In December 2023, Monde Nissin’s Mandaue Site kicked off trial runs of an innovative multifuel boiler that combines coal and biomass, specifically coconut shells (coco shells). By January 2024, our team reached full operational capacity with an initial fuel mix of 30% biomass and 70% coal. Thanks to ongoing optimization, the biomass ratio has since increased to 60% coco shells and 40% coal, and we’re now achieving a 70:30 ratio. This marks a significant and promising shift toward a more sustainable energy solution.
A key discovery since implementation is the use of coco shell ash, which acts as a natural neutralizer and has eliminated the need for caustic soda in the boiler’s water scrubber. This change simplifies operations, reduces chemical waste, and enhances environmental safety. Additionally, the incorporation of coco shells into the fuel mix has improved combustion efficiency and cut ash production by 70%, resulting in cleaner furnace operations.
Initially, we expected the shift to biomass to increase fuel costs, as biomass has a lower heating value than coal. However, the anticipated cost increase did not materialize. Instead, we achieved a 5% to 10% improvement in thermal efficiency, leading to a 28% reduction in fuel costs compared to 2023. We also realized additional savings by eliminating caustic soda.
The most notable outcome, however, is the substantial reduction in GHG emissions. As a carbon-neutral fuel, biomass offsets the environmental impact of coal, aligning with our global climate goals. This resulted in a 41% reduction in the Mandaue plant site’s Scope 1 emissions versus 2023, primarily driven by reduced coal usage. It also provides the local community with a cleaner, more sustainable energy source, improving overall quality of life.
This multi-fuel approach reflects our commitment to sustainability as we take meaningful steps toward making eco-efficiency possible. By reducing operational costs, we are advancing toward benefiting both people and the planet while fostering long-term sustainability.
About MONDE
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Monde Nissin Corporation is a global food and beverages company headquartered in the Philippines, with a portfolio of iconic and market leading brands across fast-growing categories, including Lucky Me! noodles, SkyFlakes crackers, Fita crackers, Monde baked goods and Quorn meat alternative products. The Company aspires to improve the well-being of people and the planet, and create sustainable solutions for food security. That aspiration is reflected in our commitment to continuously improve our products to make them more delicious, nutritious, and better for the planet. For more information, please visit www.mondenissin.com.
