Business Energy Rating Index measures electricity consumption

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The index was launched with the aim of promoting energy efficiency among businesses across the country to ensure the development of sustainable business enterprises.

The 49M Business Energy Rating Index measures the electricity consumption of South African companies in terms of various parameters, the first of which being the usable space (all under roof operations excluding garages and store rooms as per SANS1544) occupied by the company in its buildings and operations. This will provide an indication of the company's relative energy efficiency, expressed as a function of electricity consumption per square metre of usable space.

By calculating the energy rating of companies and listing them on an energy rating index, it becomes possible to establish trends of efficiency measures within various sectors. The index currently has 12 entries listed.

Reflecting awareness

"For South Africa to be more energy efficient we need private and corporate citizens to do their bit. This inaugural index is aimed at establishing a national index reflecting the awareness and behaviour displayed by commercial and industrial businesses and their employees in matters relating to energy efficiency," says Pieter Pretorius, Eskom's acting general manager of Strategic Marketing Initiatives and Brand.

"The Index uses a simple formula that is based on global standards. The index incorporates measures to be included in an organisation's sustainability reports and will provide organisations with valuable engagement and reporting tools. We invite all organisations to participate in the inaugural 49M Business Energy Efficiency Behavioural Index," says Pretorius.

All companies are invited to participate by providing accurate information on their usable operational space and their annual energy consumption. Companies that are already reporting on sustainability are also urged to participate.

"The index will provide organisations with an additional reporting measure for sustainability reporting. Companies will also benefit through structured and assisted employee engagement. It is an opportunity to measure efforts made by organisations - against their industry counterparts, as well as the rest of the world," Pretorius says.