Data is the fuel that powers strategic energy management across the public and private sectors. With decarbonisation targets intensifying and operational budgets under scrutiny, energy leaders attending the Energy Management Summit are under growing pressure to make timely, informed decisions. At the heart of this shift is the need for robust, interoperable data platforms that can deliver real-time insights, compliance-ready reporting, and seamless integration across estates…
But with a crowded marketplace and rapidly advancing technology, how can energy managers ensure they select the right energy data management system?
Interoperability is critical. The chosen platform must work effortlessly with existing systems, especially Computer-Aided Facilities Management (CAFM) tools and Building Management Systems (BMS). Integration enables automatic data sharing between platforms, reducing manual input errors and unlocking opportunities for automation, predictive maintenance, and centralised monitoring across multiple sites. Open APIs and industry-standard data protocols (such as BACnet and Modbus) are essential.
Regulatory compliance is another key driver. With evolving legislation like SECR, ESOS Phase 3, and net-zero mandates, the data platform must be capable of generating accurate, auditable reports. It should also support granular emissions tracking (Scope 1, 2, and 3) and align with frameworks such as ISO 50001. Energy managers should look for providers who stay ahead of legislative changes and offer built-in templates or automated compliance updates.
Real-time visibility has moved from a ‘nice to have’ to a ‘must have’. Platforms should support live data streaming from IoT-enabled submeters, sensors, and utility feeds, enabling facilities teams to spot anomalies, respond quickly to issues, and continuously optimise consumption. Dashboards must be intuitive and customisable, supporting both technical users and senior stakeholders who need high-level summaries.
Scalability and futureproofing also matter. Whether managing a growing portfolio or planning for net-zero retrofits, the platform should accommodate expansion. Look for modular solutions that allow additional features, like fault detection, asset monitoring, or AI-powered analytics, to be added over time. Cloud-based systems often offer greater flexibility and reduce the burden on internal IT teams.
Finally, vendor experience and support remain critical. Choose a partner with proven experience in your sector, be it healthcare, education, retail, or commercial property, and strong post-deployment support, including onboarding, training, and helpdesk access.
The right choice will not only streamline compliance but also empower teams to optimise energy use, lower emissions, and meet organisational sustainability targets with confidence.
Are you searching for Energy Data Collection tools for your organisation? The Energy Management Summit can help!Photo by Vincent Botta on Unsplash