Maximizing energy savings with enterprise energy management systems

As the field of energy management matures, so do the tools and best practices available to ensure that the energy required by an organization is used in the most efficient way possible. In the past, energy management practices consisted primarily of replacing inefficient equipment and then using any number of methods to estimate the savings gained. Studies performed by the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Texas State Energy Conservation Office (SECO) have shown, however, that energy savings can be dramatically increased and maintained over time by adopting and implementing consistent energy management practices and recognized measurement and verification procedures. As energy management standards and best practices begin to see widespread adoption, the information systems required to support them will play a crucial role in their implementation and success. These enterprise energy management (EEM) systems can provide the detailed data and analysis capabilities required to ensure energy management strategies and conservation measures are on track throughout an organization. Organizations can apply EEM systems to gain a comprehensive understanding of current energy performance, plan and select cost-effective energy conservation measures, track performance of measures that have been implemented and verify the savings realized.