Lessons learned from the 2023 CLEAResult Energy Forum decarbonization session
The 2023 CLEAResult Energy Forum Conference featured some of the top minds in our industry, and our decarbonization breakout session was no exception. Jeanette Staden of OG&E joined CLEAResult’s Deron Neblett and Keri Macklin to discuss Strategic Energy Management (SEM) and organizational change. They shared their experience and advice on promoting engagement among leadership and employees, as well as tips to enhance energy savings and reduce Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions.
Here is what you need to know:
Take a holistic view of energy management
Moving beyond isolated, project-based thinking is critical to make substantial strides in reducing energy use and your business’ carbon footprint. SEM, also referred to as Continuous Energy Improvement (CEI), is a high-touch, multifaceted approach to lowering energy use by identifying, prioritizing and implementing operational and behavioral changes. Organizations should designate an internal energy team to manage the process and instill a cultural shift in attitudes about decreasing energy use.
Internal engagement is key
In addition to making equipment and operational changes, implementing an effective SEM program requires an engaged workforce. From the outset, it is essential to obtain commitment from leadership and active involvement from employees for optimal results. Spend some time incorporating strategies such as contests and group activities to motivate teams and encourage participation. Ensuring everyone understands the overall goal of reducing energy use and GHG emissions will make communication more effective during the process.
Layer in demand-side management
Additional savings can be realized by incorporating Integrated Demand Side Management (IDSM). This strategy focuses on how and when energy can be used most effectively through a combination of approaches like energy conservation, renewable energy solutions and automated energy management systems. IDSM not only helps businesses further trim energy costs, it also plays a key role in bolstering the overall reliability of the electrical grid. Data from the measures employed should be reviewed regularly, so adjustments can be made to ensure everything works together harmoniously and efficiently.
Win over skeptics by speaking their language
An audience member asked how to enroll organizations that are resistant to these types of changes. Here are some tips to help get people on board:
- Use language and concepts that are familiar to your specific audience. For example, when introducing energy-saving strategies to a manufacturing company, communicate using terminology that its people already understand -- such as “continuous improvement” and “quality control.”
- Lay out a structured approach for reducing energy use and GHG emissions, so employees can better understand the plan.
- Tie energy-saving strategies to cost savings – a concept everyone can understand – and share projections.
In summary, SEM is a comprehensive method of strategically integrating various measures over time to optimize the efficiency of energy-saving projects. Management can accomplish its energy goals by sharing them with the organization, then incorporating training to align employee behavior with the goals. Organizations should regularly monitor the effectiveness of their energy-saving measures and make adjustments as needed to optimize results.