Rising energy prices, pressure to reduce emissions and tightening legislation are leading many organizations – from municipalities and regions to businesses – to systematically manage their energy operations. The ISO 50001 standard is an international framework that provides clear guidance for establishing an effective energy management system. It helps organizations continuously improve energy performance, reduce operating costs, and minimize environmental impact.
Legislative Obligations from 2026 (Amendment to the Energy Management Act)
The amendment coming into force on 1 January 2026 fundamentally changes the rules. Obligations will no longer depend on company size (number of employees, turnover) but solely on the average annual final energy consumption over three consecutive years.
What exactly is changing?
- If annual consumption exceeds 23,611 MWh, the organization must implement and certify an ISO 50001 energy management system. An energy audit is no longer sufficient in this consumption range.
- Mandatory energy audit (4 years) applies to consumption in the range of 2,778–23,611 MWh for both businesses and the public sector.
- Mandatory energy audit (10 years). Public institutions must undergo an audit also in the 500–2,778 MWh range, valid for 10 years.
- No obligation below thresholds - public institutions: < 500 MWh and business entities: < 2,778 MWh
These organizations do not need an audit or ISO, but may voluntarily adopt ISO 50001 – for example, because of subsidy requirements, systematizing management, or ESG pressure.
How ISO 50001 Improves Energy Management Efficiency
The backbone of the system is regular monitoring and evaluation of consumption, setting measurable targets and implementing measures that increase energy efficiency. An organization gains a detailed overview of its energy flows – where losses occur, what seasonal trends look like, and where the greatest savings potential lies.
The entire system is based on data, transparent procedures and regular evaluation, which significantly simplifies investment planning and responses to operational changes.
What Must the Organization Fulfil?
- Implement processes for monitoring and evaluating consumption
- Assign responsibilities and document procedures
- Identify significant energy-use areas
- Set measurable objectives and measures
- Demonstrate improvement during the certification audit
Benefits for Organizations and Public Administration
Implementing the standard increases transparency and accountability in energy management. ISO 50001 certification delivers direct financial savings while enhancing credibility with partners, investors and the public.
For municipalities and public institutions, ISO 50001 also provides a significant advantage when applying for funding focused on energy efficiency, building modernization or sustainable operations.
How We Can Help
Gatum Group supports organizations throughout the entire process of establishing an energy management system – from initial data collection and analysis, through proposing measures and preparing documentation, to full system implementation, staff training and certification support. Our methodology is based on practical experience and integrates strategic planning, technical data and modern digital tools for consumption monitoring.
We help clients turn ISO 50001 from a formal requirement into a powerful strategic tool for energy management.
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