Energy monitoring is the process of tracking and analysing how energy is used across your business. It helps you understand when, where, and how much energy you’re consuming – and why it matters.
With the right monitoring tools in place, businesses can reduce waste, cut costs, and take meaningful steps toward sustainability goals like net zero.
What does energy monitoring involve?
At its core, energy monitoring involves:
- Collecting data from utility meters, sub-meters, BMS systems, and equipment
- Tracking usage across different times, locations, and systems
- Analysing patterns to uncover inefficiencies or unusual activity
- Taking action based on insights, from adjusting schedules to upgrading equipment
Also read: How to manage your energy data
Why is energy monitoring important?
Energy is one of the biggest controllable costs in most businesses, and one of the largest contributors to carbon emissions. Without monitoring, you’re working blind.
Effective energy monitoring helps you:
- Identify waste and reduce unnecessary usage
- Understand what’s driving your energy costs
- Spot faults or control issues early
- Build accurate carbon reports and meet compliance requirements
- Make informed investment decisions
Learn more: Why energy management is important
What tools do you need?
Basic monitoring can be done using smart meters and monthly reports. But to gain real value, especially across complex estates, you’ll need:
- A platform that collects and displays real-time data
- Integration with your BMS, meters and billing systems
- The ability to track usage at site, zone, or asset level
- Automated alerts and reporting tools
Platforms like EMMA AI go further, using artificial intelligence to identify anomalies and surface savings automatically.
Related post: What is an AI energy management system?
How often should you review your energy data?
Real-time or daily monitoring is ideal for spotting immediate issues. At a minimum, weekly or monthly reviews will help you stay on top of trends and act before issues escalate.
Ongoing monitoring allows you to:
- Track the success of efficiency projects
- Catch performance drift in equipment
- Avoid bill shocks from unnoticed consumption spikes
- Report accurate data for ESG and compliance
Who benefits from energy monitoring?
Energy monitoring benefits anyone managing buildings, energy, or sustainability performance. This includes:
- Energy and facilities managers
- Operations teams
- Finance departments
- Sustainability and ESG leads
Even senior leadership benefits – through improved reporting, cost control, and strategic decision-making.
Visibility = Control = Savings
Monitoring your energy use is the first step to using less. With EMMA AI, Optimal Monitoring helps you go beyond dashboards – turning data into action. Find out more about how we can support your business.
Useful links …
How the UK hospitality sector can seriously reduce its energy bills.
How AI Is Transforming Energy Management for Commercial Buildings
Why Energy Monitoring Matters in Commercial Buildings
Which is better Carbon Neutral or Net Zero?