A strong energy policy formalizes senior management’s support for energy efficiency. It also articulates to your employees, the community, and stakeholders your organization’s commitment to saving energy.

Based on the experience of ENERGY STAR partners, an effective energy policy:

States an objective. Your energy policy should have a clear, measurable objective that reflects your organization’s commitment, culture, and priorities.

Establishes accountability. It should institute a chain-of-command, define roles, and provide the authority for staff to implement the energy-management plan.

Ensures continuous improvement. By including provisions for evaluating and updating the policy, you ensure your policy will reflect changing needs and priorities.

Promotes goals. Lastly, it should provide a context for setting performance goals by linking energy goals to the overall financial and environmental goals of your organization.

View examples of energy policies from Transwestern, Sears Holding Company, and New York Presbyterian Hospital.