From CEOs to sustainability managers, there’s a growing focus on using data to reduce energy consumption, improve efficiency, and enhance carbon reporting. This reflects increasing pressure on organisations to meet sustainability targets while optimising operations. Here, Claire Robinson, sales director at monitoring solutions integrator IAconnects, shares insights from the 2024 EMEX show in London about the importance of monitoring and how to get the best out of energy data.
At the EMEX show in London, I met dozens of sustainability managers, energy managers and heads of companies that were interested in improving their energy monitoring. A key takeaway from these conversations was the ongoing challenge of turning disparate data into meaningful, actionable insights.
While many organisations are gathering data, the ability to analyse and use it effectively remains a significant barrier. So, where do they start?
The consensus is clear: meaningful carbon reduction efforts begin with monitoring. Without a clear understanding of current energy usage and emissions, it’s impossible to set reduction targets or implement effective changes. Monitoring provides the baseline data needed to inform decisions and drive progress.
Despite advances in technology, many organisations still rely on manual processes for reporting and assessing energy data. The automation of reporting and alerts offers a significant opportunity to improve efficiency, streamline decision-making, and reduce the time spent on repetitive tasks.
Working together
One question I walked away from EMEX 2024 with was: Who actually owns energy and sustainability initiatives? Stakeholders span energy managers, sustainability managers, and leadership teams. The ROI of energy efficiency and sustainability initiatives benefits the entire organisation, yet clarity is often lacking on who should drive these efforts.
In reality, achieving meaningful carbon reductions requires the buy-in of employees at all levels. Success lies in influencing behaviour and fostering a culture where everyone feels part of the solution. Education, communication, and empowerment are key to ensuring that carbon reduction becomes a shared responsibility.
Carbon reduction targets are not just aspirational — they are essential. Yet, many organisations are far from achieving them. The importance of reducing carbon emissions cannot be overstated. Immediate action is critical to meet regulatory standards, such as The Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR), and schemes such as The Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS). Start with monitoring solutions!
Together, we must move beyond data collection to meaningful action. By prioritising monitoring, automating processes, clarifying accountability, and fostering employee engagement, businesses can address the challenges of energy management and work towards achieving their carbon reduction targets.
For us, EMEX 2024 highlighted the need for leadership, speed, innovation, and collaboration as businesses navigate the path to sustainability and net zero. The journey to sustainability isn’t without its challenges, but with the right tools, shared commitment, and a clear vision, organisations can transform energy data into impactful actions that drive meaningful change.
IAconnects is a leader in digital transformation and a specialist in system integration. Discover more about its energy saving solutions at iaconnects.co.uk
