Panasonic Factory in Penang has successfully attained a net-zero CO2 emissions status, marking a significant achievement in their ongoing journey towards full environmental sustainability. The ISO 14001-certified facility, covering a land area of 100,700 square meters with a build-up area of 28,430 square meters, has implemented various innovative measures to reduce CO2 emissions.
Key initiatives at Panasonic Automotive Systems Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. include the replacement of energy-intensive equipment such as water pumps, lighting, air-conditioning, and cooling systems with energy-efficient alternatives. Motion sensors have been installed, air leak surveys conducted, and countermeasures implemented to enhance efficiency.
In October 2018, the company invested in renewable energy by installing a small photovoltaic system, contributing 0.8% of the total factory’s electricity consumption. This step towards sustainability has been vital in achieving their net-zero CO2 emissions status.
However, maintaining the zero-CO2 factory status necessitates unwavering commitment from both management and staff. The company has been proactive in promoting energy-saving practices, such as replacing air-conditioning with high-volume, low-speed fans and turning off lights during break times to reduce wastefulness. Suzuki, a representative of Panasonic, emphasized the importance of employee support in this journey.
Looking ahead, Panasonic Automotive Systems Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. has set a target to systematically reduce its energy consumption by 3% annually. A significant step towards this goal will be the installation of a larger photovoltaic system, featuring 3,284 solar panels on the factory’s rooftops by March 2024, which will supply 20% of the plant’s electricity needs.
Panasonic Group, as part of its long-term environmental vision “Panasonic GREEN IMPACT,” aims to achieve net-zero CO2 emissions from its operations by 2030, with the ultimate goal of contributing to a reduction of 300 million tons or more in CO2 emissions in the broader society by 2050. This is equivalent to about 1% of the current global CO2 emissions total. In line with this vision, Panasonic Automotive Systems Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. will continue to work on reducing CO2 emissions throughout their value chain by providing solutions that assist their customers in reducing their carbon footprint while maintaining their net-zero CO2 emissions status.
