New survey highlights lack of energy strategies across organisations

A new DNV GL - Business Assurance international survey of more than 1500 professionals across Europe, the Americas and Asia shows that most companies lack a clear strategy, concrete targets and a systematic approach to energy efficiency, but do see the cost benefits of energy efficiency measures.

"Across the board we see commitment to energy efficiency driven by cost control, and most organisations are only scratching the surface, not tapping into their full potential," says Faith Beaty, president of DNV GL – Business Assurance, North America.

Management

Energy efficiency is a key topic at a personal and societal level, as well as from a business perspective. 57% of the companies surveyed have an energy efficiency strategy and 55% set measurable goals, with percentages around 10 points higher for businesses belonging to the energy intensive sectors.

However, energy efficiency is still a generic ambition, with goals mainly set at company level. Very few set concrete targets on activities, even among energy intensive firms.

Sustainability

67% of the companies surveyed have invested in energy efficiency initiatives during the last three years, and costs are driving sustainability. 46% stated that they invested in energy efficiency measures in order to obtain more efficient tools, or to reduce energy consumption and costs. Companies are making concrete efforts in order to optimise their energy management, but without a long term view. Only 26% have an energy management plan. More sophisticated initiatives such as staff training, having energy managers or performing audits and assessments, play a minor role.

A clear strategy and a systematic approach are lacking. Less than half of the companies that have undertaken efficiency activities are able to quantify the energy savings obtained.

Obstacles and advantages

Management awareness is not a problem, mentioned by only 18% of the companies in the survey. Economic constraints are the main obstacles preventing companies from making more progress, including other priorities, expensive implementation, lack of returns and focus on short term results.

A systematic approach would help firms make the right decisions and get a proper return on their investments. However, the benefits are already perceived as exceeding the costs, especially in terms of savings.

Outlook

Looking ahead, companies are expected to increase their commitment to energy efficiency by taking a more mature approach. Activities related to cost and consumption reduction will remain the most common actions, but there will also be significant increases in more strategic actions such as staff training, identification of energy savings potentials and preparation of energy management plans.

Adapted from press release by Rosalie Starling

Read the article online at: https://www.hydrocarbonengineering.com/the-environment/25062015/new-survey-highlights-lack-of-energy-strategies-across-organisations-986/