What are the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) compliance requirements for manufacturing and engineering companies?
To comply with ESOS, manufacturers and engineers must:
1. Measure Total Energy Consumption
a. Include all buildings, industrial processes, and transport
b. Typically includes electricity, gas, fuel, and company vehicle use
2. Conduct Energy Audits
a. Identify cost effective energy saving opportunities
b.Must be compliant with ISO 50002 standards
3. Appoint a Lead Assessor
a. ESOS Lead Assessors must be qualified, registered professionals
b. They ensure audits meet ESOS technical criteria
4. Notify the Environment Agency
a. Submit compliance declaration on the ESOS portal by the deadline
5. Maintain Records
a. Keep evidence of energy audits, savings opportunities, and assessment methodology for at least four years
The ESOS Audit Process
ESOS audits are generally conducted in three stages:
Stage 1: Data Collection
1. Collect energy use data for buildings, industrial processes, and transport
2. Verify data accuracy and completeness
3. Identify significant energy users (SEUs)
Stage 2: Energy Analysis
1. Benchmark energy performance against previous audits or industry standards
2. Identify high consumption areas and operational inefficiencies
3. Quantify potential savings (kWh and £)
Stage 3: Action Planning
1. Develop a prioritised list of cost effective energy saving measures
2. Include projected payback periods and carbon reduction estimates
3. Integrate with existing ISO 50001 energy management and ISO 14064 GHG reporting
Additional Resource
If you’d like to learn more about ESOS and other operational improvement / cost reduction related accreditations, please request a complimentary copy of our factories guide book – Planet meets Profit.