Successful energy management

Systematic energy management lowers energy costs sustainably. The effects on company profit can be profound. Each measure that reduces energy costs secures the existence of your company and creates free capital for your actual tasks.

An important aspect of comprehensive energy management is load management. Here the goal is to reduce power peaks. However, much energy can be saved in other areas as well (see Focus of analysis). The options for greater energy efficiency also depend on the branch.

If you want to outsource energy management, there are various forms of contracting (Energy services). Energy consultants can show you where you can best save energy.

Energy management considers three important aspects:

  1. Economical handling of energy, i.e., cost-effective purchase and efficient use 
  2. Continuous identification of options for saving energy
  3. Positive reinforcement of human behavior (turning off lights, economical driving, etc.)

Energy management can function only if the entire company is convinced of the savings potential and actively supports the process.

Four steps to success

Successful energy management builds on four basis elements that must be integrated as a regular component of company management. The first step is a thorough survey of the existing situation.

Data collection and analysis should be done regularly (at least monthly) in order to achieve clear success. The Austrian Chamber of Commerce states that this alone can bring 10 to 15% energy savings, even without cost-intensive intervention. Many measures to increase energy efficiency also qualify for subsidies.

  • Step 1: Collect, record and visualize data
    At regular intervals, collect the data for your company’s energy usage and thereby visualize it. Use computer programs to assist you. Exact and correct data collection serves as the basis for any feasibility computations; therefore collect the data with particular care.
  • Step 2: Evaluate and analyze data
    Analyzing your collected energy usage data reveals possible starting points for improvements. Computing index values and comparing with other companies (benchmarking) also gives you indicators for energy-saving potential. If your analysis detects irregularities, you need to search for their causes; you might need to make targeted studies and measurements.
  • Step 3: Define and implement measures From the results of analysis, develop organizational and technical measures to make improvements in each area. For large-scale deviations, you need to develop extensive rehabilitation concepts. If rebuilding or other changes are expected in the company, then such measures can usually be implemented without greater effort and investment.
  • Step 4: Monitor success and communicate
    Make the achieved savings visible for everyone. This assures the success of the measures and motivates your team to further steps.

Note: If you take measures toward energy efficiency already in the construction or renovation of your company building, then the energy-saving potential is especially high. Browse some examples of successful construction measures.

Source: Austrian Chamber of Commerce, GEG Agency

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Lower energy expenses means more money for your company mission.