Energy Inside Organizations: The Four Fields

Abstract

This chapter considers energy and water use inside an enterprise. Energy use is assigned to each of the Four Fields of buildings, environment, equipment and processes/procedures, and people, and the elements of each of those Four Fields are described. Examples of differences in energy use patterns among types of facilities are presented. A brief summary of different types of products and services relevant to effective energy efficiency/energy conservation/alternative energy/water use is also included, although rapid advances in technology and practice argue against an extensive review. Operations and maintenance activities are mentioned as an important driver of excessive energy and water use or of savings. The Four Fields are intended to provide a way to visualize influences and pockets of use inside each institution, although they are all closely connected.