ISO 50001:2018 Energy Management System

Consulting and Certification Preparation

Do you want to reduce energy costs, increase efficiency, and operate in compliance with increasingly strict energy efficiency regulations?

By implementing an energy management system according to the SRPS EN ISO 50001:2018 standard, your company not only optimizes resource consumption but also gains a competitive advantage, strengthens its ecological image, and meets regulatory and partner requirements.

Our team guides you through the entire process – from detailed energy analysis and loss detection to complete certification preparation – with no errors and no delays.

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What is ISO 50001:2018?

ISO 50001:2018 is an international standard for energy management systems (EnMS – Energy Management System). The goal of this standard is to help organizations continuously improve energy efficiency, reduce energy consumption, costs, and greenhouse gas emissions – through a structured and measurable approach.

The standard was developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and in Serbia it has been adopted as SRPS EN ISO 50001:2018 by the Institute for Standardization of Serbia.

ISO 50001 applies to all forms of energy:

  • electricity
  • natural gas
  • diesel/fuel
  • water for cooling or heating
  • steam and other media

Key elements covered by the standard:

Energy review: analysis of when, where, and how energy is consumed in the company

Objectives and indicators: setting measurable goals for efficiency improvement

Action plans: concrete measures for savings and improvements

Monitoring and measurement: tracking results and corrective actions

Employee awareness and training: involving the team in energy objectives

Documentation and procedures: a systematic approach that can be audited

ISO 50001 is based on the PDCA model (Plan–Do–Check–Act), which means it enables continuous improvement of energy performance – regardless of company size or industry.

In Serbia and the EU, there are more and more regulatory and fiscal incentives for companies that actively manage energy consumption. ISO 50001 is increasingly used as a basis for applying for subsidies, tax benefits, and ESG financial instruments.

Certification according to the ISO 50001:2018 standard provides independent proof that a company uses energy efficiently, which is increasingly a prerequisite for doing business with large clients, especially in international supply chains.

It is important to know: Certification is carried out by an accredited certification body that is independent from the consulting company.

Our task is to prepare and align you with the requirements of the standard so that you pass the certification process without nonconformities and obtain a recognized certificate.

Why is ISO 50001:2018 important for your company?

At a time of rising energy prices and stricter regulations, ISO 50001:2018 is not just a standard – it is a tool for strategic resource management and cost reduction. Implementing an energy management system brings numerous direct and indirect benefits for your company, regardless of its size or industry.

Direct energy cost savings

On average, companies that implement ISO 50001 achieve 5–20% savings on energy costs in the first year. The standard enables a systematic identification of "energy losses" and their elimination.

Complete control over consumption

Detailed analysis of consumption by departments, equipment, and processes allows you to know exactly when, where, and why energy is used – and to manage consumption in real time.

Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions (CO2)

ISO 50001 directly contributes to the company's ESG goals and sustainability. By reducing energy consumption, you automatically reduce emissions and meet the requirements of investors, partners, and environmental protection laws.

Compliance with laws and regulations

The standard helps you meet the requirements of the Law on Efficient Use of Energy, the Energy Management Regulation, and other regulations. It facilitates preparation for energy inspections and audits.

Access to subsidies and incentives

Implementing ISO 50001 is often a prerequisite for applying for energy efficiency funds, green loans, and state subsidies. The standard confirms a serious approach to savings and sustainability.

Strengthening reputation and competitive position

More and more partners, customers, and institutions require proof of responsible operations. The ISO 50001 certificate is a clear signal that your company operates in a modern, responsible, and strategic way.

Preparation for green transition and EU market

Implementing this standard is a strong step toward meeting the requirements of the European Green Deal, CBAM regulation, and ESG evaluations – which makes exports and cooperation with foreign companies easier.

In short:

ISO 50001:2018 helps you reduce costs, improve control over energy consumption, and demonstrate commitment to sustainable operations – through a clear, measurable, and strategic approach to energy efficiency.

Legal framework related to ISO 50001:2018 in Serbia

Implementing an energy management system according to ISO 50001:2018 significantly facilitates compliance with applicable laws and regulations in the fields of energy efficiency, sustainable development, and ESG requirements:

Law on Efficient Use of Energy

Official Gazette RS, no. 25/2013, 40/2021

The basic law that prescribes obligations for companies regarding rational energy use. Includes the appointment of energy managers, development of energy efficiency plans, and reporting on energy consumption.

Regulation on Energy Management and Reporting

Official Gazette RS, no. 18/2022

Defines the obligation for systematic energy management, data collection and reporting on consumption, as well as establishing internal mechanisms for monitoring and improving efficiency.

Law on Planning and Construction (energy aspects of buildings)

Official Gazette RS, no. 72/2009, 132/2014, 145/2014, 83/2018, 31/2023

Contains provisions on the energy properties of buildings, including the mandatory application of energy efficiency measures in the design, construction, and reconstruction of buildings.

Law on Environmental Protection (CO2 emission aspect)

Official Gazette RS, no. 135/2004, 36/2009, 36/2009 - other law, 72/2009 - other law, 43/2011 - CC decision, 14/2016, 76/2018, 95/2018 - other law, and 94/2024 - other law

Related to ISO 50001 through the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, which is an integral part of environmental responsibility and obligations under ESG principles.

CBAM regulation (EU – upcoming application)

For companies exporting to the EU, compliance with the CBAM mechanism, which requires proof of emissions and energy efficiency, will be necessary. ISO 50001 is a powerful tool for preparation and compliance with these requirements.

ISO 50001:2018 enables you to cover all key legal obligations through a structured and auditable energy management system – reducing the risk of non-compliance, inspections, and fines, while opening opportunities for subsidies and competitiveness on the EU market.

Our consulting process for ISO 50001:2018

How we guide you to successful certification

The standard was developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and in Serbia it has been adopted as SRPS EN ISO 50001:2018 by the Institute for Standardization of Serbia.

Introducing ISO 50001 does not have to be complicated – if you have the right partner. Our task is to make the entire process clear, efficient, and fully compliant with the standard.

Unlike template-based approaches, our system is 100% practical and applicable – it works in everyday conditions and delivers measurable benefits through lower bills, better control, and higher company reputation.

Average process duration: 30–90 days, depending on the complexity of operations, number of locations, and initial state.

Our 7-step approach:

1. Free initial analysis

Review of current state, operations, and energy needs

Clear assessment of whether ISO 50001 is needed and what benefits it brings

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2. Energy review and loss identification

Detailed analysis of when, where, and how energy is consumed

Identification of significant consumers, inefficiencies, and saving opportunities

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3. Setting goals and implementation strategy

Defining realistic and measurable energy goals (EnPI)

Creating an implementation plan with timelines and responsibilities

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4. Preparation of complete documentation

Energy management policy, aspect register, action plans, forms

Documentation is practical, with no unnecessary bureaucracy – tailored to your business

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5. Employee training and implementation in practice

Training of responsible personnel and energy management team

The system is implemented in everyday operations – not just on paper

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6. Internal system check (audit simulation)

Trial audit according to ISO 50001 standard

Correction of all identified nonconformities before the official audit

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7. Preparation and support during certification

Support in selecting an accredited certification body

Preparation of all documents and presence during the audit

Support even after certification (surveillance, updates, improvements)

Our approach is practical, without templates:

We create fully customized systems

We focus on usefulness and efficiency, not just "passing the audit"

We stay with you even after certification – for maintenance and further improvements

Schedule a free consultation with our team

You will receive a personalized ISO 50001:2018 implementation plan – no obligation, no templates.

What do you get with our consulting?

Introducing the ISO 50001 standard can be challenging without proper guidance. Our goal is not just to "get you through" the audit – but to build a system that delivers real results in savings, organization, and legal security.

Here’s what you get by working with us:

Energy efficiency and tangible savings

We identify the largest energy losses and set measures that reduce costs within the first months after implementation.

A system that actually works in practice

Unlike template-based solutions, our system is operational, easy to use, and fits into your existing processes.

Clear and confusion-free documentation

We create clear and applicable documentation – without technical jargon or unnecessary formalities. Everything you need – no more, no less.

Stress-free and predictable audit

Through internal checks, we prepare you thoroughly for certification. You know exactly what to expect, how the audit works, and how to answer every auditor’s question.

Time and internal resource savings

We manage the entire process – from analysis to training. Your team focuses on their work while we implement the system in parallel.

Legal compliance without risk of penalties

The system covers all obligations in the fields of energy and environmental regulations, so you are prepared for both inspections and reporting.

Stronger market position and ESG advantage

ISO 50001 earns you points with investors, partners, and in public procurement. You demonstrate that you run your company responsibly and sustainably.

Ongoing support and system updates

After certification, we stay with you: for annual surveillance audits, regulatory changes, additional training, and continuous improvements.

Do you want ISO 50001 to come to life in your company and deliver results – rather than just sitting in a drawer?

Schedule a free consultation and receive a clear implementation plan tailored to your business.

Which companies benefit most from ISO 50001:2018?

ISO 50001:2018 applies to all organizations that want to systematically manage energy consumption, reduce costs, and meet legal or market requirements in energy efficiency. Regardless of size, industry, or current consumption level – the benefits are measurable, quick, and long-term.

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Manufacturing companies

– High consumption in production facilities, machines, and processes – ISO 50001 enables identification of losses and process optimization

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Construction and infrastructure companies

– Energy-intensive on-site activities: fuel, electricity, water – The standard allows better resource planning and cost reduction

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Logistics and transport companies

– Management of fuel, routes, and vehicle/fleet operation – Savings through consumption optimization and fleet performance monitoring

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Companies with large facilities

– Shopping malls, hotels, warehouses, office complexes – Opportunity to optimize heating, cooling, lighting, and HVAC systems

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Energy-intensive industries

– Processing, chemical, and metal industries – The system helps with compliance with emission and efficiency regulations

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IT companies and data centers

– High consumption due to servers, cooling systems, and power supply – Enables precise consumption management and loss reduction

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Public institutions and local governments

– Need to save budget funds and improve facility efficiency – ISO 50001 is often a prerequisite for reconstruction projects and EU funds

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Companies with ESG goals and investment plans

– Energy efficiency is a key part of ESG reporting – A certified system shows seriousness, transparency, and stability

Most common mistakes in preparing for ISO 50001:2018 certification — and how to avoid them

Many companies start the certification process wanting to reduce costs and meet standards but face problems because they don’t know the specific requirements of ISO 50001. Below are the most common mistakes – and how we help you avoid them.

1. Superficial energy analysis

📌 The energy review is the foundation of the system – without an accurate picture of consumption, there can be no real savings.

Mistake: using incomplete or insufficient data, without identifying actual consumers.

Our solution: we conduct a detailed Energy Review – including actual equipment data, operating modes, and zones.

2. Poorly defined EnPI indicators and objectives

📌 Without clear indicators, there is no way to measure progress or improvements.

Mistake: setting unrealistic, immeasurable, or too general goals.

Our solution: we help set precise EnPI indicators and realistic, measurable improvement targets.

3. Documentation that doesn’t reflect reality

📌 ISO 50001 is not a bureaucratic document – it is an operational system.

Mistake: using template documents unrelated to actual processes.

Our solution: we create policies, registers, forms, and procedures tailored to your business – simple and clear.

4. Employees are not involved in the system

📌 Energy management requires a team approach.

Mistake: the system is introduced only by management or external consultants – without involving staff.

Our solution: we conduct training and workshops for everyone involved – from operational staff to management.

5. No preparation for certification audit

📌 The audit requires a complete and functional system, not a “quick fix.”

Mistake: facing the audit unprepared, without testing the system in practice.

Our solution: we conduct an internal audit modeled on certification – correcting all weaknesses before the certification body arrives.

6. Neglecting risk management and improvement plans

📌 ISO 50001 is not a “static” system – it requires continual improvement.

Mistake: company focuses only on savings while neglecting sustainability and planning.

Our solution: we develop continuous improvement and risk plans – including preventive and corrective measures.

We build a system that works, delivers results, and passes every audit – with no stress or unpleasant surprises.

Schedule a free consultation – and start ISO 50001 implementation the right way.

What are the risks if a company does not have an energy management system (ISO 50001:2018)?

Although ISO 50001:2018 is not legally mandatory, its absence exposes the company to continuous and often invisible losses. Without a systematic approach to energy efficiency – money, resources, and opportunities are slowly wasted.

High energy costs and resource waste

Without insight into significant consumers and losses, energy is used inefficiently

– Operating costs grow without added value

– There is no accurate data for budgeting and planning

– Investments in efficient equipment are delayed due to lack of analysis

No control over consumption and performance

– Without measurement and EnPI indicators, decisions are made “by feeling”

– The company does not know where the biggest losses are or how to fix them

– There is no basis for improvements or result tracking

Risk of non-compliance with laws and tenders

– Difficult to fulfill obligations from the Law on Efficient Use of Energy and EU directives

– Risk of disqualification from tenders requiring energy compliance

– Harder access to funds (e.g. IPA, EBRD, EU Green Deal)

Technical and operational barriers

– Inefficient consumption limits production and logistics capacity

– Higher maintenance costs and frequent operational bottlenecks

– Business becomes technically unsustainable long term

Risk of missing ESG opportunities and investments

– No proof of responsible energy use = weaker ESG score

– Investors and partners may bypass you for companies with better records

– Unable to track and prove your carbon footprint – which is crucial for EU markets

ISO 50001 does not just give you a certificate – it gives you cost control, systemic efficiency, and a sustainable competitive advantage.

FAQ

No, ISO 50001 is not legally required, but it is often a prerequisite for applying for subsidies, green loans, and working with large clients. It also helps meet ESG, CBAM, and other international standard requirements.
ISO 50001 is suitable for any company that wants to reduce energy costs and meet environmental requirements. It is particularly beneficial for: ● manufacturing companies ● logistics companies ● construction organizations ● public sector institutions ● IT companies ● facilities with high energy consumption
The implementation process usually takes 30–90 days, depending on: ● company size ● facility complexity ● number of locations ● current level of organization
Yes. You can start from scratch – our team guides you through the entire process, including: ● documentation development ● training ● energy review ● audit preparation
The certificate is issued by an independent, accredited certification body. We, as consultants, prepare your system for the audit and cooperate with several accredited bodies to help you choose the right one.
The ISO 50001:2018 certificate is valid for 3 years, with mandatory annual surveillance audits confirming the system is still functioning.
Documentation includes: ● Energy management policy ● Register of significant energy aspects ● Energy objectives and action plans ● Procedures for monitoring and analyzing consumption ● Records, forms, and audit reports
Yes, but not all in the same way. Key personnel (management, energy managers) undergo detailed training, while the rest receive basic education and awareness-raising on energy efficiency.
Yes. What matters is that the company controls energy consumption and processes, not property ownership.
Absolutely. Companies that implement ISO 50001 usually achieve 5–20% savings on energy bills within the first year – through systematic consumption control and loss elimination.
Of course. We cooperate with several verified and accredited bodies and help you select the one that fits your industry, budget, and location.

Didn’t find the answer to your question?

Contact us — our team responds within 24 hours with accurate, legally grounded information.