Energy management systems - ISO 50001
The UNI CEI EN ISO 50001:2011 "Energy Management Systems" standard defines the requirements for creating, initiating, maintaining and improving an energy management system that enables an organization to control its energy performance in a timely and systematic manner in order to reduce costs, make consumption more efficient and safeguard energy resources globally.
The ISO 50001 standard looks at all factors that contribute to energy performance that can be controlled by the organization, regardless of size or sector. In fact, the standard is applicable to chemical, pharmaceutical, electronic, engineering, metal, textile, paper mill, food, business services, ESCO (Energy Service Company), Public Administration, Large Distribution, and Trade Associations.
WHY CERTIFY
Achieving ISO 50001 certification demonstrates the seriousness of the Organization with respect to issues related to environmental impact and is a competitive advantage over competitors, creating new business opportunities and helping to meet the needs of current customers and suppliers.
The structure of the standard is aligned with that of other system standards, such as UNI EN ISO 9001 (Quality Management Systems) and UNI EN ISO 14001 (Environmental Management Systems), so it can be used independently or integrated with other management systems.
WILL MY COMPANY UNDERGO CHANGES?
One of the main concerns for those approaching the certification process for the first time is the thought of having to disrupt their Organization. The interventions required to properly implement an Energy Management system actually consist of a number of activities that already take place, such as consumption analysis. Implementing the System is often a matter of better organizing what the company already puts into practice and documenting the information required by the standard.
HOW IS THE CERTIFICATION PROCESS CARRIED OUT?
The process to achieve ISO 50001 Certification begins with the implementation of the System, which can be done independently or through the support of an external consultant.
Once the system is implemented, ASACERT will verify the System's compliance with the regulations and issue the certification which is valid for 3 years, subject to annual verification.
The Audit takes place the first year and is divided into two stages (Stage 1 and Stage 2) at the end of which Certification is issued.
Within 12 months of the initial issuance of Certification, a Surveillance audit is conducted to ensure that the certified system has not changed and is still in compliance. In case of major changes, the Certification Body may decide to make changes to the Certificate in order to make it responsive to the changed situation of the company.
Within one year of the first Surveillance audit, a second Surveillance audit then takes place.
At the end of the third year, the Certificate must be renewed by means of a Renewal Verification, otherwise it will lose its validity.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET CERTIFICATION?
Timelines depend on the level of readiness and compliance of the Management System implemented by the Organization and the size of the company. For more detailed guidance on costs and timelines, contact us and we will be happy to offer any support you need.
THE BENEFITS.
Certification of an Energy Management System provides several benefits, including:
- Put in place processes necessary to analyze energy consumption
- Activate energy performance plans, targets and indicators to reduce consumption
- Identify opportunities to improve energy performance
- Improve brand reputation and image
- demonstrate to shareholders, customers and employees, the company's commitment to reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.