In our new series, we scan LinkedIn each month to highlight one post that, in our view, carries the greatest value and contains the most meaningful insights—one that is worth reading and worth following the author for. November’s Post of the Month: What have we learned about energy management in the last 10 years? – reflections by Kristóf Lengyel.
Energy management is no longer just a cost-reduction tool; it has become one of the most important strategic pillars of corporate operations. Kristóf Lengyel, founder of the Panda energy management software, condensed a decade of experience into a single post—sharing lessons that go beyond technology and reveal the true business value of energy data. Below is a summary of the key messages.
1️⃣ Energy management is intertwined with every department
According to Kristóf, energy management never stands alone: it connects to finance, operations, procurement, and strategic planning. When energy data is structured and reliable, it not only leads to savings but also enables more transparent and predictable operations.
2️⃣ Data alone is not enough – analysis unlocks real value
Most companies already collect energy data, but many do not analyze it. This is like buying a book and never opening it. Real progress comes from recognizing the relationships and patterns within the data.
3️⃣ The first step: gather what is already available
Invoices, 15-minute/monthly consumption data, solar production, certifications. These alone can unlock 10–20% savings. More advanced measurement systems and investments should only come afterward.
4️⃣ Without automation, gaps in the data will always remain
Manual data collection is unsustainable. The “we’ll gather it later” mindset typically leads to chaos and half-solutions. Anyone who has ever tried to collect data manually from different systems knows exactly how time-consuming and error-prone it is.
5️⃣ There must be an accountable owner: energy management needs a responsible lead
Software plus expertise is the winning combination. Without a designated owner, processes fall apart, investments lack proper control, and strategic focus disappears.
6️⃣ Optimize operations first—only then invest
It makes little sense to invest in solar panels or other energy technologies when the core operations still operate with 20–30% inefficiencies. Sound investments rely on stable, optimized operations.
7️⃣ An investment does not end at handover: continuous monitoring is essential
Kristóf emphasizes that a faulty inverter or incorrect settings can eliminate months of savings if no one is monitoring performance. Maintenance and data monitoring are inseparable.
8️⃣ Sustainability is no longer a bonus—it is a baseline principle
Companies increasingly recognize that conscious energy management is not only a financial advantage but also a prerequisite for long-term viability. Sustainability has become a strategic necessity.
9️⃣ Want quick results? Start with contracted capacities
One of the fastest and simplest saving opportunities lies in reviewing contracted capacities. Many companies have been paying for unused capacity for years—often significant amounts.
🔟 A bad contract can cost you for years
Proper data analysis is critical here as well. Re-evaluating and optimizing contracts can frequently result in savings worth millions.
Conclusion: Energy management is a continuous process, not a project
Those who think in systems can transform data into knowledge and decision support. Those who do not are left only with numbers. The difference is reflected both in achievable savings and in the quality of strategic decisions.
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