The basic goal of an energy management program is to minimize your energy usage and environmental impact at the lowest possible cost. However, few small- and mid-size organizations have the in-house experience and resources needed to design and implement a comprehensive program. Hence the most cost-effective and timely option usually is to work with an outside expert rather than adding full-time staff. Outsourcing provides several advantages:
- Avoids the high hiring/startup and ongoing costs for an in-house energy manager
- Provides ready access to the wide range of necessary expertise – additional resources brought on as needed to handle work surges
- Enables rapid program implementation
- Ensures access to established monitoring & management tools
- Includes ongoing staff education – working with experts increases the skills of your staff
The energy cost management program you provider develops should address several distinct needs including:
- Training and incentive programs to encourage efficient associate behavior.
- Operator training to ensure optimum energy systems efficiency.
- Preventive maintenance program implementation
- Equipment addition or replacement
- Performance monitoring to quantify savings and to ensure improvements persist
- Contracting for electricity and natural gas supply to manage risk
If you are not sure where to start, contact ECMC for a quick review of your options and an assessment of which approach is best for your organization.