An energy management system (EnMS) provides a framework for managing energy use and promoting continuous improvement.

Industrial energy efficiency can be greatly enhanced by more effectively managing plant operations and processes. Experience shows that companies and sites with stronger energy management programs gain greater improvements in energy efficiency than those that lack good procedures and management practices focused on the continuous improvement of energy performance.

An energy management system (EnMS) provides a framework for managing energy use and promoting continuous improvement. It helps with assessment, planning, and evaluation procedures, all of which are critical to realizing and sustaining the potential energy efficiency gains of new technologies or operational changes.

A sound energy management program is required to create a foundation for positive change and provide guidance on managing energy throughout an organization. Continuous improvements to energy efficiency therefore typically only occur where there is strong organizational commitment. The key elements of a strategic EnMS are depicted in the figure on the right. 

There are a number of guidelines aimed at helping companies to establish an effective EnMS - including from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (link is external) (US EPA) and the recent ISO 50000 series (link is external) by the International Standards Organization. Although the details differ, these guidelines promote continuous improvement of energy efficiency through:
 

• organizational practices and policies;
• team development;
• planning and evaluation;
• tracking and measurement;
• communication and employee engagement and;
• evaluation and corrective measures (US EPA, 2010).

While an EnMS can help organizations achieve greater savings through a focus on continuous improvement in energy efficiency, it does not guarantee energy savings or carbon dioxide reductions. To achieve cost savings, an EnMS must be combined with effective plant energy benchmarking and appropriate plant improvements. 

This page will soon be updated with examples of EnMS implementation in the ammonia industry.

[1]

International Energy Agency (IEA), 2007. Tracking Industrial Energy Efficiency and CO₂ Emissions.

[2]

International Fertilizers Association (IFA), 2009. Energy Efficiency and CO₂ Emissions in Ammonia Production, 2008-2009 Summary Report.

[3]

International Fertilizers Association (IFA) (2009). Fertilizers, Climate Change and Enhancing Agricultural Productivity Sustainably. Paris, France.

[4]

International Energy Agency (IEA) (2012). Energy Technology Perspectives 2012, Pathways to a Clean Energy System. Paris, France. p.329.

[5]

International Energy Agency (IEA) (2009). Chemical and Petrochemical Sector: Potential of Best Practice Technology and Other Measures for Improving Energy Efficiency. IEA Information Paper on energy efficiency indicators. Paris, France.