Energy Management Systems

WHAT IS AN ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM?

An energy management system is the systematic practice of tracking, analyzing, and acting on energy data and organizational priorities to enhance productivity. Integrated directly into daily business operations, it empowers organizations to improve competitiveness and meet business targets. Rather than treating energy as a fixed overhead cost, this approach fosters a culture of continual improvement. By establishing formal policies and procedures, organizations can reduce waste, lower costs, and develop a competitive advantage in the marketplace.

WHAT IS ISO 50001?

ISO 50001 is a voluntary specification developed with U.S. leadership that provides organizations with a structured framework to implement an Energy Management System. This flexible framework utilizes the Plan-Do-Check-Act model for continual improvement and is easily adapted to existing business practices and objectives. Detailed studies show that manufacturing facilities that implement an ISO 50001 energy management system typically achieve 4% annual energy savings year-over-year for more than a decade. If your organization is already certified to ISO 50001 the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) offers recognition celebrating this accomplishment: ISO 50001 Certification Recognition.

• Learn More: Visit the ISO 50001 Technical Assistance Group (TAG) for detailed technical guidance and information on how your voice can influence updated versions of ISO 50001 and other related efforts.

WHAT IS 50001 READY?

50001 Ready is a DOE program that offers a free, flexible suite of tools and resources to help organizations implement an ISO 50001-based energy management system. The program provides a practical path to deep and persistent energy cost savings without the need for expensive third-party audits. Organizations that self-attest to completing the program requirements receive formal recognition from the DOE as being "50001 Ready."

• Learn More: Visit the DOE 50001 Ready home page to see how this program can benefit your company.

WHAT IS STRATEGIC ENERGY MANAGEMENT (SEM)?

Strategic Energy Management (SEM) is a holistic approach to energy efficiency that prioritizes systematic changes in culture, operations, and maintenance over capital-intensive projects. Many utilities, states, and municipalities offer free SEM programs to eligible companies. Leading SEM program administrators, implementors, and others partner with DOE to integrate 50001 Ready resources into their offerings. This collaboration provides a standardized engagement platform that helps organizations transition from one-off efficiency projects to long-term, systematic energy performance. 

• Learn More: Visit the DOE 50001 Ready Partner Program webpage to learn how you can benefit from DOE support and resources as you develop an SEM program or seek to grow your business supporting companies implementing an ISO 50001-based energy management system.

Questions? Explore our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) to learn more about 50001 Ready or contact the 50001 Ready Help Desk for direct assistance.