Energy Conservation

In 2006, Goodyear continued efforts to reduce energy consumption in all regions and allocate energy-related capital funds. Energy-related key performance indicators are included with monthly management operations reviews.

D.O.E. Energy Review
As part of an effort to improve energy efficiency in its U.S. manufacturing locations, Goodyear applied for U.S. Department of Energy (D.O.E.) assistance. The manufacturing facility in Union City, Tennessee, was selected for review. After developing a model of the plant’s steam system, energy specialists identified more than $1 million in improvements in the areas of boiler operations, heat recovery and insulation. Research is ongoing with a renewable energy provider to produce steam using plant waste materials in place of fossil fuels. In the process, the plant expects to reduce air emissions further as it incorporates this program into its effort to eliminate disposal of wastes in landfills.

India Award
The Goodyear plant in Aurangabad, India received a first place award for excellence in energy conservation and management by the Maharashtra State Government. Aurangabad’s achievement follows on the heels of a national award for energy efficiency that was earned by the Goodyear plant in Ballabgarh, India.

Manufacturing Efficiency
Manufacturing efficiency at Goodyear facilities continued an improving trend, achieving the second best performance in the company’s history. As measured by energy use (BTU) per pound of product, an overall 12 percent improvement has been made.

Water
Goodyear plants use water primarily for cooling materials and equipment. Other uses include steam generation, cleaning and sanitary service. Some ways that operations conserve water include capturing and returning process water and steam condensate, using water recycling methods and equipment such as cooling towers. Where it is appropriate, plants cool with air instead of water. Total water use per pound of production increased in 2006.