Monitoring Environmental Performance
Level 5		 Appendix 7
Energy Improvement Strategies

Methodology for Implementing an Energy Improvement Strategy

Energy Monitoring

A good starting point when looking at reducing energy consumption on site is to check the bills. However, bills are often only an estimate and the only means by which an accurate measure of energy can be understood is through regular (monthly, preferably weekly) meter readings. It may also be worthwhile sub-metering high usage equipment and on each building on site in order to glean a clearer picture.

A general guide to monitoring energy use by meter reading is outlined below:

  1. Train staff (2/3 members) to read meters.

  2. Trained staff should read the meters on a regular basis.

  3. The readings must be accurate- this should be checked.

  4. Meter readings should be input into a computer spreadsheet.

Reading meters is not a time consuming process and can identify invaluable energy wastage. Subsequent analysis of spreadsheets containing meter readings should be undertaken on a regular basis and compared against industry norms,(bench marking compares the company's performance to that of competitors or the optimum performer), yardsticks and also any targets that the company have set.

All energy sources need to be looked at, the type, where it is used on site and its cost. The environmental review should have identified the main sources of inefficiency and objectives and targets set. A further energy audit will give a clearer picture of energy consumption on site and will also help establish less serious issues that can be tackled later.


An example of an objective:

To reduce energy costs and the impact of energy use on the environment through the conservation of energy and more efficient energy use.

The site should be assessed to identify the areas where the most feasible energy efficiency measures can be implemented. Examples of measures both low cost and longer term will be looked at later.


Method for identifying energy efficiency action areas

Even though an environmental review / meter reading should have identified the areas of high wastage, a more detailed site inspection will enable the company to see where energy efficiency measures can be implemented in more detail, should the review have not been comprehensive enough. It may be useful to use methods such as Sankey Diagrams - these show Input = Losses + Output. All energy flows should add up to 100%. This can identify areas of any unexplained energy usage.