Managing your energy use

Effective energy management starts with the publication of your energy management policy, which applies across your whole organisation.

What does an energy policy cover?

An energy policy sets out in writing the way a business will use energy, and what energy saving targets it hopes to achieve. It outlines:

• the ways in which the business will meet targets
• what contributions are expected from managers and staff
• plans for continuing to improve energy efficiency in the future

Most energy policies have two parts, part A and part B.

Energy policy Part A

This is a high level statement that sets out the energy saving principles that the business is committed to. It confirms that proposed energy saving policies and actions have the full support of senior management and it provides an overall framework for delivering energy savings.

Energy policy Part B

This is a much more detailed document. It sets out specific targets and outlines how these will be achieved. It includes details of the measures that will be taken and who is responsible for making sure they happen. It should also set out when progress will be reviewed.

Implementing your energy policy

Implementing your energy policy involves:

• deciding on specific actions to take to save energy
• putting these actions into an order of priority

It's important to set realistic and achievable energy saving targets, eg if your business commits to a percentage reduction in carbon emissions, make sure that this is achievable.

Once senior management has agreed the targets you can produce an action plan. This sets out in practical terms the tasks to be completed.