Energy strategies for food manufacturers

From farm to fork, the food and beverage (F&B) industry is one of the most energy-intensive sectors on the planet. Cold storage, heating and cooling, transport, processing, packaging — every step depends on reliable, often carbon-heavy energy sources. 

At the same time, manufacturers are under growing pressure to meet sustainability targets, improve supply chain resilience, and reduce exposure to price volatility. It’s a complex challenge. But it also represents one of the industry’s biggest opportunities.

In this whitepaper, we explore how F&B businesses can turn energy strategy into a competitive edge — reducing costs, enhancing resilience, and building a clearer path to net zero.

Feeding a growing global population is an energy-hungry business. As demand for food and drink increases, so does the industry’s energy footprint. 

Current estimates suggest that the global food system already consumes around 30% of global energy and produces more than a third of global greenhouse gas emissions. Layered on top of this are new pressures, including — but not limited to:

• Volatile energy markets
• Tighter ESG reporting requirements
• Increased consumer scrutiny
• A transition away from fossil fuels.

For manufacturers in the F&B space — especially those with low margins and complex supply chains — this means rethinking how energy is bought, used, stored, and managed.

Energy efficiency has long been a priority for manufacturers. But with today’s energy landscape and requirements, efficiency alone isn’t enough.

The real opportunity lies in flexibility — the ability to adapt energy consumption in response to grid needs, market signals, or operational conditions. Powered (pun intended) by flexible assets like refrigeration, cold storage, or backup systems, manufacturers can actively participate in energy markets, reduce peak demand costs, and even earn revenue through demand-side response (DSR) programs.

Combined with tools like battery storage, co-generation systems, and virtual power plants, flexibility can transform energy from a passive cost centre into a strategic asset.

This whitepaper is designed for F&B leaders looking to get practical about energy strategy — not just from a sustainability perspective, but as a driver of performance and resilience.

Inside, you’ll find:

• A breakdown of energy use across the F&B supply chain
• Common blind spots in carbon reporting — and how to address them
• Real-world examples of how manufacturers are cutting costs through smarter energy management
• An overview of energy flexibility programmes, DSR incentives, and virtual power plant models

Whether you’re just beginning to explore decarbonisation or looking to optimise your energy infrastructure, this guide will help you identify where your biggest opportunities lie.