Enterprise-wide optimization in a petrochemical plant: a MILP approach to energy efficiency improvement

Abstract

Public policy, dollar rate, market prices, contracts values and equipment efficiency influence the costs of the energy sources at an ethylene plant. The aim of this research is to identify energy efficiency opportunities at the energy management resources in a petrochemical industry. It was proved that using MILP makes it possible to achieve energy efficiency gains. MILP proved to be effective, accurate and robust. It confirmed the importance of modeling and simulation with quick response and its implementation in a higher possible rate, since the potential gains running the model once per day were 81% higher than performing it once a month. The optimal resources choice had an average annual potential saving of US$ 556.000/year.