This is a very critical part of the EnMS. It is the part where you operate your energy using equipment and where there is often significant opportunity to affect the organisations energy performance. Many organisations assume that if they purchase energy efficient equipment then their operations will automatically be energy efficient. This has been repeatedly found not to be the case. In fact in many cases less efficient equipment operated well will consume less energy than more efficient equipment operated badly.

The procurement or purchasing process in your organisation has an important effect on both the amount of energy you use and on its cost. It affects your usage through the purchase of energy efficient products, services and equipment and your cost both through reduced usage and through energy purchase costs.

You should consider this opportunity in preparing your purchasing methodologies. Many organisations do not have a systematic approach to this important area.