Vert Energy Group

Tag: energy consumption reduction

  • 5 Crucial Energy KPIs to Monitor for Effective Business Energy Management

    5 Crucial Energy KPIs to Monitor for Effective Business Energy Management

    Introduction 

    In the ever-evolving landscape of today’s business world, mastering energy management stands as a pivotal cornerstone for success. As the price tags on energy soar and environmental consciousness takes center stage, businesses face an urgent need to embrace astute energy management practices. It’s no longer just about financial savings; it’s a commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Join us in this blog post expedition as we uncover five indispensable Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that serve as guiding beacons for businesses striving to fine-tune their energy management strategies. 

    Energy Consumption

    Energy consumption refers to the amount of energy used by a business to power its operations. Monitoring energy consumption is a fundamental KPI for effective energy management. By tracking and measuring this metric, businesses gain insights into their energy usage patterns and identify areas for improvement.  

    To track and measure energy consumption, businesses can utilize smart meters, submeters, or energy management software. These tools provide real-time data on energy consumption, allowing businesses to identify peak usage periods, energy-intensive processes, and wasteful practices. By implementing energy-efficient measures such as equipment upgrades, optimized systems, and employee awareness campaigns, businesses can significantly reduce energy consumption, resulting in substantial cost savings.  

    Reducing energy consumption not only has financial benefits but also contributes to sustainability. By conserving energy, businesses can reduce their carbon footprint and minimize their impact on the environment. Additionally, implementing energy-efficient technologies and practices enhances a company’s reputation as an environmentally responsible organization.

    Energy Intensity

    Monitoring Energy Intensity

    Energy intensity is another crucial KPI for effective energy management. It measures the amount of energy used per unit of production or activity. By calculating and monitoring energy intensity, businesses can identify inefficiencies in their operations and take steps to optimize energy usage.  

    To calculate energy intensity, businesses need to divide their total energy consumption by the specific production output or activity level. This KPI helps businesses identify energy-intensive processes or areas that require optimization. By investing in energy-efficient equipment, streamlining processes, and utilizing automation technologies, businesses can significantly improve their energy intensity and operate more sustainably.  

    Moreover, improving energy intensity often leads to increased productivity and operational efficiency. By identifying and addressing energy-intensive processes, businesses can streamline operations, reduce waste, and enhance overall productivity. This not only reduces energy costs but also improves competitiveness within the industry.  

    Energy Cost

    Energy costs play a vital role in the financial health of a business. It refers to the monetary value of energy consumed by a business. Monitoring energy cost is crucial for effective energy management as it directly impacts a company’s profitability. By analyzing energy cost KPIs, businesses can identify areas of energy inefficiency and make informed decisions to reduce their energy expenses.  

    To track and analyze energy cost KPIs, businesses should regularly review their utility bills, identify energy-saving opportunities, and benchmark their energy consumption against industry standards. Implementing energy audits, conducting thorough analyses of energy consumption patterns, and considering alternative energy suppliers are effective strategies for tracking and analyzing energy cost KPIs.  

    Emphasizing energy cost management creates a culture of cost-consciousness within an organization. By actively managing energy costs, businesses can identify cost-saving opportunities, optimize energy usage, and improve overall financial performance. The funds saved can be reinvested in other areas of the business, such as research and development or employee training, leading to innovation and growth.

    Greenhouse Gas Emissions

    Greenhouse gas emissions, such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4), are the primary contributors to climate change. These emissions are closely linked to energy consumption, making greenhouse gas emissions a key KPI for effective energy management. By tracking and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.  

    Monitoring greenhouse gas emissions involves quantifying and reporting the carbon footprint associated with a business’s energy consumption. This process allows businesses to identify areas where energy efficiency measures can help reduce emissions. By implementing energy-efficient practices, switching to renewable energy sources, optimizing transportation logistics, and promoting employee engagement in sustainability initiatives, businesses can effectively reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.  

    Reducing greenhouse gas emissions not only mitigates climate change but also enhances a company’s reputation. Consumers are increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of the products and services they use. By actively reducing emissions, businesses can attract environmentally conscious customers and gain a competitive advantage in the market.

    Renewable Energy Usage

    Usage of Renewable Energy

    Renewable energy usage refers to the proportion of energy obtained from sustainable sources such as solar, wind, hydro, or geothermal power. Incorporating renewable energy into business operations is not only an environmentally responsible choice but also a sound business decision.  

    By monitoring and increasing renewable energy usage, businesses can reduce their dependence on fossil fuels, minimize greenhouse gas emissions, and contribute to a cleaner energy landscape. Installing solar panels, procuring renewable energy certificates, and exploring power purchase agreements with renewable energy providers are some ways businesses can integrate renewable energy sources into their operations.  

    Embracing renewable energy offers several benefits for businesses. Firstly, it helps reduce reliance on volatile fossil fuel markets, providing greater energy security and stability. Secondly, utilizing renewable energy sources often results in long-term cost savings. While the initial investment may be higher, renewable energy systems tend to have lower operational and maintenance costs over their lifespan. Lastly, incorporating renewable energy aligns businesses with growing consumer preferences for sustainable practices, attracting environmentally conscious customers and enhancing brand reputation.

    Conclusion 

    In conclusion, monitoring energy KPIs is crucial for effective energy management in businesses. By monitoring and optimizing these five crucial KPIs – energy consumption, energy intensity, energy cost, greenhouse gas emissions, and renewable energy usage – businesses can gain valuable insights into their energy usage patterns, identify areas for improvement, and implement effective strategies.  

    Effective energy management not only leads to cost savings but also fosters sustainability and environmental responsibility. By reducing energy consumption, improving energy intensity, controlling energy costs, minimizing greenhouse gas emissions, and embracing renewable energy, businesses can enhance their operational efficiency, reputation, and long-term success.  

    It is essential for businesses to prioritize energy management and implement strategies that improve their energy KPIs. By doing so, businesses can not only achieve financial savings and operational efficiency but also contribute to a sustainable future and make a positive impact on the environment. 

    Discover how VertPro.com can elevate your property’s energy efficiency to new heights. We are your ultimate destination for all things related to Commercial Energy Audits, Benchmark Compliance consultancy, and access to our state-of-the-art Construction Marketplace. As trailblazers in the industry, VertPro® empowers Building Owners and Property Managers across the nation with innovative SaaS technology-based solutions. From Energy Benchmarking to Energy Audits/RCx Plus, we’re dedicated to ensuring compliance with over 60 Energy Benchmarking and Energy Efficiency Laws.    

    Now is the time to seize the opportunity to maximize your property’s energy potential and value. Explore VertPro.com’s comprehensive solutions today and let us be the catalyst for the transformation your property deserves. Your energy-efficient future starts here!

  • Los Angeles energy benchmarking program

    Los Angeles energy benchmarking program

    Residents of Los Angeles have the opportunity to gain insight into their energy consumption—and their role in climate change—through energy benchmarking. A tool developed by cities like Los Angeles, it allows users to compare the performance of buildings and businesses when it comes to energy efforts and emissions tracking. This makes it easier for everyone involved to understand opportunities for improved efficiency, as well as changes that could be made on a smaller scale that drastically impacts larger-scale success. In this blog post, we take an in-depth look at how Los Angeles’s energy benchmarking program prospers and why city residents should take advantage of its offerings.

    Los Angeles Energy Benchmarking

    Los Angeles is leading the charge in revolutionizing a sustainable future through the Energy Benchmarking and Disclosure for Existing Commercial Buildings (EBEWE) program. Requiring all existing large multiple buildings to be benchmarked annually and reported to the City, EBEWE provides homeowners of these properties with full disclosure of their respective energy usage, helping them make responsible decisions toward reducing emissions.

    For example, owners can access actionable steps for lowering their building’s carbon footprint. Not only does EBEWE assist in analyzing energy trends over time and contribute to emissions reduction targets chosen by the local government, but it also serves to encourage an environmental consciousness within residential communities.

    By making energy efficiency more accessible and tangible, Los Angeles is laying down an inspiring path other cities can follow toward improving the planet’s future.

    Requirements For Los Angeles Energy Benchmarking

    Owning a commercial building in Los Angeles is a one-of-a-kind opportunity, and with that comes a unique responsibility – to comply with the city’s energy benchmarking law. This law requires detailed energy consumption data to be reported by property owners directly to the Department of Water & Power (LADWP).

    As a result, property owners have access to the Energy Star Portfolio Manager – an online database designed for convenient and efficient benchmarking. This system will generate scores for each property based on how much energy it uses compared to an associated building.

    All relevant information must be entered and properly documented by June 1st of every year, so officials can review and evaluate current usage data. By complying with this program, property owners are helping reduce energy consumption for a more sustainable future for us all!

    What Is Los Angeles Energy Benchmark Compliance?

    Energy Benchmark Compliance

    Los Angeles Energy Benchmark Compliance is a citywide initiative to improve the sustainability and energy efficiency of buildings. Through innovative energy management and reporting practices, this program helps reduce the consumption of electricity, natural gas, energy, and water in buildings, helping them meet their energy savings goals and save money. From small apartment buildings to large office towers, all commercial properties are required to comply with LA’s requirements for benchmark compliance.

    This data-driven approach ensures that building owners have accurate information on their total energy usage so they can make well-informed decisions about how best to conserve. By increasing our knowledge of how our built environment performs under real operating conditions, Los Angeles Energy Benchmark Compliance is working to ensure a more sustainable future for us all.

    How Does Los Angeles Benchmarking Work?

    Benchmarking in Los Angeles is designed to help improve the performance of companies in the region. The process involves collecting and analyzing data on key indicators, such as capabilities, procedures, processes, and costs associated with a company’s operations.

    Companies then compare their results against others within their own industry or compare them to a group of peers. These comparisons are used to create goals that lead to improvements through better practices and more efficient practices over time.

    As part of the benchmarking process, Los Angeles businesses use cost-benefit analysis to identify how changes can be implemented quickly and profitably. In other words, benchmarking provides businesses with an opportunity to imitate proven practices from peer companies in order to achieve greater success.

    Who Is Required To Comply With The LA Energy Benchmarking Law?

    Since the enactment of the LA Energy Benchmarking Law, numerous organizations have been required to abide by its regulations. Any non-residential building exceeding 20,000 square feet must comply, as well as any multifamily space that has five or more units and meets certain criteria.

    Furthermore, any residential building with over 20 units must follow the law. All participants must regularly report their energy data so that their progress can be tracked over time as a measure of efficiency and improvement. Adherence to the LA Energy Benchmarking Law is not just a civic duty, but an important step toward environmental sustainability and preservation.

    Benefits Of LA Energy Benchmarking

    Here are the benefits of LA energy benchmarking:

    Improved Sustainability

    Energy benchmarking helps identify areas for improvement in energy efficiency, enabling organizations to better understand their environmental impact and reduce their carbon footprint. Benchmarking also allows companies to track progress against established sustainability goals.

    Cost Savings

    By understanding where energy is being used or wasted, benchmarking can help organizations identify cost-saving opportunities. This information can be used to develop more efficient systems and practices, resulting in greater savings on energy bills.

    Improved Compliance

    LA’s benchmarking program requires the tracking and reporting of energy use data, which helps companies stay compliant with local ordinances and regulations.

    Increased Awareness

    Energy benchmarking helps foster a culture of energy efficiency within organizations. By understanding and tracking their energy use, employees can become more aware of how their practices affect greenhouse gas emissions. This awareness can help them to make better decisions and take ownership in reducing the environmental impact of their workplace.

    Increased Transparency

    Energy performance data collected through LA’s benchmarking program is available publicly, providing transparency to stakeholders and customers. This information gives customers greater insight into the sustainability of an organization, which can improve customer loyalty and trust.

    Overall, LA energy benchmarking helps organizations reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, save money on energy bills, stay compliant with local regulations and increase transparency to customers. With the benefits of LA energy benchmarking, it is easy to understand why so many organizations are becoming more committed to sustainability.

    Step-To-Step Guide On How Los Energy Benchmarking Performs

    Los energy benchmarking is a process that provides energy performance ratings for commercial and multifamily buildings based on energy consumption. This energy performance rating system helps building owners and managers track the building’s energy efficiency, compare the energy use of similar buildings, identify potential areas of improvement, and develop strategies for energy consumption reduction. The following guide outlines the steps involved in energy benchmarking for commercial and multifamily residential buildings.

    Data Collection

    The first step of energy benchmarking is to collect energy consumption data from the building’s energy utility bill, energy audit, or energy management system (EMS). This energy data can be used to determine a baseline energy performance rating.

    Benchmark Analysis

    The energy data is then analyzed to gain insights into energy use patterns and energy consumption by different building systems. This analysis helps identify energy-saving opportunities.

    Energy Performance Rating

    After analyzing the energy data, a performance rating is assigned to the building based on how efficiently it manages energy use compared with similar existing buildings.

    Develop Strategies and Action Plans

    Once energy performance ratings are established, the next step is to develop energy-saving strategies and action plans. This includes assessing energy efficiency retrofit opportunities, energy management systems upgrades, and energy policy development.

    Monitor Progress

    The energy benchmarking process should also include a periodic review of energy consumption data to ensure that energy savings goals are met. This helps identify any energy management issues that need to be addressed.

    Energy benchmarking not only provides energy performance ratings, but it also helps building owners and managers develop energy-saving strategies, track energy use patterns, and reduce energy consumption over time. By following these steps, commercial and multifamily buildings can achieve improved energy efficiency and lower energy bills.

    By utilizing energy benchmarking, commercial and multifamily buildings can not only reduce energy consumption but also save money. By making energy efficiency improvements and developing energy-saving strategies, building owners and managers can significantly reduce energy costs while providing a more comfortable living or working environment. This is why energy benchmarking is becoming increasingly popular in the commercial and multifamily building sector.

    When Is The Los Angeles Energy Benchmarking Report Due?

    Los Angeles Energy Benchmarking Report

    The Los Angeles Energy Benchmarking Report is a yearly commitment for property owners of commercial and multifamily buildings larger than 50,000 square feet and municipal buildings over 10,000 square feet of gross floor area in the city.

    Completing this report by June 1st each year provides invaluable insight into the effectiveness of energy usage, helps the Earth Engineering Center develop actionable plans towards sustainability, and gives local owners an opportunity to become part of the solution to climate change.

    Owners are therefore encouraged to submit their reports early so that more collective progress can be made in energy efficiency.

    What Are The Penalties For Non-Compliance With The Los Angeles Energy Benchmarking Law?

    The Los Angeles building Energy Benchmarking Law is an important legislation set at the city level to reduce energy use in commercial and residential buildings. What many may not know is that failure to comply or not submitting reports can result in serious consequences.

    In cases of non-compliance, the first step taken by the City of Los Angeles is a warning letter demanding corrective action – if it goes ignored, misdemeanor charges may follow along with fines up to $2,500; an amount that can easily add up with additional community service hours depending on the judge’s ruling.

    For this reason, those affected should be sure to meet all obligations outlined in the law and stay informed on any changes or notices from local authorities to avoid facing penalties for non-compliance.

    How To Submit Los Angeles Benchmarking Report?

    Submitting the Benchmarking Report for Los Angeles is simple, efficient, and green! All you need to do is create an online profile with the City of Los Angeles Performance Reporting website. Then you can easily find and submit your report in a standard online form. For easy access, you can also start the Benchmarking survey process by calling toll-free from anywhere in Southern California. Finally, if the paper is more your style, you can request a paper version of your report from their customer service department. Once your report is completed, simply mail it to their address for review and submission. Submitting the Benchmarking Report has never been easier!