Learning energy efficiency networks for companies – saving potentials, realization and dissemination

Panel: 1. Programmes to promote industrial energy efficiency

This is a peer-reviewed paper.

Authors:
Dirk Koewener, LEEN GmbH, Germany
Lisa Nabitz, Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research ISI, Germany
Ursula Mielicke, Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research ISI, Germany
Farikha Idrissova, Institute for Resource Efficiency and Energy Strategies (IREES) GmbH, Germany

Abstract

In Learning Energy Efficiency Networks (LEEN), 10 to 15 regionally based companies from different sectors share their energy efficiency experiences in moderated meetings. Following an energy review and the identification of profitable efficiency potentials in each company, all participants decide upon a joint target. Information regarding new energy efficiency solutions is presented by experts during these meetings, together with experiences concerning realized measures. The performance of each company is continuously monitored and is controlled on a yearly basis. The network operating period is typically from three to four years.

The LEEN management system consists of a variety of documents and calculation tools as well as regulations how to run a LEEN network. Thus it offers the participants a transparent evaluation of their saving potentials and ensures a quality standard. The energy review and the monitoring of implemented measures comply with the ISO 50001 standard. In the 360 participating companies of the publicly funded “30 Pilot-Netzwerke” (30 Pilot Networks) project, approximately 3,600 profitable measures were identified, corresponding to an energy saving potential of more than 1,200 GWh per year, and a CO2 emission reduction of nearly half a million tons per year. The average internal rate of return of more than 30% demonstrates the high level of profitability. The results of the monitoring process document the realization of these profitable saving potentials.

This paper analyses the data acquired in the energy review and monitoring processes of the 30 Pilot Networks project in Germany. In addition, it illustrates the role of this LEEN management system within the framework of energy efficiency policy, and discusses how the system can be disseminated so as to establish a successful efficiency strategy for industrial companies.