Step 4 is the CHECK part of the PLAN-DO-CHECK-ACT continual improvement model of the energy management system (EnMS).
Measure and Check Results ensures that appropriate monitoring and measurement activities are in place to evaluate whether the EnMS is operating in line with the energy policy and meeting planned objectives. If the energy policy commitments or energy objectives are not being met, plans are developed or modified so your organization can meet these commitments and continually improve energy performance.
Determining energy performance starts with monitoring and measuring the key characteristics of your organization’s operations that determine energy performance. Data is collected and analyzed to determine if your organization is properly managing the significant energy uses (SEUs) and improving energy performance through the use of energy objectives, targets and action plans. Attention is given to deviations in energy performance that are outside expected values. Calibration (or verification) systems are used to ensure that accurate data is collected for reliable analysis. Your organization also must determine whether applicable legal or other requirements related to its energy uses are being met.
Internal audits are conducted to evaluate both energy performance and the implementation and effectiveness of the EnMS. A preventive action program is established to avoid problems where possible. When problems do occur or the system is not proving effective, appropriate corrective actions are taken.
The results generated from ongoing monitoring and measurement activities, completion of action plans, internal EnMS audits, and corrective and preventive actions provide the information needed by top management to evaluate and ensure continual improvement of both energy and EnMS performance.
The following steps will help you establish the processes needed to measure and check results:
