It is easy to confuse the terms ‘energy management’, ‘energy efficiency’ and ‘energy conservation’. This series of fact sheets clarifies some of the key terms related to energy management with discussion of the associated benefits and issues. Additionally, the key elements of an effective energy management strategy are introduced. This resource will be helpful to those unfamiliar with basic energy management concepts. Clear and concise definitions can also help those writing an energy management related business proposal.

Factsheet topics include:

This document details roles and skills required to undertake, report on and implement the findings of rigorous energy efficiency assessments for large energy users. It is the result of research primarily based around the assessment requirements of the Energy Efficiency Opportunities (EEO) program. The findings also have relevance for companies participating in state government energy assessment programs and other companies wishing to improve their energy efficiency performance.

A summary of the roles and responsibilities of key figures within a large organisation that are relevant to corporate energy management.

The positions for which these roles are summarised are:

• chief financial officers
• environmental health and safety professionals
• mechanical or electrical engineers
• technicians and tradespeople
• sustainability officers

Outlines the workings and components of Air Handling Units (AHU) and discusses efficiency improvement opportunities obtainable through their design and upgrade.

Describes co/tri-generation technology and considerations of key benefits from its application.

Provides some basic information on thermal storage including a description of sensible heat, latent heat and thermo-chemical storage and how these may apply to chiller operation through load leveling and load shifting strategies.

Provides an overview of HVAC energy efficiency issues.

Case study of a retrofit at 4 Mort Street, Canberra to significantly improve energy performance from 2 to 4.5 stars NABERS rating.

Outlines some general information on Building Management Systems (BMS) including when to replace a BMS system, develop specifications for commissioning, fine tuning, operation and maintenance of BMS.

A summary of what’s included in the Guide to best practice maintenance & operation of HVAC systems for energy efficiency, released in January 2012.