Our virtual discussion groups provide an opportunity to share questions, ambitions, challenges, approaches, opportunities, resources/tools used, progress and lessons learnt with members from across the network in an informal and friendly environment.  Our Energy Discussion Group brings members together to discuss a range of topics relating to energy management.

Areas for discussion include (and are not limited to): 

·       Understanding (measuring and reporting on) your energy consumption and impact (understanding your energy baseline)

·       Sustainable energy principles that members have or would like to develop

·       What does a good sustainable energy policy look like?

·       How do we introduce sustainable energy policies, prioritise and set targets?

·       How to develop and implement an impactful sustainable energy strategy and action plan

·       Energy efficiency measures (including behaviour change)

·       Sustainable heating options

·       Renewable technology (including what is the most effective and practical approach for small-medium organisations?)

·       How to maximise the efficiency of renewable e.g. solar PV panels (location, maintenance and cleaning)

·       Energy procurement (green-tariffs and Power Purchase Agreements)

·       Monitoring (reporting) and benchmarking – how is everyone else getting on?  How do you start to collect energy data that is both appropriate and available?  How to develop and improve data collection and reporting to support further positive change  

·       Collecting and collating data from multiple sites

·       The viability of using energy and carbon software for recording and reporting. What software is appropriate for my organisation?  What software is practical, beneficial and affordable?

·       How does energy connect into and influence the challenge of achieving net zero?

·       Compliance and standards e.g. The Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) and Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR)

·       Resources, guidance and case studies that can support you

·       Is it better (with regards to both budget available and effectiveness) to have a designated sustainable energy role or to spread responsibility and accountability throughout an organisation?  If it is not viable to create a specific role, what is the best approach to implementing sustainable energy management throughout an organisation?

·       Internal communication and buy-in of sustainable energy strategy.  How do you embed in your organisation’s culture?

Once you have registered, we will be in touch to identify any specific topics you would like the group to focus on.  Where appropriate we will identify a suitable guest speaker.

All members are welcome to attend, regardless of previous experience or knowledge on this topic.  The group will be of benefit to all network members, whatever your size and scope of operations/activity.  From organisations just starting off to those already delivering energy policy and strategy there will be lots to share and collaborate on, from identifying collective challenges to learning from other approaches.