It’s about demonstrating real results and measurable performance improvements,” said Fabio Garcia, Bowmanville plant manager. “It’s a valuable approach, not only for companies in an industrial sector like ours [but] any organization that aspires to long-term sustainability while maximizing cost control. By engaging in the CEE Program, St Marys Cement was able to save $550,000 annually.”

Garcia concluded the award ceremony by thanking the representatives of 360 Energy, Mayor Abernethy of Clarington, Ont., McNeely and plant staff for the support they have shown.

The CEE program assesses, mentors and recognizes an organization’s energy management efforts and plans for the future. Independent energy assessors conduct an in-depth assessment of the organization’s energy performance over the past three years. An energy baseline is established, and a trend of improvement demonstrated. Data is verified by the UK-based National Energy Foundation (NEF), which provides an independent, third-party evaluation based on international standards.

“St Marys has demonstrated a commitment to the wise use of energy by securing CEE certification,” added McNeely. “As an engineer, I appreciate the importance of the CEE program’s energy management criteria, and its requirement of progressive improvements in standards to ensure further progress.”