One third of ABA members recognised for energy

The American Bakers Association (ABA) is proud to announce that over a third of 2023 US EPA ENERGY STAR certifications recognising superior energy performance are its baking member facilities.

“The commercial baking industry’s continued commitment to the ENERGY STAR program underscores the significant role our members, and the industry at large, play in leading the way toward a more sustainable future,” said Eric Dell, President and CEO, ABA.

In 2023, the EPA recognised 103 US manufacturing plants for their respective sectors’ top 25% energy efficiency. ABA member facilities are prominent among these achievers, continuing the trend from previous years. The collective efforts of these plants prevented more than 8 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions, showcasing the significant impact energy-efficient practices have.

“ABA continues to work closely with the EPA to promote best practices and recognise the baking industry’s achievements in environmental stewardship,” said Rasma Zvaners, ABA’s Vice President of Government Relations.

“President Biden’s Investing in America agenda is breathing new life into energy efficient domestic manufacturing, and industry partners like those recognised today are leading the way,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “These ENERGY STAR certified plants demonstrate that cutting the embodied carbon of our industrial products through energy efficiency doesn’t just make environmental sense, it makes economic sense.” 

ENERGY STAR-certified plants have implemented different energy efficiency projects and management practices to reduce their energy use. For example, Bimbo Bakeries USA, an ABA member, has installed advanced controls and high-efficiency burners in ovens, oxidisers and boilers and expanded investments in metering systems for real-time monitoring and control of energy usage.

Manufacturing plants earn ENERGY STAR certification by scoring at least 75 out of 100 on the EPA’s energy performance indicators. This signifies they are more energy-efficient than 75% of similar facilities nationwide. The certification is available for 21 manufacturing sectors, including commercial bakeries.