Development of a global energy management system for the life sciences industry: an energy management maturity model implementation

Abstract

The Global Energy Management System (GEMS) research project proposes a novel methodology for assessing capital energy-efficiency projects at a global level. The paper scope covers the systematic development and implementation of a methodology that supports sustainable decision making based on the following four pillars: (1) Site Characterisation: understanding what drives energy use on each site. (2) Performance Evaluation: comparing a site’s energy performance over time, against the global network and external peers. (3) Shared learning and dissemination: ensuring the best methodologies are proliferated across the network (4) Corporate Policy: investment strategies based on the value of energy incorporating standard financial performance metrics, business continuity process (BCP) and corporate social responsibility (CSR). In particular, this paper presents the development and implementation of an energy management maturity model as a fundamental step in two of the above pillars: Site Characterisation and Performance Evaluation. The energy management maturity model aims to provide a global view of the overall network readiness for engaging in energy efficiency activities and a baseline from which all sites can improve from.