Facing Environmental Goals for Energy-Efficiency Improvements in Micro and Small Enterprises Operating in the Age of Industry 4.0

Abstract

One of the biggest challenges of a modern enterprise is finding a balance between achieving environmental goals and being competitive in the era of Industry 4.0 requirements. The digital revolution is forcing companies to overcome various challenges that contribute to reducing energy consumption. Micro and small enterprises carry out activities in the field of energy efficiency by implementing measures to save energy and reduce total energy consumption. However, these activities are limited by many barriers to resources, which means that these activities are much smaller than those in large companies. The purpose of this study was to assess the performance of micro and small enterprises following environmental objectives in improving energy efficiency. The research study, based on a structured and standardized survey questionnaire, was conducted with the use of the CATI technique between April and May 2022 among the owners of micro and small enterprises operating in Poland. The study showed that: (a) the activities of Polish micro- and small-sized companies were aimed at improving energy efficiency through the implementation of environmental objectives; (b) the operation of enterprises in accordance with contemporary environmental requirements improved energy efficiency; and (c) Polish micro- and small-scale enterprises took actions in compliance with environmental requirements.

The Influence of the Global Energy Crisis on Energy Efficiency: A Comprehensive Analysis

“…There are publications in which the authors indicate, with regard to the segment studied, a low level of energy awareness, both in terms of theoretical knowledge and the consequences arising for the environment and society due to the use of energy [129][130][131][132][133]. In publication [134], the researchers indicate a high level of energy awareness among the surveyed segment. EE is a key strategic direction in the new concept of Industry 4.0.…”

Barriers to Renewable Energy Source (RES) Installations as Determinants of Energy Consumption in EU Countries

“…According to an analysis of the existing literature [9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18][19][20][21][22] it is evident that researchers are showing a growing interest in exploring the challenges associated with renewable energy source (RES) development. Furthermore, there is a noticeable emergence of studies that assess the influence of these barriers on the implementation of RESs [22].…”

“…The ambitious targets set for 2030 (a binding renewable energy target of at least 32% at the EU level) require the spread of renewable energy technologies and faster market penetration. To effectively manage the sporadic characteristics of renewable energy sources, industries must innovate by creating new technologies, constructing new transmission infrastructure, and allocating resources to storage solutions [7][8][9][10]. In addition to further technological development, which is made possible by, among other things, reducing costs and improving performance targets in line with the European Strategic Energy Technology Plan (SET Plan) [11], it is necessary to address a number of nontechnological issues (behavior and awareness) that continue to stand in the way of the large-scale dissemination of RES technology [12,13].…”

Assessment of Energy and Heat Consumption Trends and Forecasting in the Small Consumer Sector in Poland Based on Historical Data

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