STEP 1.1: Appoint an Energy Director

The Energy Director is not always an expert in energy and technical systems. Successful Energy Directors understand how energy management helps the organization achieve its financial and environmental goals and objectives. Depending on the size of the organization, the Energy Director role can be a full-time position or an addition to other responsibilities.

The Energy Director’s key duties often include:

• Coordinating and directing the overall energy program
• Acting as the point of contact for senior management
• Increasing the visibility of energy management within the organization
• Drafting an Energy Policy
• Assessing the potential value of improved energy management
• Creating and leading the Energy Team
• Securing sufficient resources to implement strategic energy management
• Assuring accountability and commitment from core parts of the organization
• Identifying opportunities for improvement and ensuring implementation (including staff training)
• Measuring, tracking, evaluating, and communicating results
• Obtaining recognition for achievements

Suggestions

If the Energy Director does not report directly to a senior manager, it is often helpful for a member of senior management to serve as an “executive ally.” Upper management involvement is a key component of successful programs. Having an ally provides a direct link to upper management and helps to formalize the commitment to continuous improvement.

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