Designing consultancy on energy

Lene Nielsen, Danish Energy Authority

Keywords

energy consultancy, the consultant role, levels in the consultancy process, designing consultancy

Abstract

There is a wide tradition for using energy consultancy in all end-using sectors and in various models. A lot of aspects have to be taken into consideration when a consultant scheme is to be launched.

This paper will contribute to the discussion of the role of the consultant in the different energy end-use sectors:

Energy consultancy is defined.

The process for energy consulting is related to the eight fundamental objectives for effective management consulting (Arthur N. Turner): responding to a client's request for information; providing solutions to specific problems; giving an in-depth, accurate diagnosis; presenting a program of recommended corrective actions; implementing changes; building consensus and commitment; facilitating client learning; and enhancing organizational effectiveness.

The role of the consultant is divided into 4 categories (expert, diagnostician, sparring partner, process consultant) depending on the consultant's focus (process or cases) and methodology (analysis or dialogue) .

Designing energy consultancy should reflect the end-use sector (household, industry etc.).