The International Standards Organisation has published new guidance on a phased approach to energy management.

Recognising that some companies may not have the resources to implement a complete system in one go, ISO 50005, Energy management systems – Guidelines for a phased implementation, provides guidance for a step-by-step process, helping organisations to more easily allocate the appropriate resources and priority levels based on their needs and capacities.

Nathanael Harfst, joint leader of the group of experts that developed the standard, said there are many benefits from starting with a phased approach to something as weighty as an energy management system, including generating quick wins to motivate staff and being able to prioritise activities so that they build on or complement each other best.

“An energy management system is designed to establish the systems and processes required to improve energy performance, but, being a huge task, it can seem daunting and ultimately prohibitive, particularly to small businesses,” he said.

“Taking a phased approach enables organisations to start small and build progressively based on needs and resources, allowing them to reap benefits right from the outset.”

ISO 50005 outlines a phased implementation approach using 12 core elements of ISO 50001, Energy management systems – Requirements with guidance for use. The standard is based on a maturity model consisting of four levels, with Level 1 offering the basics for those with little energy management experience, building progressively towards a level that is consistent with conformity to ISO 50001.

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