Nate Kessman, Vice President of Great Eastern Energy in New York, posted an article on Facility Executive with five tips for energy managers (originally framed as five mistakes to avoid):

1. Be a facility manager, not just an energy manager. – Think holistically about your energy strategy and the details of your energy supply contract.
2. Benchmark your energy and water use. – Compare against your own past performance, and potentially against industry peers.
3. Look at more than just price. – Also look at contract terms, usage restrictions, and supplier flexibility to avoid unexpected future expenses.
4. Prioritize energy efficiency upgrades. – Start with measures with rapid payback and develop a roadmap for future investments.
5. Solar can be a good investment. – Solar is a major up-front investment, but it can provide an attractive long-term payback and help to reduce your carbon footprint.

This may seem like simple advice, but carrying it out effectively can be challenging.