Energy Efficiency and Strategic EMS Practices in the Automotive Sector of Poland’s Silesian Voivodeship
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This study assesses energy management practices in the automotive sector of Poland’s Silesian Voivodeship, a highly industrialized region. Using structured interviews with 40 manufacturing firms, it examines the adoption of energy monitoring, submetering, Energy Performance Indicators (EnPIs), audits, and energy efficiency investments.Results show that 92.5% of firms monitor total energy consumption, but only 40% implement submetering, and 45% use EnPIs. Half have conducted energy audits, and 85% report taking energy-saving actions such as lighting upgrades, equipment modernization, and thermal improvements. However, no company reported measurable energy or cost savings, and few track investment outcomes quantitatively. Notably, no respondents identified their practices as part of a formal Energy Management System (EMS), such as ISO 50001.This indicates that while energy awareness is widespread, practices remain largely ad hoc and tactical, lacking strategic integration or continuous performance tracking. Larger firms are more likely to use audits and EnPIs, while smaller firms face barriers such as limited resources or technical expertise.The findings highlight a critical need for formalized EMS adoption, standardized energy governance, and greater use of performance-based tools like EnPIs. By exploring EMS-aligned behavior without referencing management systems directly, the study provides a unique lens on the operational maturity of industrial firms.
Source: Energies
DOI: 10.3390/en18174502
Authors: Marcin Piekarski, Klaudiusz Grübel
Institution: University of Bielsko-Biała
Language: English
Field: Energy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,137
OpenAlex ID: W4413543805