What are the best sustainable energy management practices?

The energy audit must include a precise analysis of the energy actually needed under the different conditions that characterize the consumption of a home, a business or a facility. The analysis of real needs will then be put into relation with current consumption and with current forms, rules and supply costs. Thanks to the energy audit we are in a position to define the objectives to aim for in order to achieve the best relationship between consumption, purchases and possible self-production

An energy audit is a methodical evaluation of energy usage in a home, business, or facility. It pinpoints sources, amounts, and costs of energy consumption, highlighting potential savings and improvement opportunities. This process aids in prioritizing energy efficiency projects, estimating return on investment, and qualifying for incentives or rebates. Energy audits can be conducted independently through a simple assessment or by hiring a professional energy auditor for a more comprehensive analysis.

There are three types of energy audits: walk-through, target, and detailed. The type you need will depend on the outcome you are trying to achieve. A detailed audit is the most suitable for looking at energy.

Energy efficiency must be the joint result of strategy and tactics. If a good energy audit has been carried out, there are the conditions for designing a real energy efficiency strategy with objectives and means. but in reality it is necessary to act with a daily tactic, discover the smallest wastes and eliminate them and discover how to change consumption habits to consume at times when costs are lower. Strategy is the key to transform the relationship with energy. Tactic is the way to shape habits and means

Energy efficiency entails utilizing less energy to achieve equivalent or improved outcomes. This practice encompasses upgrading equipment, appliances, lighting, and insulation, as well as modifying behavioural patterns. By adopting energy efficiency measures such as installing LED bulbs, programmable thermostats, and smart power strips, and incorporating habits like turning off or unplugging devices when not in use, individuals and businesses can reduce energy bills, extend the lifespan of assets, and enhance comfort and productivity.

Renewable energy must be interpreted in all respects as a new corporate resource. It is a resource that is the result of important investments and that generates value if it is managed with extreme care and precision. The very choice of which energy(s) to adopt is a strategic choice, but the way in which energy is used is even more strategic. Renewables are effective to the extent that the company adopts a renewable consumption chain, i.e. a consumption that strategically aligns with the production capacity of renewables

Renewable energy involves utilizing sources replenished by natural processes, such as solar, wind, hydro, biomass, and geothermal, to generate power. Adopting renewable energy can contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, diversifying energy supplies, and fostering local development and innovation. Examples of renewable energy systems include solar panels, wind turbines, hydroelectric dams, biogas digesters, and geothermal heat pumps. Individuals and businesses can either install their own renewable energy systems or opt to purchase green power from utilities or third-party providers.

Energy monitors work by adding a sensor to your energy meter, which monitors your usage by measuring the current flowing through your business energy meter. The sensor will have a transmitter attached, too, which will wirelessly relay the information to your display monitor. These monitors are only a base line, together with software, applications or services you can get a whole picture of your entire energy consumption throughout a relative period.

Three key sustainable energy management practices, Efficient Resource Use: Implement energy-efficient technologies and practices to optimize resource utilization. Renewable Energy Integration: Prioritize the use of renewable sources like solar and wind energy to reduce reliance on non-renewable options. Monitoring and Analysis: Regularly monitor energy consumption, analyze data, and adjust strategies to continuously improve sustainable energy management practices.

It is important to highlight that while Energy Efficiency, Renewables, Demand Response, and Energy Monitoring are highly relevant practices in the energy management field, they are not a standalone solution. Besides these practices, your organization must prioritize training of energy managers and their continuous monitoring and challenging of the facility energy use. Training empowers employees to make informed energy-saving decisions, fostering a culture of energy conservation. While continuous monitoring, coupled with data analysis, enables identification of energy inefficiencies and timely interventions, dedicated energy managers at the facility are key to ensure that energy efficiency actions and implementations remain a top priority.

Prioritizing energy efficiency stands as one of the most immediate and impactful strategies for reducing a corporation's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, particularly in relation to Scope 1 and 2 emissions. These scopes are intricately tied to a corporation's energy consumption and sources. By optimizing energy use and transitioning to cleaner energy sources, companies can directly diminish their carbon footprint. This approach not only aligns with sustainability goals but also contributes to cost savings and enhances overall operational resilience.

You may also consider engagement practices such as training employees on energy conservation practices and the importance of reducing energy consumption. Engage them in energy-saving initiatives and encourage behavior changes.