SMEs in the East Midlands are currently benefiting from a unique opportunity to learn about energy efficiency measures in action at Toyota Motor Manufacturing in Derby. This initiative, a collaboration between the global powerhouse and East Midlands Chamber, aims to provide practical insights and firsthand experiences to local businesses.
The Energy Reduction workshop, fully funded as part of the Accelerator project supported by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, offers participants a rare chance to witness demonstrations and observe energy-saving practices firsthand. Toyota Energy Specialists lead the workshop, focusing on decarbonization and effective energy cost management strategies.
Feedback from attendees of the initial workshop in July has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing how valuable it was to see Toyota’s improvements in action and how they could apply similar measures in their own operations. According to Penny Engineering Managing Director Robin Penny, witnessing a premier manufacturer like Toyota reduce its carbon footprint firsthand is incredibly valuable for SMEs.
Midland Lead Managing Director Francoise Derksen emphasized the importance of energy reduction and sustainable manufacturing in their own operations, noting the need to adapt behaviors and operational practices. The insights gained from Toyota’s workshop have sparked ideas for improvement within their own manufacturing plant.
East Midlands Chamber Deputy Chief Executive Diane Beresford highlighted the significance of SMEs gaining practical takeaways from Toyota’s demonstrations, noting that the company’s decades of experience in energy management have led to substantial advancements and improved competitiveness. By sharing this knowledge with local businesses, Toyota’s efforts in energy efficiency can have a broader impact on the region’s industrial landscape.
