Research on the characteristics of long-term energy policy and associated strategies in multisite
manufacturing organisations is limited. Non-energy intensive multinationals do not face
the environmental regulations required by their energy intensive counterparts, leading to
missed opportunities and further widening the energy efficiency gap. This work investigates
the development of a long-term energy policy and supporting strategy to close the energy
efficiency gap focused on the inherent barriers found for non-energy intensive multi-site
organisations. A systematic literature review identifies the essential components and the
associated barriers/drivers to energy management. Highlights include (i) a review of energy
policy guidelines and standards, (ii) an analysis of the decision-making practices, (iii) the
influence of the non-energy benefits of energy-related investments and (iv) a study of six
leading sustainable global organisations to identify best energy management practices.
Subsequently, this work proposes a methodology to formulate a ‘corporate energy policy and
an associated strategy’ in support of non-energy intensive multi-national manufacturing
organisations by focusing on their specific characteristics and barriers. A case study is
presented with findings on initial deployment in a Fortune 500 multinational corporation.
Finally, conclusions are drawn and future work is proposed.