Founded 50 years ago, Kerry Foods began as a small dairy in the southwest of Ireland. Over the decades, it has evolved into a global powerhouse, providing food ingredients and solutions that meet the needs of consumers across the world. Central to its success has been a commitment to sustainable production, innovation, and solving complex nutritional and environmental challenges.

The company focuses on reducing its environmental impact through energy-efficient practices and projects. This ethos of sustainability is embodied in the operations of its Jackson, Wisconsin facility, a site that has undergone remarkable transformation over the past few years.

A major aspect of the Green Team’s strategy has been the identification and execution of projects that go beyond the “low-hanging fruit” of energy savings, such as lighting upgrades and steam leak repairs. The team has actively sought out more complex and high-impact projects, such as upgrading chiller systems, boiler controls, and installing Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) on process equipment, which have contributed to long-term energy reductions.

One standout project involved upgrading the facility’s boiler system. The high volume of boiler make-up water required for manufacturing processes had previously resulted in large amounts of energy waste. By installing a “condensing stack economizer”, the facility reduced the same amount of energy equivalent to taking 108 passenger vehicles off the road.

This team, in collaboration with We Energies and Focus on Energy, has completed 47 projects since 2017. Nine of those projects completed between 2019 and 2023 saved the bulk of energy. In total, Kerry has saved 14,300,000 kWh and 4,175,000 therms. These impressive savings are equivalent to powering 4,184 Wisconsin homes for a year. Kerry has received $290,000 in incentives from Focus on Energy and is saving $68,000 annually in energy costs.

Kerry Foods’ dedication to energy efficiency extends beyond individual projects. The company continually invests in technical studies and assessments to identify new opportunities for reducing energy use. For example, a comprehensive energy assessment by CoolPlanet provided insights into process heating, water consumption, motors and drives, refrigeration, and HVAC systems. Another assessment by Symbiont focused on efficiency improvements in the facility’s wastewater treatment processes.

These studies are crucial in helping the Jackson facility pursue deeper infrastructure improvements and maintain a forward-looking approach to energy management. By consistently evaluating its operations and adopting innovative technologies, Kerry Foods ensures that energy efficiency remains a top priority in its long-term strategy.

Kerry Foods’ journey in energy efficiency is far from over. The Jackson facility continues to explore new ways to improve its operations and reduce its environmental impact. Monthly energy team meetings ensure that energy-saving ideas and projects are constantly being discussed and implemented. Whether through routine maintenance, like steam trap surveys, or large-scale projects, such as boiler heat recovery and compressed air system upgrades, Kerry is committed to finding innovative solutions for energy efficiency.

Kerry Foods’ Jackson, Wisconsin facility is a testament to the power of innovation, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to sustainability. Through its energy efficiency projects, the facility has not only reduced its environmental impact but also demonstrated that business success and sustainability can go hand in hand. Kerry’s leadership in energy efficiency serves as a model for other companies looking to make a positive impact on the planet while staying competitive in today’s global market.

In recognition of its outstanding achievements, Kerry Foods' Jackson facility was honored with a 2024 Energy Efficiency Excellence Award from Focus on Energy. This award celebrates the facility's exemplary efforts in driving energy efficiency and sustainability, setting a high standard for other businesses in Wisconsin and beyond.