OSTCHEM Holding taps energy saving programs amid rising energy prices

ОJSC Crimean Soda Plant, incorporated in the OSTCHEM Holding AG, achieved a substantial cut in energy consumption in 2007.

In 2007 the plant management put forward a 5-year business plan outlining its development strategy in the context of rising energy prices. As a result the plant saved plant 44,000 Gcal of steam, 2,500 GWh of electricity and 380,000 cu m of natural gas in 2007. Crimean Soda Plant also cut down on raw materials consumption - 150 tons of ammonia water and 3,680 tons of coal stone. The amount of raw materials and energy resources saved is comparable to their consumption in two weeks of mineral salts production.

In view of the annual increases in the price of natural gas the Crimean Soda Plant is looking into alternative sources of energy. The company is currently conducting research into replacing natural gas in caustic soda production with coal-water slurry. The research is to determine the efficiency of alternative energy products. If the technology proves efficient, the plant may in 2008-09 start a gradual switch to coal-water slurry.