Energy Audit

The first step toward developing an energy conservation plan is obtaining an energy audit or building efficiency assessment which will identify potential energy efficient improvements by pinpointing where your building is losing energy. Energy audits also evaluate the energy and water efficiency of building systems such as heating, cooling, lighting, and water heating. By making improvements identified by the energy audit, your business will save energy, increase capital, and enhance the comfort of your employees. The energy audit will also project the payback period (length of time it will take to recover the amount spent on upgrades) for identified upgrades as well as a savings and cost benefit analysis of the identified improvements. Over time, the amount of money saved can be considerable.

There are typically three levels of energy audits: 1 A Type I, also called a preliminary or walk-thru audit is the simplest and quickest type, using basic utility invoice analysis; Interviews with site-operating personnel; operational data review; and conducting a room-by-room walk-through of the facility to identify obvious areas of energy waste or inefficiency. This level of audit will prioritize energy-efficiency projects and determine the need for a more detailed audit.

The Type II energy audit expands on the preliminary audit by collecting more detailed information. This type of audit balances time, effort, and cost with more complete, accurate recommendations; is more focused on specific building systems; and provides sufficient data to make “go/no-go” investment decisions. It also has a higher degree of accuracy which maximizes savings, makes analysis easier, and simplifies implementation.

The Type III energy audit, also called a comprehensive audit focuses on building systems that are problematic, of interest, of high priority, or are otherwise designated by the site. It also involves gathering more detailed field data and a more precise engineering analysis. This level of audit provides detailed project cost and savings calculations.

Depending on the level of audit provided, a professional energy auditor may use various types of equipment such as blower doors to determine the extent of building envelope leaks; infrared cameras which detect areas of insufficient insulation and air infiltration; strategically placed energy monitoring devices and photometric reports to determine the most efficient type and placement of lighting fixtures. A thorough audit can reveal opportunities to increase insulation levels; improve solar heat gain & loss through window replacement; reduce water usage; and improve lighting efficiency, to name just a few.

The California Energy Commission (CEC) is currently working on requirements for installing energy efficient measures that would save a minimum of 10% of a building’s energy consumption prior to the installation of renewables (i.e. solar).

Most utility providers offer energy audits and depending on the level and type of audit requested, may include guidance on time of use management and demand response options. The customer will also receive information on rebate and incentive programs that may offset a significant amount of the project costs 2. Keep in mind, in order to qualify for tax incentives your equipment must meet Energy star requirements 3.

1 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF Energy – Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy
2 Pacific Gas & Electric
3 Environmental Protection Agency – Energy Star