Overcoming Barriers to Energy Management
Overcoming Barriers to Energy Management
There are far too many variables between companies to create an exhaustive list of barriers applicable to all manufacturing industries. However, there are several barriers common to all types of businesses, including industry.
Commitment and Time Barriers
Commitment and time barriers are natural results of a very competitive and money-driven business world.
Time is already limited for both management and employees.
It can be difficult to follow policies all the time on an ongoing basis.
There is no way to increase the amount of time that exists; the only thing you have control over is how you spend your time. Make energy management a high priority by showing senior management and employees the significant amount of money that can be saved over the long term.
Policy-Based Barriers
There must be a desire and commitment among all employees, including all levels of management, to carry out policies related to energy management.
To overcome policy-based barriers:
Educate staff on the reasons behind the policies and how their actions will directly decrease costs and increase revenue, as well as provide their company with a competitive advantage
Build in accountability for all employees with regards to improving energy efficiency
Financial Barriers
Financial barriers can be very difficult to overcome, as money is always a limited resource and energy management investments are not the only investments being considered by business owners.
Often short-term profits and goals are seen as being more critical than long-term profits and goals. There may also be capital investment barriers to purchasing newer, more efficient technology.
To overcome financial barriers:
Make sure your energy management investments are good, sound, profitable investments.
Take advantage of incentive programs through various organizations, including the government.
