What are the common challenges faced by manufacturing companies and engineers when implementing the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS)?
1. Incomplete energy data: Use sub metering and ISO 50001 dashboards
2. Multiple sites or operations: Standardise data collection across sites
3. Low engagement from operational teams: Link energy saving measures to KPIs and management review
4. Difficulty prioritising opportunities: Use ROI, payback period, and carbon impact metrics
5. Tight ESOS deadlines. Plan audits and data collection well in advance
Addressing these challenges ensures compliance and maximises both energy and carbon reduction opportunities.
Typical ESOS Implementation Timeline
1. Preparation & scoping: 2 – 4 weeks
2. Data collection: 4 – 6 weeks
3. Energy analysis: 2 – 3 weeks
4. Action planning & report drafting: 2 – 3 weeks
5. Submission to Environment Agency: before ESOS deadline
Integrated with ISO 50001 and ISO 50002 audits, this process identifies actionable projects that deliver immediate financial and carbon benefits.
Key Takeaways for Manufacturers
1. ESOS is a mandatory energy audit scheme for large UK manufacturers, but it also drives actionable cost and carbon reductions
2. Works together with ISO 50001, ISO 50002, and ISO 14064 to streamline compliance and maximise value
3. Identifies high impact efficiency projects and renewable energy opportunities, particularly on site solar
4. Provides credible data to support tenders, ESG reporting, and Carbon Trust or PAS 2060 certification
5. When implemented strategically, ESOS audits pay for themselves quickly and generate ongoing operational savings
What Comes Next?
With ESOS compliance completed, manufacturers have:
1. Verified energy data across all sites and processes
2. Identified actionable energy saving measures
3. Integrated these findings into ISO 50001 energy management, ISO 14064 carbon accounting, and PAS 2060 / Carbon Trust certifications
4. Positioned themselves to deploy cash positive solar and other energy investments for immediate financial and carbon benefit
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.
