An energy audit or building efficiency assessment identifies potential energy efficient improvements by pinpointing where a building is losing energy. Energy audits also evaluate the energy and water efficiency of building systems such as heating, cooling, lighting, and water heating.
An energy audit also projects the payback period (time it will take to recover the amount spent on upgrades) for the identified upgrades as well as a savings and cost benefit analysis of the identified improvements.
Types of Audits
The US Department of Energy designated three types of audits.
Type I – Preliminary or walk-thru audit
The simplest and quickest, this level of audit will prioritize energy-efficiency projects and determine the need for a more detailed audit. It consists of:
- Basic utility invoice analysis
- Interviews with site-operating personnel
- Operational data review
- Room-by-room walk-through of the facility to identify obvious areas of energy waste or inefficiency
Type II – Expanded Energy Audit
It expands on the preliminary audit by collecting more detailed information. This type of audit:
- Balances time, effort, and cost with more complete, accurate recommendations
- Focuses on specific building systems
- Provides sufficient data to make “go/no-go” investment decisions
- Has a higher degree of accuracy which maximizes savings, makes analysis easier, and simplifies implementation
The Type III – Comprehensive Audit
It 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 Comprehensive Audit can reveal opportunities to:
- Increase insulation levels
- Improve solar heat gain and loss through window replacement
- Reduce water usage
- Improve lighting efficiency, and more
California Energy Commission Building Energy Efficiency Program
Refer to the California Energy Commission Building Energy Efficiency Program for more cost savings opportunities and Title 24 requirements.
Additional Energy Audit Resources
Most utility providers offer commercial energy audits and depending on the level and type of audit requested.
Utility providers may include guidance on time of use management and demand response options, and customers may also receive information on rebate and incentive programs that may offset a significant amount of the project costs according to PG&E. Keep in mind, in order to qualify for tax incentives your equipment must meet U.S. Environmental Agency Energy star requirements.
