"There are two sides to digitalization in industry. On the one hand, it offers considerable opportunities to improve energy efficiency, but on the other, it can be very energy-intensive. Digitalization means that more data has to be generated, processed and stored. This requires additional computing capacity and storage resources, which in turn consume more energy. The increasing use of computers, servers, data centers and other electronic devices that require energy also plays a role here," explains Christina Hild, Managing Director of Smart Electronic Factory.

Digital technologies can also increase energy consumption if they are not used efficiently and optimized processes are not implemented. Inefficient processes can lead to increased resource consumption. Christina Hild therefore recommends: "It is therefore important to pursue a sustainable digitalization strategy in order to minimize the corresponding negative effects. Digital sustainability relies on the optimization of infrastructure and the implementation of technologies that contribute to reducing the carbon footprint."

SEF develops and tests solutions for these tasks, such as energy monitoring and energy management. "By using intelligent control and monitoring systems, companies can achieve energy savings, better manage resources and optimize processes. The right application of digital technologies can therefore help to reduce energy consumption and operate more sustainably overall. In this way, industry can make a significant contribution to conserving resources and combating climate change," says Hild.

SEF develops use cases for tasks such as energy saving

An application example in PCB production, in which five members of the association are involved with their solutions, shows how the SEF promotes sustainability and energy efficiency in factories. The interaction enables optimized inspection processes and image recognition during the manual pressing of high-current contacts. The result is a significantly minimized reject rate, which leads to a reduction in costs for raw materials and energy. Furthermore, the quality is increased and the complaint rate is improved as a result. There is also a reduction in energy consumption, as goods returns and reshipments are reduced.

"Sustainable action benefits us all. Not only in terms of our planet, but also in terms of the competitiveness and profitability of companies," concludes Christina Hild.