ISO 50001

Energy Management Systems

Energy management is one of the greatest challenges in modern society. Energy use represents 60% of global gas emissions. Efficient energy use and climate change are a key part of the 17 sustainable development goals of the United Nations Agenda 2030. Combating climate change caused by greenhouse gas emissions is a strategic priority for the European Community. The strategies set and the legislation adopted encourage countries and regions to establish their own emission reduction strategies.

About the standard

Although the ISO 50001 (Energy Management System) standard has only been used by organizations since 2011, the number of certified organizations is growing exponentially, with 24,924 organizations certified at the end of 2022 (ISO Survey 2023 – without data from China). 25% of all certified energy management systems are in the primary production of metals, food and beverages, rubber and plastic products, chemicals and chemical products, electrical and optical equipment.

The ultimate objective of the standard is to assist organizations in establishing systems and procedures needed to enhance energy efficiency, cut energy costs and reduce Greenhouse Gas emissions.

Large organizations with a certificate fulfil their obligation under the Energy Efficiency Act, and it enables energy-intensive organisations to reduce their contribution to RES (Promotion of the Use of Renewable Energy Sources Act).

Suitability of use

It is applicable to organizations of all types and sizes, regardless of geographical, cultural or social conditions. The standard for energy management systems can be used independently or in integration with other management systems.

The standard applies only to activities that are under the control of an organization. The energy management system allows organizations to:

• design its energy policy,
• identify characteristic areas of energy consumption and areas for energy efficiency improvement, as well as risks and opportunities related to energy use,
•  identify and monitor legislative obligations and other requirements,
•  determine energy goals and priority actions,
•  provide resources, functions, responsibilities and authorities in the field of energy management,
•  establish control, review and assessment of energy activities to achieve energy goals and continuously improve energy efficiency.