Action Plan for Energy Saving Program

When everyone today is thinking about sustainability of resources, Energy Star provides us with an action plan which will not only help in reducing the burden on earth but also save money. In 2003, with the help of Energy Star, businesses and consumers saved more than $8 billion in energy costs while reducing greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to that of 18 million cars.

The following seven steps provide a map for establishing an energy savings program:

1. Make a commitment

No matter the size or type of organization, the common element of successful energy management is commitment. Organizations make a commitment to allocate staff and funding to achieve continuous improvement.

To establish their energy program, leading organizations form a dedicated energy team and institute an energy policy.

2. Assess performance

Assessing performance is the periodic process of evaluating energy use for all major facilities and functions in the organization and establishing a baseline for measuring future results of efficiency efforts.

3. Set goals

Well-stated goals guide daily decision-making and are the basis for tracking and measuring progress. Communicating and posting goals can motivate staff to support energy management efforts throughout the organization.

4. Create an action plan

Successful organizations use a detailed action plan to ensure a systematic process to implement energy performance measures. Unlike the energy policy, the action plan is regularly updated, most often on an annual basis, to reflect recent achievements, changes in performance, and shifting priorities.

5. Implement action plan

People can make or break an energy program. Gaining the support and cooperation of key people at different levels within the organization is an important factor for successful implementation of the action plan in many organizations.

Reaching your goals frequently depends on the awareness, commitment and capability of the people who will implement the projects defined in your action plan.

6. Evaluate progress

Evaluating progress includes formal review of energy use data and the activities carried out as part of the action plan when compared to your performance goals.

Evaluation results and information gathered during the formal review process is used by many organizations to create new action plans, identify best practices and set new performance goals.

7. Recognize achievements

Providing and seeking recognition for energy-management achievements is a proven step for sustaining momentum and support for your program.

Providing recognition to those who helped the organization achieve these results motivates staff and employees and brings positive exposure to the energy-management program