Implementation of an ISO 50001 energy management system using Lean Six Sigma in an Irish dairy: a case study

This article aims to optimise energy use and consumption by integrating Lean Six Sigma  methodology with the ISO 50001 energy management system standard in an Irish dairy plant operation. Design/methodology/approach – This work utilised Lean Six Sigma methodology to identify methods to measure and optimise energy consumption. The authors use a single descriptive case study in an Irish  dairy as the methodology to explain how DMAIC was applied to reduce energy consumption.Findings – The replacement of heavy oil with liquid natural gas in combination with the new design  of steam boilers led to a CO2 footprint reduction of almost 50%. Practical implications – A further longitudinal  study would be useful to measure and monitor the energy management system progress  and carry out more casestudies on LSS integration with energy management systems across the dairy industry. Originality/value – The novelty of this study is the application of LSS in the dairy sector as an enabler of a greater energy-efficient facility, as well as the testing of the DMAIC approach to meet a key objective for ISO 50001 accreditation