Toyota shares energy efficiency tips with local firms

Businesses have been learning first-hand about energy efficiency measures being implemented at Toyota Manufacturing UK thanks to a new initiative between the global powerhouse and East Midlands Chamber.

The fully funded Energy Reduction workshops, part of the Accelerator project funded by the Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, provides a rare opportunity to experience a practical demonstration and shop floor observation with Toyota’s 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, provide immense value when it comes to implementing their own energy-saving measures.

Francoise Derksen, managing director at Midland Lead, who attended the July session, 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. We heard lots of great ideas.”

Diane Beresford, deputy chief executive at East Midlands Chamber, said: “SMEs gaining such valuable takeaways from Toyota’s practical observations and shop floor 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.”

Each workshop is limited to 15 places and takes place over the course of five hours.

Eligible businesses can register their interest in attending the next session on 24 September by visiting https://www.emc-dnl.co.uk/events/energy_reduction_workshop_with_toyota_motor_manufacturing_uk2790861746/ .