The Role of Benchmarking in Promoting Strong Energy Management Systems

Abstract

The significance of formalized energy management practices and programs in driving and sustaining energy efficiency improvements within the industrial sector has become more widely recognized over the past several years. The release of the ISO 50001 energy management standard will also further elevate the role of energy management systems. For over the past 10 years, the US EPA's ENERGY STAR Commercial and Industrial program have focused on promoting and supporting the development of strong corporate management programs. A key aspect of facilitating the establishment of energy management programs has been the development of benchmarking tools that help companies evaluate the energy performance and practices. This paper will examine some of the lessons learned in developing both quantitative and qualitative energy management benchmarking tools and the importance of establishing good energy performance indicators. The paper will examine the pros and cons of different types of quantitative energy performance benchmarks. The value of qualitative benchmarking tools to gauge management practices will also be discussed. Lastly, recommendations for how to further the development energy benchmarks shall be presented.