CEMEX USA received recognition from the US Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ENERGY STAR® program earlier this month for its commitment to energy efficiency and initiatives that cut energy usage at multiple facilities nationwide.

CEMEX USA President Ignacio Madridejos accepted ENERGY STAR® Certification for 2017 for four cement plants, receiving certificates from an EPA representative Dec. 4. CEMEX’s Clinchfield, Brooksville South, Miami and Victorville plants each earned ENERGY STAR® for 2017 by ranking in the top 25 percent for energy efficiency when compared to similar U.S. facilities. Since 2007, CEMEX USA has earned 49 certifications with Clinchfield reaching the achievement for a record 11 consecutive years – the longest period of certification held by U.S. cement plants.

“Sustainability is embedded into our strategy,” Madridejos said. “We’re continuously looking for opportunities to reduce our emissions and energy use through improved processes in production, transportation and continuing reliance on alternative fuels.”

According to the EPA, when compared to similar cement plants in the U.S., the four certified CEMEX USA plants consumed 3.4 trillion BTUs less energy.

“Strong energy performance in a corporation starts at the top, and your commitment and support can help CEMEX reach new levels of achievement,” the EPA stated in a congratulatory letter to CEMEX.

CEMEX’s commitment to energy management extends to other operations, including nearly 50 ready mix operations and cement terminals. The San Diego and La Mirada terminals reduced energy usage by more than 10 percent in just a year, achieving the ENERGY STAR Challenge for Industry. Further, several ready mix facilities in Texas have achieved the Challenge, with one cutting energy use by nearly 55 percent. Overall, the CEMEX corporate average reduction in energy intensity for these operations was over 20 percent.