Glossary · Energy and utilities automation
Energy baseline (EnB)
Also known as: EnB, Energy baseline
German: Energetische Ausgangsbasis
In ISO 50001 energy management, an energy baseline (EnB) is a quantitative reference that provides a basis for comparing energy performance. It reflects a specified period and can be normalized using variables that affect energy use, such as production volume or outdoor temperature.
- Energy
- Standards
In one sentence
An energy baseline (EnB) is the quantitative reference for a defined period against which an organization compares its energy performance.
Example
The plant sets 2025 as the energy baseline, normalized to production tonnage, and compares each month's EnPI against it.
How it applies
- Energy management: The baseline is established from the energy review and used to demonstrate improvements in energy performance.
- Engineering: Relevant variables and static factors must be identified; if static factors change significantly, for example a new production line, the baseline is revised.
- Operation: Metering and data collection must be good enough to calculate both the baseline and current values with the same method.
- Documentation: The baseline period, data sources, normalization method and revision criteria should be documented so that later comparisons can be reproduced and audited. ISO 50006 gives guidance on baselines and EnPIs.
Energy baseline vs. energy target
The baseline is where you started. An energy target is the improvement you intend to reach, expressed against the baseline. Neither by itself shows that energy performance has improved; the comparison with current EnPI values does.