Energy Monitoring and Targeting (M&T) is rooted in the principle that it is impossible to manage what cannot be measured. M&T techniques provide feedback on operating practices and results yielded by energy management projects while estimating expected energy consumption for a given period. M&T draws on the following principles:

• Monitoring: data gathering to establish baselines and monitor resulting impacts subsequent to changes.
• Targeting: identification of reduction targets based on past data.
• Reporting: energy consumption analysis to make informed decisions on the measures required to meet targets.

This energy efficiency technique involves a rigorous methodology:

Preparatory Steps:

A.     Site analysis and identification of main consumers

B.     Identification of other variables (production, weather, schedule, etc.)

• Measure: data gathered automatically at regular intervals.
• Define the baseline: design of a basic model using all variables.
• Monitor variations: difference between data measured and the baseline.
• Identify causes: subsequent to verification of variations, it is necessary to identify related causes, whether they are positive (to be repeated and fostered) or negative (to be eliminated).
• Set targets: use the baseline to identify realistic and attainable targets.
• Monitor results: ensure that projected targets are reached and sustainable.

Main M&T Advantages

• Significant energy savings (between 5% and 15%)
• Very short payback period (less than 2 years)
• Energy cost management
• Greenhouse gas emission reductions
• Quantification of potential savings
• Promotion of financing options for energy efficiency projects
• Energy savings projections