2. Measure, monitor and analyze

2.1 Monitoring and measurement

The key characteristics of an energy management system must be monitored and measured. These key characteristics include:

• The outputs from energy planning including action plans.
• Relation between significant energy uses and driving factors.
• Energy performance indicators.
• Effectiveness of the action plans in achieving objectives and targets.
• Monitoring of the effectiveness of operational control.

In setting up monitoring and measurement system, the organization should answer the following questions:

• How will usage in SEUs be measured and recorded?
• Who will be responsible for the monitoring, measurement and analysis?
• How can I relate the monitored driving factors with my energy use?
• What monitoring frequency do my operations require?

Monitoring and measurement doesn’t automatically imply energy metering. It is not necessary to install energy meters on all machinery, equipment or on a complete production line.

Examples of energy instruments to be monitored can include:

• Electrical power meters
• Steam flow meters
• Condenser pressure
• Room temperature

In order to determine the cost-effectiveness of metering the cost should be weighed against the estimated energy cost savings. Metering costs include costs of: design, purchase, installation, operation and maintenance and calibration of the meters, data storage and analysis of the data Alternative ways to monitor and measure energy use, instead of permanent metering, are instant metering with hand held meters output.