Ten companies including Intel Ireland and Pfizer Ireland have committed to reviewing their energy needs under a Government-sponsored programme.
The companies, which are among the largest energy users in the State, are expected to save €20 million over the next three years under the Energy Agreements Programme.
The programme is based on the new Irish Energy Management Standard IS 393, which requires the companies to "undertake a fundamental review of their energy use by implementing a strategic and systematic approach to energy management", according to Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI), the State agency behind the initiative.
SEI estimates that just 10 per cent of companies account for 90 per cent of energy use by industry and if the 50 largest users participated in the scheme, it would result in savings of €50 million over a three-year period.
The programme is based on similar initiatives in Europe.
The 10 companies that have signed up to date are: Aughinish Alumina; Astellas Ireland Company (Dublin Plant); Glanbia Ingredients; Intel Ireland; HJ Heinz Frozen & Chilled Foods; Lagan Cement; Pfizer Ireland Pharmaceuticals, Little Island; Pfizer Ireland Pharmaceuticals, Loughbeg; Wyeth Medica Ireland, Newbridge; and Xerox (Europe).
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