In response to the priorities and demands of eco-conscious utility consumers, energy management platforms (EMP) have boomed in the energy conservation marketplace.
If you’re interested in working with an energy management partner in the future, it’s important to do your research. There are a number of characteristics to consider in a successful partnership.
Communication is key
An energy management partner needs to properly engage customers. According to a 2017 Deloitte survey, the next generation of utility consumers desire two-way, dynamic communication. They want easy, accessible information and analytics to help monitor and manage usage.
In other words, energy management partners should deliver relevant information for building owners right when they need it. For example, technology can easily notify management when imminent mechanical issues arise and can lead to faster response times.
Making sure your partner takes an interest in raising the opportunity to talk with you one-on-one, offer free initial assessments and have tenant satisfaction in mind, is essential. Look for partners who actively look to improve the customer experience through the provision of digital communication.
Results resonate
Most importantly, when it comes to metrics, look for a company that has a proven track record of mining for energy performance insights. Seventy-three per cent of commercial property owners say they are very or extremely interested in energy management analytics.
Your service provider should guarantee some form of data-driven report card on a performance that can demonstrate areas where there have been significant improvements made. Live access to real-time data should give you a clear view of your overall savings by process and system
Access to these reports will offer peace of mind that your investment produces actual cost savings.
Sustainability is not a fad
It is no longer necessary to choose between profitability and sustainability. With buildings emitting up to 40% of all global emissions and 40% of North American commercial property owners having already installed building energy management systems, there are significant environmental and competitive reasons to address energy efficiency.
Seek out partnerships with companies that are as committed to reducing your building’s energy consumption as they are to their own environmental stewardship.
EMPs help property owners and managers achieve their operational goals; they can improve energy efficiency as well as save dollars. Look for partners whose services are data-driven, personalized and adaptable to your property’s energy needs. Ultimately, the correct energy management partner will work with you to achieve what is best for your property, occupants, budget and long-term sustainability.
