Top 10 Success Stories of Energy Savings

Bangladesh’s garment industry—home to over 4,000 factories and employing more than 4 million workers—is not just the engine of the national economy but also a growing symbol of sustainable transformation. As global buyers demand greener supply chains, energy efficiency has become a powerful lever for reducing costs, lowering emissions, and staying competitive.

In recent years, leading garment manufacturers in Bangladesh have turned energy savings from a theoretical goal into real, measurable outcomes. From rooftop solar and LED retrofits to advanced steam recovery and data-driven monitoring systems, these factories are proving that going green isn’t just good for the planet—it’s also smart business.

In this post, we’ll explore 10 real-world success stories of garments energy savings in Bangladesh. Each case study highlights the strategies used, the savings achieved, and the practical lessons others can follow. Whether you’re a factory owner, sustainability consultant, or just curious about industrial innovation, these examples showcase what’s possible when ambition meets action.

Let’s dive into Bangladesh’s top-performing, energy-smart garment factories.

1. Coats Bangladesh Ltd – Lean Manufacturing & Thermal Recovery

Located in Gazipur, Coats Bangladesh Ltd, a subsidiary of the world’s leading industrial thread manufacturer, has emerged as a benchmark for energy efficiency in the garment sector. With a clear vision to reduce environmental impact and align with global sustainability targets, Coats embarked on a focused energy conservation journey—one that has delivered impressive results over the past few years.

Setting Ambitious Goals

In 2018, Coats Bangladesh committed to reducing its energy intensity by 7% globally by 2022. Locally, the team exceeded that target with a remarkable 29% reduction in energy consumption—a testament to its disciplined use of data, technology, and operational efficiency.

Key Interventions

1. Lean Manufacturing with DMAIC Methodology

Coats adopted the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) framework, integrating Lean Six Sigma principles to identify energy inefficiencies across its processes. Through energy mapping and root-cause analysis, the factory identified and eliminated sources of waste.

2. Real-Time Energy Monitoring

Advanced sub-metering systems and live energy dashboards were installed across key operations. This allowed production teams to monitor machine-level energy usage and instantly detect anomalies—paving the way for proactive maintenance and smarter scheduling.

3. Heat Recovery & Thermal System Optimization

• Exhaust Gas Boiler: Installed on the diesel generator, this unit now captures waste heat and generates 18 tons of steam per day, improving overall thermal efficiency by 13%.
• Economizer: Used to preheat boiler feedwater using flue gas, reducing fuel consumption.
• Condensate Recovery System: Recovers hot condensate from steam lines, minimizing water and energy loss.
• Insulated Steam Lines: Improved heat retention and eliminated radiative losses.

4. Process & Equipment Upgrades

• Low-Liquor Ratio Dyeing Machines: These machines significantly reduced energy and water consumption per batch.
• Radio-Frequency (RF) Dryer: Enhanced drying efficiency and cut thermal demand.
• IoT-Based Yarn Winding Machines: Reduced idle time and power spikes.

5. Lighting & HVAC Improvements

• Daylight Harvesting: Transparent roofing and sensor-based controls reduced lighting energy use.
• LED Retrofitting: All legacy lighting systems were replaced with high-efficiency LEDs.

6. Rooftop Solar Installation

Coats installed a 421 kWp rooftop solar plant, supplying a portion of its daytime electricity load and reducing annual CO₂ emissions by approximately 250 tons.

Results & Recognition

• 29% reduction in overall energy consumption
• Significant cost savings through lower fuel and electricity use
• Reduced carbon emissions and enhanced compliance with international buyer standards
• Featured by FICCI and IFC PaCT as a model for industrial sustainability

2. DBL Group – Cleaner Production in Dyeing Units

As one of Bangladesh’s most prominent vertically integrated textile and apparel conglomerates, DBL Group has consistently led by example when it comes to sustainable innovation. Headquartered in Gazipur, this forward-thinking manufacturer supplies major global brands like H&M, Puma, and George. With operations spanning spinning, dyeing, knitting, and garment production, DBL’s energy-saving journey has been both wide-ranging and impactful.

The Challenge

Dyeing and finishing processes are among the most energy- and water-intensive operations in the textile value chain. In 2015, DBL set out to tackle this inefficiency head-on, aiming to reduce its operational costs, improve environmental performance, and future-proof its business against rising utility prices.

Key Energy-Saving Interventions

1. Steam System Optimization

• Steam Line Insulation: DBL conducted a thermal audit and discovered significant energy losses through uninsulated pipes. By insulating its entire steam network, it reduced heat loss and cut fuel consumption.
• Steam Leak Management: Small steam leaks can waste thousands of BDT monthly. A regular maintenance program was implemented to detect and repair leaks—boosting thermal efficiency and system reliability.

2. Water Efficiency Leading to Energy Savings

• DBL optimized its dyeing recipes and adopted low-liquor ratio machines, reducing water use from 120 liters to 60 liters per kg of fabric.
• Less water to heat meant lower steam demand—creating a dual benefit in water and energy savings.

3. Dyeing Machine Upgrades

• Older dyeing machines were replaced with energy-efficient jet dyeing systems equipped with automated temperature and flow control. These systems minimized energy use by reducing unnecessary heating and pump overuse.

4. Boiler System Enhancements

• An energy-efficient boiler economizer was installed to capture flue gas heat and preheat feedwater, leading to better fuel-to-steam conversion.
• The company also upgraded its feedwater treatment to prevent scaling, ensuring long-term boiler efficiency.

5. Lighting Improvements

• DBL retrofitted thousands of traditional tube lights and CFLs with high-efficiency LED fixtures across production floors, warehouses, and offices.
• The result: a reduction in lighting-related electricity use by over 60%.

Results & Impact

• Over $1 million in annual savings from reduced energy, water, and chemical consumption
• 20% reduction in thermal energy use per kg of dyed fabric
• 50% decrease in water usage across selected units
• Improved compliance with international buyer sustainability codes
• Positive worker feedback due to better indoor air quality and lighting

Sustainability Beyond Energy

In addition to energy efficiency, DBL invested in:

• Rainwater harvesting
• Effluent Treatment Plants (ETPs)
• Waste heat reuse from compressors and generators

3. SM Sourcing Ltd – LEED Platinum Certified Energy-Saving Factory

SM Sourcing Ltd, located in Gazipur, has positioned itself at the forefront of green manufacturing in Bangladesh’s garment industry. In a highly competitive global apparel market, the company took a bold step by investing in green building design and advanced energy systems, ultimately earning a LEED Platinum certification—the highest level awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council.

What sets SM Sourcing apart isn’t just its certification, but the integrated strategy it used to cut energy use by 30%, water by 60%, and increase natural light usage by 75%—all while improving productivity and reducing its environmental footprint.

Green Building Excellence

In 2021, SM Sourcing achieved an incredible 106 out of 110 LEED points, making it one of the highest-scoring LEED-certified garment factories in Bangladesh and South Asia.

This accomplishment reflects a company-wide commitment to:

• Smart building orientation
• Renewable energy use
• Indoor air quality improvement
• Thermal performance optimization

Key Energy Efficiency Features

1. Daylight Harvesting

• Over 75% of workspaces rely on natural daylight, reducing the need for artificial lighting during daytime hours.
• Light sensors and automated dimmers adjust LED brightness based on ambient light levels.

2. Energy-Efficient HVAC Systems

• The factory installed high-efficiency chillers and variable-frequency drive (VFD) motors in its ventilation systems.
• Ducting and insulation were optimized to prevent energy loss.
• Smart thermostats and zone-wise temperature control help minimize overcooling.

3. High-Performance Insulation & Building Envelope

• Double-glazed windows, reflective roofing materials, and thermal-resistant walls reduce heat gain, which drastically cuts cooling loads.
• This results in lower air conditioning energy consumption in Bangladesh’s hot climate.

4. On-Site Renewable Energy

• A rooftop solar PV system supplies a portion of the factory’s daytime electricity, helping reduce grid dependency and emissions.
• Excess solar power is fed into the grid under a net metering policy, maximizing energy use efficiency.

5. Advanced Lighting Systems

• Entire facility is equipped with LED fixtures and motion sensors.
• Lighting zones are divided by task areas, ensuring only occupied zones are lit.

6. Building Automation System (BAS)

• Centralized digital controls monitor energy, lighting, temperature, and ventilation.
• BAS enables real-time adjustments for maximum efficiency.

Results & Recognition

• 30% reduction in total energy consumption
• LEED Platinum Certification with one of the highest scores in South Asia
• Enhanced brand visibility with sustainability-focused buyers
• Lower operational costs through reduced utility consumption
• Featured as a model green factory by local and international media

Beyond Energy: Other Sustainability Highlights

• 60% reduction in water usage through low-flow fixtures and recycling systems
• Rainwater harvesting system for non-potable uses
• On-site wastewater treatment and reuse in cooling and toilet flushing

4. HAMS Group (HAMS Garments Ltd) – PaCT Model for Water & Energy Efficiency

As one of the early adopters of the IFC PaCT (Partnership for Cleaner Textile) program, HAMS Group, based in Narayanganj, has set a benchmark in balancing energy savings with water efficiency in garment manufacturing. By integrating international best practices with practical local execution, HAMS Garments Ltd successfully cut utility costs while improving productivity and environmental compliance.

Their journey is a textbook example of how structured support programs, such as PaCT, can empower factories to unlock significant savings—even with modest investments.

The PaCT Partnership

Through the IFC PaCT initiative, HAMS Garments received:

• Technical assessments of utility systems
• Custom energy and water saving recommendations
• On-site training and capacity building for maintenance and production teams
• Access to financing for cleaner technology upgrades

The result was a multi-year transformation that generated both short-term savings and long-term sustainability.

Key Interventions Implemented

1. Steam System Optimization

• Boiler Tuning and Maintenance: Ensured optimal fuel-to-steam efficiency through periodic tuning and water treatment upgrades.
• Steam Trap Inspection and Repairs: Reduced steam leaks, cutting unnecessary thermal losses.
• Insulated Steam and Condensate Lines: Improved heat retention and lowered fuel use.

2. Motor & Pump Efficiency

• Replaced oversized pumps with correctly rated models to reduce electrical consumption.
• Introduced Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) in key motor systems to allow speed adjustment based on load.

3. Lighting Retrofit

• Transitioned from fluorescent tube lights to energy-efficient LED fixtures, improving lighting quality and reducing power bills.
• Installation of occupancy sensors in offices and low-traffic areas added further efficiency.

4. Cooling System Upgrades

• Retrofitted air compressors with automatic unloading systems, eliminating idle power consumption.
• Improved ventilation and natural cooling in workspaces to reduce reliance on electric fans.

5. Water-Saving Measures with Energy Impact

• Installed low-liquor ratio dyeing machines and flow control valves.
• Reduced hot water demand, which in turn lowered the energy needed for heating.

Results & Achievements

• 28% overall reduction in energy and water consumption
• Cut utility bills by over BDT 20 lakh (approx. $20,000) per year
• Improved employee comfort with better lighting and temperature control
• Recognized in PaCT case studies as a model SME-level success story
• Strengthened relationships with global buyers emphasizing sustainability

Beyond Technology: Building a Culture of Efficiency

HAMS Garments also focused on:

• Staff training on energy-saving behaviors (e.g., switching off idle machines, leak reporting)
• Creating an internal “Green Team” to champion sustainability initiatives
• Regular monitoring and reporting, ensuring continuous improvement

5. Remi Holdings Ltd – Passive Cooling & Energy Smart Layout

Located in the Dhaka Export Processing Zone (DEPZ), Remi Holdings Ltd is a fully export-oriented garment manufacturer that has garnered international recognition for its commitment to sustainable architecture and operational efficiency. With clients like Decathlon, H&M, and Inditex, the factory understands that global buyers are increasingly prioritizing low-carbon, energy-efficient production partners.

Remi’s strategy has centered around design-driven energy efficiency, proving that thoughtful factory planning—paired with select technology upgrades—can lead to major utility savings without massive capital investment.

Design-Led Energy Efficiency

Instead of relying heavily on mechanical cooling or artificial lighting, Remi Holdings invested in a factory layout and design that harnesses natural elements to minimize energy demand from the start.

1. Passive Ventilation Design

The factory was built with cross-ventilation corridors, high ceilings, and large operable windows, creating a self-cooling airflow system.

This architectural choice reduced the need for electric fans and AC units by 30–35% during most of the year.

2. North-South Building Orientation

• The building’s layout minimizes solar heat gain, especially during peak hours.
• Strategic placement of sunshades and overhangs reduces thermal loads inside the building.

3. Daylight Optimization

• Transparent roof panels and light shelves were installed to redirect natural sunlight deep into the factory floor.
• As a result, artificial lighting is rarely needed during the day, reducing lighting energy consumption by up to 60%.

Technology Upgrades Complementing Design

While design formed the backbone of the factory’s energy savings, Remi also invested in key technologies to reinforce efficiency.

4. LED Lighting System

• All production and administrative spaces were equipped with high-efficiency LEDs.
• Lighting zones were created with motion sensors in low-use areas like stairwells and corridors.

5. Rooftop Solar PV System

• Remi installed a solar photovoltaic system that supplies approximately 15% of the factory’s daily electricity needs.
• Solar-generated power is fed into the internal grid, particularly for lighting and office loads.

6. Efficient Compressed Air System

Upgraded to variable-speed compressors, reducing idle energy loss.

Added automatic drain valves and moisture traps to enhance compressor efficiency.

Results & Benefits

• 20–25% reduction in overall energy consumption
• Improved thermal comfort for workers, leading to higher productivity and lower absenteeism
• Decreased electricity bills by nearly BDT 1.8 million per year
• Positive brand image among sustainability-focused global buyers
• Featured in green factory directories by BGMEA and LEED networks

Recognition

Remi Holdings has been acknowledged by several development partners and certification bodies, including:

• IFC PaCT (supporting technical upgrades)
• LEED Silver Certification
• Inclusion in Better Work Bangladesh for ethical and environmental compliance

6. Karupannya Rangpur Ltd – Green Architecture for Energy Conservation

Karupannya Rangpur Ltd, based in Rangpur, is a shining example of how traditional craftsmanship and sustainable innovation can work hand in hand. As one of the leading manufacturers of jute-based home textile products in Bangladesh, Karupannya has integrated green architecture and natural resource optimization to create an energy-efficient production environment—one that aligns with its eco-conscious product line and brand identity.

By focusing on climate-responsive building design, renewable energy integration, and low-impact processing, the factory has achieved more than 30% reduction in overall energy costs, making it one of the most environmentally forward factories outside the Dhaka–Gazipur industrial belt.

Eco-Industrial Design from the Ground Up

Unlike conventional industrial setups, Karupannya’s factory campus was designed with bioclimatic principles in mind—prioritizing natural cooling, air circulation, daylight use, and minimal energy input.

1. Natural Cooling and Ventilation

• The building features high ceilings, open-plan production spaces, and louvered windows that allow continuous airflow.
• No central air conditioning system is used in production areas, yet internal temperatures remain 4–5°C lower than outside during summer months.
• Roof vents and skylights assist in thermal stack ventilation, minimizing heat buildup.

2. Maximized Use of Daylight

• Skylights and light wells provide bright, evenly distributed daylight across the factory floor.
• Use of natural light during peak hours has reduced reliance on electric lighting by over 60%.

3. Jute-Based Thermal Barriers

• As part of its innovation, the factory incorporated jute insulation panels within roof and wall structures.
• This material, both locally sourced and biodegradable, provides insulation while promoting the use of its own core product.

Key Energy Technologies & Practices

4. Solar Power Integration

• Karupannya installed a rooftop solar plant generating over 150 kWp, which is primarily used for office and administrative operations.
• It also powers LED lighting and small machinery during daylight hours.

5. Efficient Machine Layout

• Machines are arranged in process-optimized clusters, minimizing transport energy and idle time.
• Workstations were positioned to align with natural light zones, improving efficiency without increasing lighting load.

6. Water and Heat Reuse

• The facility features rainwater harvesting systems, which reduce the need for pumped ground water.
• Hot water from jute dyeing processes is reused via a closed-loop system, cutting thermal energy needs.

Results & Recognition

• 30–35% reduction in annual energy costs
• Massive cuts in daytime lighting usage
• Lowered emissions through reduced fossil fuel dependency
• Recognized by UNDP’s Green Business Portfolio as a model sustainable SME
• Received accolades for locally-driven green building innovation

Worker Well-Being & Social Impact

• Naturally lit and ventilated workspaces have led to increased worker satisfaction and retention.
• Health complaints related to heat stress and poor ventilation have decreased significantly.

7. AR Jeans Producer Ltd – Off-Grid Solar Hybrid Solution

Situated in Narayanganj, AR Jeans Producer Ltd is a forward-thinking garment manufacturer specializing in denim products. With rising electricity costs and an unreliable grid, AR Jeans took a bold step toward energy independence by investing in an off-grid solar hybrid energy system, significantly cutting its reliance on fossil-fuel-based power and stabilizing operational costs.

The Energy Challenge

Bangladesh’s garment factories often face fluctuating electricity supply, leading to costly disruptions and reliance on diesel generators. AR Jeans aimed to:

• Reduce grid dependency
• Lower diesel fuel consumption
• Achieve a greener production footprint

Key Components of the Solar Hybrid System

1. Rooftop Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Installation

• AR Jeans installed a solar PV system capable of generating approximately 300 kWp.
• The solar array covers a significant portion of daytime electricity demand, especially for lighting and small machinery.

2. Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)

• A battery bank stores excess solar energy, providing backup power during grid outages and peak demand times.
• This ensures a steady power supply, minimizing production downtime.

3. Diesel Generator Integration

• The system is hybridized with an existing diesel generator, which only kicks in when solar and battery reserves are low.
• This setup reduces diesel consumption by more than 40% annually.

4. Energy-Efficient Equipment Upgrades

• Installation of BLDC (Brushless DC) fans and inverter compressors further reduced overall energy consumption.
• The use of variable speed drives (VSDs) helps match motor speeds with actual load demand.

Results and Impact

• 22% reduction in total electricity costs compared to pre-installation baseline
• Significant cut in diesel fuel use, leading to both cost savings and emissions reduction
• Improved production reliability with fewer power interruptions
• Enhanced corporate social responsibility (CSR) image and compliance with international buyer requirements
• Recognition by industry stakeholders as a model for renewable energy adoption in garment manufacturing

Additional Benefits

• Off-grid capability provides energy security in a country where grid instability can cause losses
• Reduced carbon footprint supports Bangladesh’s climate goals and factory sustainability certifications

8. Snowtex Outerwear Ltd – Clarke Energy Combined Heat & Power (CHP) Installation

Located in Dhamrai, Snowtex Outerwear Ltd is a leading exporter of high-quality outerwear garments, known for its commitment to innovation and sustainability. Facing high energy costs and increasing demand for reliable power, Snowtex turned to Combined Heat and Power (CHP) technology to optimize energy use and improve operational resilience.

What is CHP?

CHP, also known as cogeneration, simultaneously produces electricity and useful heat from a single fuel source, typically natural gas. This approach dramatically improves energy efficiency by capturing and utilizing heat that would otherwise be wasted.

Key Features of Snowtex’s CHP System

1. Clarke Energy Genset Installation

• Snowtex partnered with Clarke Energy, a global leader in distributed energy solutions, to install a natural gas-powered CHP plant.
• The system generates electricity onsite while capturing waste heat for steam generation used in dyeing and finishing processes.

2. Energy Efficiency Gains

• The CHP system achieves overall efficiencies of 80% or higher, compared to less than 50% for conventional separate generation of heat and power.
• It reduces the factory’s dependence on the unreliable national grid, lowering power outages and voltage fluctuations.

3. Reduced Fuel Consumption and Emissions

• By maximizing fuel utilization, Snowtex cut natural gas consumption by up to 40%.
• The plant also reduced greenhouse gas emissions per unit of output, supporting sustainability goals and buyer requirements.

Operational Benefits

• Lower electricity costs due to onsite generation and reduced grid dependence.
• Improved process steam reliability critical for dyeing and finishing quality.
• Enhanced factory energy security, ensuring continuous production.
• Positive impact on carbon footprint and environmental compliance.

Recognition and Impact

• The Snowtex CHP project is featured as a flagship case by Clarke Energy and is cited in industry reports on sustainable textile manufacturing in Bangladesh.
• It has encouraged other factories in the region to explore cogeneration as a viable energy solution.

9. Islam Garments Ltd – High-Efficiency Steam Systems

Located in Tongi, Islam Garments Ltd is a key player in Bangladesh’s RMG sector known for its focus on process efficiency and sustainability. Understanding that steam is a critical utility for garment manufacturing—especially in dyeing and finishing—Islam Garments prioritized modernizing its steam generation and distribution systems to cut fuel use and reduce losses.

Challenges Addressed

Before the upgrade, the factory faced:

• High fuel consumption due to boiler inefficiencies
• Steam leaks and poor condensate recovery
• Heat losses through uninsulated pipes
• Lack of real-time monitoring of steam and energy flows

Key Interventions

1. Boiler Economizer Installation

• Islam Garments installed a boiler economizer to capture residual heat from flue gases.
• This preheats the boiler feedwater, reducing the fuel needed to generate steam.
• Fuel savings of up to 10–12% were recorded immediately after installation.

2. Condensate Recovery System

• A condensate recovery system was implemented to capture and reuse hot condensate water.
• This reduced the need for fresh water and the energy required to heat it, increasing overall thermal efficiency.

3. Steam Trap Audits and Repairs

• Regular inspections and timely repairs of steam traps eliminated leaks and prevented steam wastage.
• Lost steam was reduced by more than 15%, significantly lowering fuel consumption.

4. Steam Line Insulation

• Insulating all exposed steam pipes and valves minimized heat loss.
• This step alone contributed to a 5–7% improvement in boiler system efficiency.

5. Real-Time Energy Monitoring

• Islam Garments installed energy dashboards with sensors on boilers, steam lines, and condensate return.
• Data-driven insights allowed proactive maintenance and optimization of steam usage patterns.

Results and Impact

• 18% reduction in boiler fuel consumption
• Significant cost savings in natural gas bills
• Enhanced reliability of steam supply supporting consistent production quality
• Lower water consumption and wastewater discharge
• Improved compliance with environmental regulations and buyer expectations

10. Brother Bangladesh Ltd – Equipment Modernization and Energy Savings

While not a garment factory itself, Brother Bangladesh Ltd plays a pivotal role in driving energy efficiency across the garment sector by supplying advanced sewing and finishing machines to over 130 factories nationwide. Their commitment to innovation and energy-saving technology has made a measurable impact on overall energy consumption in Bangladesh’s apparel manufacturing.

The Challenge

Many garment factories rely on older, less efficient machinery that wastes electricity and limits productivity. Brother Bangladesh recognized the opportunity to help factories reduce energy use and improve output through technology upgrades and digital monitoring.

Key Innovations

1. High-Efficiency Servo Motors

• Brother’s newer sewing machines feature high-efficiency servo motors, which consume up to 30% less power compared to traditional clutch motors.
• These motors also offer quieter operation, less heat generation, and more precise speed control.

2. IoT-Enabled Nexio Productivity Monitoring

• Brother introduced the Nexio system, an IoT-based platform that tracks machine usage, idle time, and energy consumption in real time.
• This data allows factory managers to identify bottlenecks, reduce idle running, and optimize power usage.

3. Inverter-Controlled Motors for Auxiliary Equipment

• Auxiliary machines such as cutters, conveyors, and presses have been upgraded with inverter-driven motors, enabling variable speed control and energy savings.

4. Training & Technical Support

• Brother provides training to factory technicians on machine maintenance and energy-efficient operation, helping sustain savings over time.

Impact on Factories

• Factories report energy savings of up to 30% per machine line after switching to Brother’s advanced equipment.
• Improved machine uptime and productivity contribute to overall operational efficiency.
• Reduced electricity demand lowers peak load charges and utility costs.

Conclusion

Bangladesh’s garment industry is rapidly transforming from a cost-driven manufacturing hub to a global leader in sustainable apparel production. The top 10 success stories featured here demonstrate how garment factories of all sizes are embracing energy efficiency through innovative technology, smart design, and process optimization.

From industry giants like Coats Bangladesh Ltd and DBL Group to pioneering SMEs like Karupannya Rangpur Ltd and HAMS Group, these factories have proven that energy savings translate into real financial benefits, reduced environmental impact, and stronger buyer relationships.

Key strategies like steam system optimization, solar energy adoption, LED lighting retrofits, and green building design have become proven levers for cutting utility bills without sacrificing productivity. Moreover, integrating data-driven energy monitoring and fostering a culture of sustainability are essential enablers of continuous improvement.

As global demand for responsible manufacturing grows, energy efficiency will remain a critical pillar of Bangladesh’s garment sector competitiveness. These success stories not only inspire but also offer practical roadmaps for factories seeking to reduce costs and carbon footprints simultaneously.

Whether you manage a large factory or a smaller unit, the opportunities to improve energy performance abound. By investing in technology, training, and innovative solutions, Bangladesh’s garment industry can continue to lead the way in delivering both quality and sustainability.

FAQs

1. What are the most effective energy-saving technologies used in Bangladesh’s garment factories?

Commonly used technologies include steam system optimization (like economizers and condensate recovery), LED lighting retrofits, rooftop solar power, energy-efficient motors and compressors, and real-time energy monitoring systems.

2. Which garment factories in Bangladesh have achieved LEED certification?

SM Sourcing Ltd is a notable example, having earned LEED Platinum certification for its green building design and comprehensive energy efficiency measures.

3. How can solar energy systems help garment factories reduce energy costs?

Solar PV systems generate electricity onsite during the day, reducing reliance on the grid and diesel generators. Hybrid systems with batteries further enhance reliability and energy savings.

4. What is the typical return on investment (ROI) for energy efficiency upgrades in garment factories?

ROI varies by project size, but many factories report payback periods between 1 to 3 years, with ongoing savings that significantly improve profitability.

5. How can smaller garment factories start improving their energy efficiency?

Starting with basic measures like LED lighting, steam trap audits, motor maintenance, and simple behavioral changes can yield quick savings. Partnering with programs like IFC PaCT can provide technical guidance and financing support.

6. Are energy savings in garment factories good for the environment?

Yes, energy savings reduce greenhouse gas emissions and pollution, helping factories comply with international environmental standards and meet buyer sustainability requirements.

7. How important is employee training in energy efficiency?

Employee awareness and training are critical. Well-informed staff can identify energy waste, maintain equipment better, and sustain savings long-term.