ESOS was introduced to aid the UK in meeting its emissions target and is a compulsory government initiative for larger businesses (those with more than 250 members of staff or turnover in excess of circa £40m), requiring them to undertake regular audits of their energy consumption and potential energy saving opportunities.

Manufacturers must conduct their ESOS assessment by 5th December 2015 or risk financial penalties ranging from £5000 to £50,000.