The Suppliers Partnership for the Environment (SP), an association of global automakers and their suppliers working together to advance environmental sustainability through the automotive supply chain, has released a new Energy Optimization Playbook designed to help industrial manufacturers build the business case for energy optimization projects.
The Energy Optimization Playbook provides practical, step-by-step guidance for manufacturers seeking to align energy performance improvements with broader operational and sustainability objectives. It is tailored to support companies, particularly small and mid-sized manufacturers, through each stage of the energy optimization journey, from identifying internal goals and building cross-functional energy teams to securing financing, reducing energy waste, and maximizing the value of investments.
“This new resource is part of SP’s continued focus on providing actionable tools to help companies move from commitment to measurable progress,” said Kellen Mahoney, executive director of SP. “By outlining a structured approach and drawing from real-world case studies, the playbook is designed to empower manufacturers of all sizes to identify opportunities, overcome barriers, and scale impactful energy projects that reduce waste and deliver long-term value.”
Developed through SP’s collaborative working model, the playbook project was chaired by RENEW Energy Partners and integrates insights from OEMs, suppliers, and external collaborators. It includes case examples from General Motors and Magna, as well as references to publicly available tools such as the U.S. Department of Energy’s 50001 Ready Navigator.
As an added benefit, the playbook is accompanied by a free, editable version of the General Motors Energy Treasure Map tool. This spreadsheet-based tool is referenced throughout the playbook and can help facility teams systematically identify, organize, and prioritize energy optimization opportunities.
“RENEW is proud to have partnered with SP on this project to help accelerate the adoption of energy optimization strategies in industrial settings,” said Charlie Lord, Co-Founder and Principal of RENEW Energy Partners. “By offering a clear roadmap and highlighting practical financing options, this playbook gives sustainability champions the tools they need to drive change within their organizations, without needing to be energy experts themselves.”
The Energy Optimization Playbook is a free resource intended to help companies at all stages of their sustainability journey. Whether launching a new energy initiative or seeking to strengthen existing efforts, manufacturers can use this guide to build internal alignment, evaluate options, reduce inefficiencies, and confidently move from planning to implementation.
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