2025 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

In the US, the food processing sector has consistently been the fourth largest energy-consuming industry since the early 2000s, demanding close to 1.25 exajoules (EJ) of final energy annually (Brueske, 2012). Identifying strategies to effectively optimize energy efficient practices in the food processing industry is essential for long-term reductions in greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) as well as direct realization of operational cost savings.
A Case Study of a food processing business in El Paso, Texas is presented as an example of strategies that can be scaled across similar businesses in size and scope. The assessment process comprised a walk-through inspection of the receiving and shipping processes, and a comprehensive assessment of equipment usage, lighting, water consumption, electrical consumption, heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems, and the physical building envelope. The assessment revealed numerous opportunities for operational improvements.
This Case Study provides insight on the on-site assessment process, including expectations for management involvement and buy-in in the process. Key findings from this Case Study will be shared including subsequent recommendations to guide process improvements for reductions in energy, CO2 emissions, water consumption, and ultimately opportunities for cost savings. Additional strategies for integrating renewable energy, tracking solid waste, enhancing recycling processes, conserving water, and lowering energy consumption are also shared. As evidence of effective strategies for optimizing operational practices, this Case Study will convey recommendations that, if fully implemented, could result in reductions in energy use, reductions in CO2 emissions, reductions in consumed water, and the potential to realize meaningful annual cost savings for the respective food processing business.
This Case Study will also share best practice on engagement of undergraduate and graduate students in the assessment process as an embedded strategy for fostering an aligned future workforce. Strategies for engagement include direct participation in the assessment process and mentored guidance for effective data collection and analysis, report preparation with relevant recommendations for operational efficiency, and direct participation on a team-based project, each of which are valuable workplace skills. Student experiences in the program will be shared, including how engagement influenced their future career pathways.