ESOS – Compulsory energy audits
New legislation currently being prepared will require companies to audit their energy usage to identify energy and carbon reductions. The Energy Saving Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) could see all businesses with more than 250 employees carry out comprehensive audits of all their energy usage, including transport. Done every four years, the first must be completed by end 2015.
Consultation has closed & DECC is reviewing responses, in preparation of the legislation. See my blog for more information.
CEOs taking note of rising energy costs
A third of chief executives and managing directors say they have taken control of energy efficiency decisions in their businesses, according to a survey by EEF and npower. Nearly all cite reducing energy use & costs as the main reasons for investing in energy efficiency. Not surprising as, since 2002, the industrial price of gas has increased by 122% and electricity by 94%. However, nearly 2/3 of the companies said that that reducing their carbon footprint also was a driver for energy efficiency activities.
New ISO 14001 on its way
ISO 14001, the international standard for Environmental Management Systems, is currently being reviewed and improved. The proposed changes will include a stronger emphasis on truly embedding sustainability into the organisation and showing leadership.
A draft international standard (DIS) is expected at the end of the year, with the final standard published in 2015. More information on the new standard, its requirements and how you should be preparing, will be in ESHCon’s next newsletter.
Thinking of certifying to ISO 14001? You may want to do it sooner rather than later, ahead of the new requirements next year. Call me for advice.
