JGL saves 69 percent on electricity

This was achieved through four different projects – the construction of a photovoltaic power station, roof reconstruction, replacement of the cooler, and implementation of a new hot water preparation system. A total of 3.1 percent has been saved within the production, storage and logistics complex JGL Pharma Valley at Svilno, and the implementation of the plan is expected to result in a total reduction in greenhouse gases emissions equivalent to 55.8 tonnes a year. 

"In 2016, JGL introduced the ISO 50001 standard for energy management systems, and we have continued to control our usage and identify opportunities for improvement. One such opportunity to improve our energy efficiency has been the cooperation with the Croatian Ministry of Regional Development and EU Funds mentioned above, which enabled us to partner with its intermediate bodies, especially with the Environmental Protection and Energy Efficiency Fund. We were able to complete the project thanks to their expertise and professionalism as mediators, and our leadership engagement,” says Mate Poropat, JGL’s executive director for pharmaceutical and technical operations.

The agreement covering the four projects of increasing energy efficiency is worth HRK 4,020,117.31 in total, HRK 2,514,426.58 of which will be financed through a grant awarded to JGL.

The project of constructing a photovoltaic power station for our own use was definitely the most complex one out of the four, and it has resulted in the company generating electricity to meet its energy demands. The new power station will cover an average of 2.5% of the total energy needs for all JGL sites. An example of the reduced dependency on the existing grid is the new JGL Pharma Valley complex, which will generate as much as 25% of its electricity from solar technology on sunny days. 

By reconstructing the roof on one of our facilities, we have increased its insulation layer, which resulted in energy savings and significant improvements in the temperature conditions of the storage and logistics facility. In addition to improving our energy system, we have also successfully met the regulatory requirements of good manufacturing practices related to temperature oscillations in key markets in EU and CIS countries. In addition, the installation of a state-of-the-art cooler system enabled us to achieve energy savings, ensure uninterrupted operations, reduce noise levels, and use a more eco-friendly coolant. All this is extremely important to JGL, as it improves the essential elements needed to operate the most strategically significant part of our production plant – sterile solutions. 

The final project – using renewable energy sources to drive the heat pump and solar panels for heating process water – led to significant improvements in performance, as well as in the availability of hot water capacities, which ensures seamless operation and lower usage of traditional energy sources. In doing so, we are able to use renewable energy sources for all out hot process water needs at the Svilno 1 site.  

Without considering any indirect benefits, the return on investment in the four projects in terms of energy savings is expected in 8.5 years, which is a relatively short period for this type of investment.

"Based on our experience in the projects already implemented, and good cooperation with intermediate bodies, JGL’s plan is to continue using appropriated EU funds for its energy-related projects. In case another tender opens, we intend to apply with new projects, since our long-term goal is to supply the entire JGL Pharma Valley complex with the required electricity using solar power.  Naturally, there are other initiatives we are interested in, such as replacing the lighting fixtures in our production facilities and offices, and replacing current machinery with more energy efficient ones,” concludes Poropat.