Energy audit deadline looms for large operators
Large fleet operators should be aware that 5 December is the compliance deadline for the mandatory Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS), by which time companies must have carried out an ESOS assessment and notified the Environment Agency.
The ESOS rules apply to ‘large undertakings’ – that is, UK companies that either employ 250 or more people, or have an annual turnover exceeding €50m and annual balance sheet total in excess of €43m; and overseas companies with a UK-registered establishment which has 250 or more employees paying UK income tax. Full details are available on the gov.uk website, here.
The assessment requires a calculation of total energy consumption, including buildings, industrial processes and – particularly pertinent for fleet operators – transport. Areas of significant consumption also need to be identified, and a lead assessor appointed. The aim of the audits is to allow large firms to identify cost-effective energy-saving measures.
ESOS assessments must then be carried out in every subsequent four-year period, ending on 5 December 2019, 2023 etc.
The Freight Transport Association’s climate change policy manager Rachael Dillon said: “With only four months until the ESOS deadline, companies should be taking immediate action now to comply if they have not done so already. Failure to do so could lead to financial penalties, not to mention having the added pressure of finding a ESOS lead assessor to conduct the audit in the autumn when demand is expected to peak.”
She added: “There is no getting away from the fact that ESOS will cost businesses in terms of money and administration, but to get the most out of the process and make subsequent energy savings, we urge fleet operators to act now.”
FTA says its Logistics Carbon Reduction Scheme: “has been identified in the Environment Agency’s best practice guidance as a means for freight operators to compile data and take action to reduce energy usage for transport for ESOS.” The association is also offering specialised freight transport audits to enable compliance. More detail is available from the FTA website.
