Exploring the Benefits and Challenges of Energy as a Service

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EMA Associate Memberaesp to host Utility Rate Structures and Analysis training

 

 

 

Abstract:

Energy as a Service (EaaS) is an innovative business model where organizations outsource their energy needs to a third-party provider, similar to Software as a Service. Customers avoid upfront equipment costs and responsibility for maintenance; instead, the provider installs, operates, and manages the energy systems, assuming performance risks and often financing the project.

EaaS can also include ongoing monitoring, helping identify further energy savings and simplifying sustainability reporting for ESG and GHGI requirements. Customers pay a subscription or usage-based fee for the energy consumed.

While EaaS shares similarities with Energy Savings Performance Contracts (ESPCs), key differences exist. Understanding the benefits and challenges of EaaS is essential before deciding if it’s the right choice for your organization.

Learning Objectives:

  1. Define Energy as a Service (EaaS) and how it differs from conventional energy procurement models.
  2. Identify the main features and advantages of the EaaS business model, such as risk transfer, financing options, and continuous energy management.
  3. Compare and contrast EaaS with Energy Savings Performance Contracts (ESPCs), highlighting the unique attributes and applications of each approach.
  4. Evaluate the suitability of EaaS for various organizations by assessing its potential benefits and challenges in real-world scenarios.

Date

Dec 02 2025

Time

2:00 pm
Category

Speakers

  • Dr. Timothy Unruh Dr. Timothy Unruh Executive Director, NAESCO
    Dr. Timothy Unruh
    Dr. Timothy Unruh
    Executive Director, NAESCO

    Dr. Timothy D. Unruh is the Executive Director of the National Association of Energy Service Companies (NAESCO). In this role, he manages the representation of its member Energy Service Companies. NAESCO provides advocacy for the industry at the Federal, State and Local levels, and provides for member company Accreditation.

    Prior to this role, Dr. Unruh was the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Renewable Power at the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) Office of the US Department of Energy (DOE). As the Deputy Assistant Secretary, Dr. Unruh managed the nation’s renewable power research, while also providing oversight to the Grid Modernization Initiative.

    Also, while at the DOE EERE, Dr. Unruh Directed the Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP). As FEMP Director, Dr. Unruh oversaw the implementation of policy and actions that resulted in energy efficiency implementation, renewable energy adoption, and reductions in energy and water use in Federal government operations. Dr. Unruh coordinates with DOE national laboratories and other Federal agencies in this capacity.

    Dr. Unruh has a doctorate, master’s, and bachelor’s degrees in electrical engineering from Wichita State University in Wichita, Kansas.

  • Jen Szaro Jen Szaro President and CEO, AESP
    Jen Szaro
    Jen Szaro
    President and CEO, AESP

    Jen Szaro currently serves as President and CEO for the Association of Energy Services (AESP) a not-for-profit organization serving over 5,500 members throughout North America with a mission focused on facilitating the transition to a more resilient and integrated energy ecosystem through workforce development, collaboration, and thought leadership. She also currently serves as Vice Chair of Drive Electric Florida and an Advisory Board Member for the Florida Solar Energy Center, the University of Central Florida College of Engineering and Computer Science and the Center for Energy Workforce Development.

    Prior to her current role, Jen was Vice President of Research and Education at the Smart Electric Power Alliance and led renewable energy and sustainability programs for nine years with the Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC). She also spent eight years as a photovoltaics researcher with the Florida Solar Energy Center.

  • Robert J. Knoedler Robert J. Knoedler P.E. CxA EMP
    Robert J. Knoedler
    Robert J. Knoedler
    P.E. CxA EMP

    Robert Knoedler is an executive consultant and vice president at Hanson Professional Services and past president of the Energy Management Association (EMA). He has spent over 40 years as a consultant in mechanical/electrical facility design, commissioning, and energy management. Bob has presented to numerous private and governmental organizations and has published a number of articles related to energy management and commissioning.