Cascades Plants Admitted to Hydro-Québec’s EcoElectric Network

Cascades, Kingsey Falls, Qué., Canada, reports that four of its plants—Tissue Group–Candiac, Boxboard–Jonquière, Norampac–Cabano, and the facilities in Kingsey Falls (recognized as one site)—are now members of Hydro-Québec's EcoElectric network. The network is made up of a group of major corporations recognized for their leadership and outstanding performance in energy efficiency. The four units join the Cascades Lupel plant in Trois-Rivières, which has been a member of the network since 2008.

To reach the required level, Cascades had to meet the following criteria: 

• Reduce energy consumption by at least 5% or achieve savings of at least 50 GWh per year depending on the plant 
• Adopt a policy on energy efficiency 
• Appoint a person responsible for energy efficiency.

"This recognition is part of a process of continuous improvement that will allow other Cascades plants to achieve the same recognition and become members of the EcoElectric network. Our team of professionals at Cascades EAG has been dedicated to assisting plants in energy efficiency since 1997, which, at the time, was a brand new concept in the industry. Energy efficiency is one of the key objectives of our Sustainable Development Plan 2013-2015, which will be applied in all Cascades facilities," explained Fabien Demougeot, Interim EAG director, Cascades EAG. 

Founded in 1964, Cascades produces, converts, and markets packaging and tissue products that are composed mainly of recycled fibers. Cascades employs more than 12 000 people who work in more than 100 production units in North America and Europe.