Key Dates for ESOS in 2023

As a business owner or manager, staying compliant with government directives is a big part of your job. It can also be a huge headache, especially if you aren’t working to the correct standards when it comes to energy efficiency, such as ESOS.

Planning ahead will ensure you are aware of key dates and help you avoid any unexpected deadlines. Read on as we explain what you need to know about ESOS and the dates for 2023.

What is ESOS?

The Energy Savings and Opportunities Scheme (ESOS) is a mandatory regulation for businesses, encouraging carbon emission reduction and increased energy efficiency. Launched in 2014, this government directive aimed to assess the amount of energy businesses use and work to reduce carbon emissions.

It requires businesses to keep detailed records and report on the size of their energy consumption to the Environment Agency, which is the UK administrator. Designed to happen in phases, December 2023 was the original final compliance date. However, the guidance has been updated and consequently, the scheme has been extended to incorporate Phase 4.

ESOS in 2023 – Phase 3

Covering a period of 4 years, ESOS Phase 3 began on 7^th December 2019. The 31^st December 2022 was the last opportunity to check if your business qualifies under the Phase 3 criteria. This criteria states that businesses must:

• Be UK based
• Employ at least 250 people or
• Have an annual turnover of £44 million+ and an annual balance sheet of £38 million+

The 5^th December 2023 is the deadline for Phase 3 compliance.

ESOS Phase 4 in 2023

Phase 4 of ESOS has a qualification date of 31^st December 2026 and compliance date of 5^th of December 2027. However, the compliance period starts on 6^th December 2023 and lasts for four years.

Within the compliance period, you need to take a few steps to stay compliant:

• Carry out an audit to calculate all the energy your business consumes – This needs to happen during the 12 months starting 6^th December 2023.
• Focus on and analyse the areas that use significant energy – 95% of what you have calculated is classes as your ‘significant energy consumption.’
• Use a qualified lead assessor to check your report – This can be a qualified employee or independent contractor.
• Get your report reviewed by your business’ directors before signing it off – It is important to make sure all appropriate people see and agree with your findings.

The ESOS scheme benefits your business as it ensures your carbon emissions are kept low and you are able to monitor and improve areas that are not energy efficient. It is also extremely important to comply with the ESOS scheme as it is a mandatory regulation. You could be fined up to £50,000 if you are eligible and don’t complete a report.

Prepare for ESOS Phase 4 with Volta Compliance

There’s no avoiding it, if your business is of a certain size, you are expected to comply with the government’s ESOS directive.

Volta Compliance are trusted experts with comprehensive knowledge and experience dealing with the ESOS assessment process. Our team will help you audit your energy consumption and make a plan to ensure you are meeting mandatory industry standards. We can also help you save money long-term by reducing your energy output.

Call our friendly team for advice on 0113 436 0402 or email [email protected].