In order to know how to write an energy policy you must first identify what it is that your organisation wants to achieve from the policy document.
What are the overall objectives? Is the energy policy intended to save energy or simply cut costs? Does the policy aim to reduce energy across the entire organisation or just a few sites where most of the energy is being used? Is there an overall target for saving energy and is it achievable? What timescales have been set out to achieve the targets within the policy and what will happen if the targets are not met on time?
What resources are available to implement the energy policy? Will the policy have the backing and long-term commitment of senior management? How will staff be motivated to continually implement the energy policy? Does the organisation have the relevant expertise to meet the targets set out in the policy or will it need to bring in external help? Is there a sufficient budget available to pay for investment in new technology or consultancy fees?
Who will have overall responsibility for the energy policy and who will manage or implement it on a day-to-day basis? Has the management structure been clearly defined so that all stakeholders are aware of who is responsible for implementing the energy policy?
The energy policy must also consider what financial resources are available. Is there a separate energy budget with sufficient funds to be invested in the energy policy implementation? Does the budget extends beyond simple maintenance to enable investment in new technology and improvements? Are their accounting procedures in place that will enable any energy cost savings to be reinvested in further energy efficiency initiatives? Has the organisation identified a realistic payback period for investments? Are procedures in place to calculate the life cycle cost of implementing energy-saving technology and practices?
The energy policy should also consider how energy and energy efficiency can be monitored. From simple manual meter readings and checking of monthly invoices to a more developed process of automated meter reading facilities, the energy policy should identify what energy management information is required. Once the energy information has been gathered, consideration should be made for how this information can be used to the greatest effect.
Energy policy should set out clear targets and objectives to reduce consumption and/or costs. The targets should be both challenging and achievable, and cover both the long-term and short-term. The energy policy should also consider how different parts of the organisation may need to have individual targets.
A good energy policy will also consider how the organisation aims to engage all stakeholders. From training and awareness campaigns to staff suggestion schemes and incentives, the policy should seek to involve all people who can help to ensure the long-term success of the energy policy.
Credit: http://www.energymanagementnews.co.uk/how-write-energy-policy