The importance of energy efficiency for companies is constantly growing. Both environmental responsibility and cost savings have a decisive influence on the competitiveness of companies. In this article, we take a closer look at the most important facts of energy efficiency and show how companies can improve it.
Why saving energy is important for companies
Saving energy in companies is essential for a number of reasons. This was particularly evident due to the geopolitical crises, which drove industrial electricity prices in Germany to record levels in 2022 (Statista, 2024). They have shown that saving energy is becoming increasingly important for the competitiveness of companies. Energy consumption is one of the biggest cost factors, particularly in manufacturing companies. Companies that reduce their energy consumption can sustainably reduce their operating costs and thus increase their profit margins. This gives them a clear advantage over competitors who continue to bear high energy costs. In addition, energy-efficient companies are better prepared for price fluctuations caused by crises and are less affected by rising energy costs. They benefit from both financial stability and planning security.
Climate protection & legal requirements as important factors
Another important argument for saving energy in companies is the climate protection. According to the German Federal Environment Agency every kilowatt hour of conventional electricity (no green electricity) consumed emits an average of 0.4 kg CO2. Companies that save energy reduce their CO₂ footprint. In doing so, they are actively contributing to the fight against climate change. This is particularly important for consumers and business partners who are increasingly paying attention to the environmental friendliness of companies. Increasing energy efficiency improves your image and positions your company as sustainable.
Legal requirements play a role as well. In many countries, companies are subject to legal requirements that prescribe reducing energy consumption. In Germany, for example, energy audits have been mandatory for large companies since 2015. The energy audit analyses the company's energy consumption and identifies potential savings. In addition, energy-intensive companies have been required to implement energy efficiency measures since October 2022 (IHK Düsseldorf). Companies that reduce their energy consumption therefore not only save costs, but also avoid potential penalties.
Saving energy for companies: potential options
There are numerous measures that enable companies to save energy. This includes, for example:
- Replacing lighting
- Using more energy-efficient devices and machines
- Insulate and air condition buildings
- Use office equipment in energy-saving mode
- Train employees
However, some of these measures involve a great deal of effort or high costs, and others can only save energy one-time or only save a small amount of energy in your company. Another way to save energy is to use an energy management system. By choosing the right system, you can save energy automatically and in the long term without major costs. Like this, saving energy is made easy!
Saving energy in companies with an energy management system
Energy management systems like flexOn are powerful tools for systematically monitoring and optimising energy consumption in your company. Depending on its function, an energy management system has several components:
- Collection and analysis of energy data: The system collects data on the consumption of the company's energy-relevant plants and visualizes it. The data is then analyzed and savings potentials are identified. flexON also collects external data such as the electricity price and creates AI-based forecasts of power consumption and generation.
- Action planning and optimization: Based on data analysis, concrete measures to reduce energy consumption can be planned and implemented. More simply designed energy management systems usually only display the energy saving measures that must be implemented manually by specialists. Our EMS flexOn automatically optimizes power consumption and controls consumers accordingly.
- Monitoring and control: Energy management systems enable you to continuously monitor the success of implemented measures. This allows you to make adjustments as needed. In the case of flexOn, this is done continuously and automatically by the algorithm: It learns from past processes and continues to develop optimization. This ensures that you make steady progress in saving energy in your company.
Many countries are even supporting the implementation of an energy management system in accordance with DIN EN ISO 50001 financially. Companies that implement a certified system often benefit from tax breaks or government subsidies. In Germany, the BAFA module 3 subsidises the purchase of an EMS. flexOn is also eligible for BAFA Module 3 funding and is very cost-effective thanks to its monthly licensing model.
Savings through reduced energy consumption
Saving energy in companies is not only a contribution to environmental protection, but also an opportunity to reduce operating costs. However, some energy-saving measures, such as replacing machines or insulating buildings, are complex and expensive. Energy management systems such as flexOn automatically reduce your energy consumption without the need for large investments or specialists. With flexOn, you save up to 20% on energy costs, up to 30% CO2-emissions and remain competitive. Feel free to contact us to find out more about the potential in your company.