trans-o-flex CEO Martin Reder: “This is how we systematically increase our energy efficiency levels, reduce costs and improve our environmental footprint”

An energy management system according to ISO 50001 consists of five core elements. To begin with, the company develops and documents its energy policy. In doing so, the company is committed to its strategy for efficient energy use. The current status at the start of the process is established by recording and analysing the energy flows and consumption. At the same time, this analysis can reveal potential energy savings. In addition, specific goals in terms of the energy efficiency and energy consumption can be developed and recorded. Following this development and implementation of action plans commences in order to successively achieve the energy goals. Ultimately the key concern involves regularly inspecting what has been attained and where necessary to adapt certain individual steps and to implement new ideas. This continuous improvement process within a PDCA cycle (Plan-Do-Check-Act) forms the systematic core of every ISO certification.

"ISO 50001 fits seamlessly within our integrated management system because our employees are already familiar with the structure and processes from other ISO certifications.” The BSI Group was chosen as the certifier, as it was for ISO 9001 and ISO 14001. The certificates, like those for the other management systems at trans-o-flex – such as the pharmaceutical logistics certification in accordance with EU GDP or the security certifications according to TAPA standards – are available at any time on the company website in the Downloads section. 

As one of the first steps in the operational rollout of the management system, all branch managers completed training in energy-efficient operations and behaviour. The largest consumers at each location were also identified. It emerged here that at an average trans-o-flex site around 70 per cent of total energy demand is required for the provision of heating. “We will therefore place particular emphasis on upgrading and controlling the heating systems,” explains Reder. “Measures in this area always affect both costs and the carbon footprint, so we therefore have a double saving effect.”