ABSTRACT
Organizational energy management has traditionally adapted a project-oriented focus with success determined by the number of projects completed. While successful energy management projects must be part of a viable energy management program, organizations must also broaden their focus to enable energy management to adapt to constantly changing business environments and organizational objectives, achieve the desired results, and sustain those achievements. A management system refers to the steps an organization takes to manage its activities in order for the products or services it provides to meet established internal and external objectives. Following the model developed for quality and environmental management, a management system for energy based on the plan–do–check–act cycle of continuous improvement is presented and discussed in this section. The progression of energy management systems is traced from several separate national standards to a single, universally accepted international standard known as ISO 50001. The evolution of energy management practice from no effective management to a comprehensive management system standard is followed. A presentation detailing the parts of ISO 50001 and how they contribute to improved management is offered. The benefits of structured energy management and governmental incentive programs to promote ISO 50001 implementation are also offered.
