Contents
What is ISO 50001?
ISO 50001 is a standard that outlines the necessary requirements for planning, implementing, maintaining, and continuously improving an energy management system (EnMS). This structured approach enables organizations to systematically document, review, audit, analyze, and optimize the performance of their EnMS, considering specific metrics like energy efficiency, consumption, and usage.
These requirements encompass a comprehensive range of aspects related to energy management systems. This includes the policies and procedures used, the measurement and documentation of energy efficiency, and the design and procurement of equipment, processes, and personnel involved in the EnMS.
Overview of Energy Management and ISO 50001
Energy management involves documenting all energy flows within a company, assessing the energy efficiency of systems, facilities, processes, and activities.
ISO 50001 aims to continuously enhance energy efficiency through both technical measures and strategic organizational approaches. The goal is to implement systematic and long-term improvements in energy performance across the organization.
ISO 50001 provides a framework with specifications for systematic energy management, including requirements and guidelines for establishing and maintaining energy management systems in companies and other organizations.
Objectives of the ISO 50001 standard
The ISO definition includes the development of the necessary systems and processes for improved energy efficiency. The objectives of the standard include recording energy flows (energy consumers, energy sources and energy use) and their future management. Other objectives of an energy management system are:
- Developing new energy efficiency potential
- Savings in energy costs
- Reduction of greenhouse gases, such as CO2 emissions
- Reduction of further environmental impacts through energy consumption (environmental and climate protection)
Energy management for SMEs
Starting from 2013, demonstrating compliance with an energy management system like EN ISO 50001 or another environmental management system as per the EMAS Regulation became mandatory for peak compensation under the Electricity and Energy Tax Act.
For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) following the EU definition, fulfilling an energy audit (EN 16247 standard) or implementing an “alternative system for improving energy efficiency” outlined in Annex 2 of the Peak Compensation Efficiency Ordinance (SpaEfV) may suffice. However, beginning in 2015, non-SMEs must obtain certification in accordance with the ISO 50001 standard or provide proof of EMaS registration.
