Take control of energy data – the hot topic at the Energy Users’ Forum
Escalating energy prices combined with pressure to reduce emissions, mean that taking control of energy consumption has never been so important. In recognition, this was the focus of the Energy Users’ Forum – an independent event supported by IMServ, the UK’s leading independent collector of energy data.
At the Ramada Encore in Milton Keynes, the October event, which is held bi-annually, brought together energy managers from some of Britain’s major private and public sector organisations.
Justin Vroone, Commercial Utility Manager from IMServ, talked through the challenges that businesses face when managing energy expenditure – a volatile energy market, estimated bills and lack of visibility of consumption. Everyone wants to reduce their energy usage and costs to benefit both the planet and their bottom line, but how do you do it?
“Energy intelligence is vital”, Justin explained. As he told the delegates, it is not enough for companies to collect information from gas, electricity and water meters – either manually or remotely through smart meters. You have to put that information into context, understand it, and use it as the basis for positive action.
“Companies with half-hourly metering have access to an accurate profile of a day’s consumption broken down over 30-minute periods. This information can be displayed simply via the web, so staff can easily see how their actions impact directly on energy usage, which helps to encourage and reinforce best practice.
“The customer now has the tools available to take control of the energy market and can use those tools to negotiate better deals with the suppliers”
Colin Simpson from traditional family brewer Fuller Smith & Turner added, “Managing energy consumption is essential, and it’s important to put the data into perspective. For businesses like ours it translates into the number of pints you need to sell to recoup the cost of wasted energy.”
Alex Moczarski, Energy Development Officer for Boots spoke about incorporating energy management into the workplace. “Everyone in the business must be made aware that energy management is a key issue, and the most enthusiastic person should be nominated as energy manager. That person should be provided with information about how each site is performing to stimulate action.”
Alex has been instrumental in driving a scheme to engage and educate employees in reducing energy consumption. He commented, “Appointing committed staff members as energy champions can be effective, as people can make a difference individually and play a role in promoting energy efficiency within the organisation.”
The Energy Users’ Forum also focused on new available energy management solutions, such as Energy DataVision (EDV), an advanced data management tool which can be used by energy managers. It enables staff to easily monitor consumption, reduce inefficiencies, verify bills and improve procurement power with suppliers.
The event was chaired by Neil Wickham, Energy Manager for Thames Valley Police. Neil is currently developing and implementing an energy policy and strategy and is involved in promoting staff energy and environmental awareness.
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