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Energy Management:Austrian Standards EN 16001 | |
Being able to lower energy spending allows the reallocation of assets to core business tasks. The importance of a careful use of energy at a time of rising energy costs and diminishing natural resources continues to rise. Systematic energy management helps to lower energy costs in the long run. The effects on business profits may therefore prove to be remarkable. After all, every measure addressing the reduction of energy spending secures the business in question by making available the capital needed for bolstering operative tasks. The energy management system in place in your business may be certified according to EN 16001. The certificate issued upon the successful completion of the audit procedure proves that an independent and objective institute, such as TUV AUSTRIA, inspected the company concerned and found that it had met all requirements of a modern management system. Benefits of a successful energy management system continuous identification of energy saving potentialities responsible employment of energy (efficiency with regards to use and spending) Search for renewable / alternative energy resources - heat recovery, waste heat recovery, solar energy etc.) Raising awareness among and training of employees (i.e. taking care to switch off lights, power down idle equipment, dial down air conditioning systems, ecologic driving etc.)
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Good energy management only works if the entire company is committed and actively involved. Austrian Standards EN 16001 Basics EN 16001 defines a precise framework for the introduction and optimisation of corporate energy management. There are, however, no absolute requirements regarding a company's energy-efficiency behaviour. The standard supports businesses during the layout stage of the continuous optimisation process, which leads to a more efficient use of energy. This furthers the introduction of an energy monitoring plan and the performance of energy analyses. The requirements of this European standard can be adapted to or integrated in existing management systems in fields such as quality, environment protection, occupational safety, finance and risk management.
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Energy policy is one of the basic corporate guidelines. Once an energy policy has been laid down, the planing stage sees the identification and inspection of energy aspects, the analysis of legal or other duties, as well as the definition of strategic and operational goals. The introduction and implementation of energy management occurs analogously to other management systems (quality, environment protection or safety). The establisghed procedures "Inspection and corrective measures, monitoring and measuring, preventive measures, internal audits and management review" will be employed.
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The four steps of implementation Collect, record and present data Company energy currents are recorded in regular intervals and thus highlighted. Particularly the first review should be conducted with great care to reap as great a benefit as possible. An exacting, proper collection of data is the foundation for every calculation of profitability, hence special diligence is crucial. Data evaluation and analysis The evaluation and analyses of the recorded status quo reveal potential starting points for improvement measures. Setting key figures and benchmarks in relation to other companies provides valuable indications for existing savings potentialities. Definition and realisation of measures The energy scheme evolves out of the analysis stage. It should be put into effect in a synchronised manner. The Austrian Chamber of Commerce, for instance, assumes that this might allow savings of 10% to 15% without resorting to cost-intensive interventions. Check for proof of success and communicate the results The amount of energy saved as a consequence of conscientious energy management should be plainly presented to everyone. This ensures the continued success of the measures already taken and doubles as an incentive for employees to take further steps.
Inquiries: Dipl.-Ing. Dr. Jürgen HAIN TUV AUSTRIA CERT GMBH Lunzerstraße 89 4030 Linz Phone: +43 (0)732 65 55 58-8419 e-mail: jue@tuv.at
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