EXHIBITION PREVIEW
While there is now a clear deadline for filing the next (Phase 3) Energy Savings
Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) report, other details remain unclear. EMEX 2023, which takes place at London ExCeL
from 22-23 November 2023, is the place to discover more about this and other current hot topics within the energy management space
F
or large companies, there is a six-month reprieve for filing the next (Phase 3) Energy
Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) report. Although a clear deadline is in place, 5 June 2024, other details remain unclear as the underpinning legislation isn’t expected to make its way through Parliament until at least this month. The scheme covers energy use of UK companies
employing more than 250 people with an annual turnover of greater than £44m and an annual balance sheet total greater than £38m. Companies that don’t carry out an energy audit or file a report can be fined by the Environment Agency, as well as being named and shamed. Introducing the idea behind the scheme is George
Richards, director of environmental consultancy JRP Solutions, which is a qualified ESOS lead assessor. “Previously, energy was never given priority or focus in boardrooms. A lot of energy was being wasted across UK PLC. When ESOS came in, the idea – particularly with the director having to sign off the report – was that it would be seen as an opportunity. They would be encouraged to invest in some of the opportunities and make them happen.” While in the early days this was seen as a tick-box exercise, attitudes are now changing in the face of the energy crisis and drive to net zero, he reports. Compared to the previous Phase 2 filing process,
THE ESOS ETHOS
some of the changes required for Phase 3 are minor; all data must be verifiable and evidenced, the organisational structure has to be clear and include company numbers and SIC codes, as well as an energy metric such as intensity (kWh/unit of production or per m2 of office space, for example). Companies also have to report on any energy conservation measures (ECMs) that have been carried out since Phase 2, although there is officially no obligation to actually implement them. Energy usage needs to be split between building, process and transport (including so called ‘grey fleet’ – employees’ own vehicles). And although 100% of energy must be accounted for, only 95% has to be audited – that’s up from 90% before. Data submitted needs to be 12 months’ continuous energy that includes the so-called ‘qualification date’ of 31 December 2022. One of the largest open questions actually
relates to a post-Phase 3 requirement. Between 6 June and 31 December 2024, companies must
file an action plan, the nature of which remains unclear, and will require further clarification from government, Richards says. And it’s still possible that the requirements might change, he adds, putting the company’s assessment work in regulatory limbo, and increasing costs. In JRP’s case, all of these contracts include the
audit as well as the assessment. Lead assessors carrying out the mandated review of the ESOS report are required to be approved by a trade body (see also
www.is.gd/vayiba). Richards adds: “With a site visit, the point is to get an understanding of how energy is managed, or not; to identify and look at the culture around energy. Is it important? Is it a focus? Do they have good data collection? What is the quality of the data, and metering systems? Do they have good MMT: measurement and management technologies. Do they have team meetings, and an awareness of energy?” And JRP at least follows up to help its clients
implement ECMs. He concludes: “We can investigate alternative methods for delivery... and help improve reporting, metering, data and behaviour change. That last one is a big opportunity that is often ignored or undervalued.”
EMEX 2023 With an extensive two-day programme of free-to- attend learning across four conference theatres, including a session from JRP Solutions, EMEX 2023 is the place to discover more about this and other current hot topics within the energy management space. The show is also delighted to welcome a wealth of exhibitors to the event, including JRP Solutions, showcasing the latest technological advancements across the sector. Register for your FREE place today and join the
largest gathering of energy managers and sustainability professionals in the UK. EMEX 2023, London ExCeL, 22-23 November 2023.
https://emex-2023.reg.buzz/ess
www.emexlondon.com 14 ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY SOLUTIONS - Autumn 2023
www.essmag.co.uk
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