Step 5. Check that your EnMS is working effectively

5.1 Check energy performance

There are two aspects to checking energy performance. Firstly, performance should be routinely monitored and secondly, performance should be reported to senior management and also to others concerned with the energy performance of the organization.

5.2 Check the EnMS

This means checking that everyone is doing their part in operating the EnMS. It means checking that all activities in the energy manual are being completed and that each person with a role and responsibility is completing their role effectively.

This checking activity is normally referred to as an internal audit of the EnMS.

During these audits every aspect of the EnMS is checked and where a requirement is not being met it is identified as a non-conformity and the cause is identified and corrective action taken to prevent a recurrence.

5.3 Check the results of energy saving opportunities

In developing the ESO list (section 3.6), you have decided how the actual savings will be measured and verified after the action is complete. You need to complete this measurement and verification.

5.4 Management Review

The purpose of the management review is to:

  1. Demonstrate to the top management how well the EnMS is working.
  2. Highlight problem areas where there may be barriers to improvement.
  3. Continue to build support for the system.
  4. Propose and agree plans for the coming period, usually the next year.

The management review should first be held soon after completion of the initial planning phase and annually (typically) thereafter.

It should be attended by all the members of the senior management team and the energy manager.

5.5 Continual improvement tools

Continual improvement is a fundamental aspect of the EnMS. This means improving the EnMS itself and also continuing to identify and implement energy saving ideas