SMEs in the East Midlands are learning first-hand about energy efficiency measures being implemented at Toyota Motor Manufacturing in Derby, thanks to a new initiative between the global powerhouse and East Midlands Chamber.
The fully funded Energy Reduction workshop, part of the Accelerator project funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, provides a rare opportunity to experience a practical demonstration and shop floor observation with Toyota Energy Specialists. Decarbonisation and how the company has applied sound energy costs management are high on the agenda.
Feedback from businesses at the first workshop in July was that Toyota’s step-by-step explanations about its improvements, supported by visual aids and storyboards, will provide immense value when it comes to implementing their own energy-saving measures.
Penny Engineering Managing Director Robin Penny said: “To be able to see firsthand how a premier, worldwide manufacturer reduces its carbon footprint is very valuable for an SME. I can’t think of any work environments where this could not be applied.”
Midland Lead Managing Director Francoise Derksen said: “I operate a manufacturing plant and our energy reduction and sustainable manufacturing is an important focus. We have made lots of investments but we now need to look at behaviours and change our way of working. Lots of great ideas today.”
East Midlands Chamber Deputy Chief Executive Diane Beresford said: “SMEs gaining such valuable takeaways from Toyota’s practical observations and shopfloor demonstrations was exactly what we wanted.
“Toyota Manufacturing UK has over 30 years of energy kaizen experience which has resulted in significant energy reductions, technological breakthroughs and all that means when it comes to improved competitiveness. Supporting SMEs in accessing this know-how means widening the impact of Toyota’s efforts and investment in this area.”
