13 - Assessment and Planning

Abstract

This chapter discusses the methods for tracking energy usage, savings, and investment. The energy management requires much more than technology. It depends on the motivation and training of personnel. The economics are always critical. The regulations and codes can provide barriers to or incentives for energy management programs. Once a program has been initiated, it should be reviewed and assessed periodically. The particular thought should be given to planning, both for the energy management program and to the new or the expanded facilities that can be involved. Once an energy management program has been initiated, a continuing assessment should be carried out to evaluate the benefits of the program and to determine if changes are required. A particularly important parameter for businesses is the impact on corporate profits. The experience has shown that energy waste is as much influenced by the attitude, motivation, and training of personnel as it is by the inefficiency of equipment and systems. In some cases institutional barriers, such as regulations, taxes, or codes, can discourage efficient energy use.