Are you looking to make your business more energy efficient and cost-effective? An energy audit could be the answer. But just what is an energy audit, and is it right for your business? In this guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of energy audits, so you can decide if it’s something that could benefit your business.

What is a business energy audit?

A business energy audit is a comprehensive evaluation of a company’s energy usage and energy efficiency practices. The goal of a business energy audit is to identify areas where energy is being used inefficiently and to make recommendations for reducing energy consumption and gaining energy savings.

The energy audit process typically involves a thorough analysis of a company’s energy costs, green energy suppliers, equipment, and processes. An auditor may inspect the facility, conduct interviews with employees, and gather data on energy usage patterns helping to reduce energy costs and business energy bills.

What are the benefits of doing a business energy audit?

As businesses look for ways to reduce costs and improve efficiency, many are turning to business energy audits as a way to identify opportunities for improvement. Below are the many benefits of conducting a business energy audit for companies of all sizes.

1. Cost savings: One of the most significant benefits of an energy audit is the potential for cost savings. By identifying areas where energy is being used inefficiently and energy prices, the audit process can provide recommendations for reducing your energy consumption and costs. For example, the audit may identify opportunities to upgrade to more sustainable equipment, a green supplier, different tariffs or implement energy-saving policies. By implementing these recommendations, companies can often reduce their energy bills by 10-30%, providing a significant boost to their bottom line.
2. Improved energy efficiency: An energy audit can also help an organisation improve their energy efficiency, which can have a positive impact on the environment. By reducing gas and electricity waste and using energy more efficiently, companies can lower their carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. For companies looking to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability, this can be a key advantage in attracting and retaining customers as it may be more attractive to customers and investors who are looking for environmentally responsible businesses.
3. Increased competitiveness: Companies that adopt greener practices can gain a competitive advantage in their industry by reducing their operating costs and demonstrating their commitment to sustainability. In a world where consumers are increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of businesses, this can be a key differentiator for companies looking to separate themselves from their competitors in the market.
4. Better understanding: Another benefit of a business energy saving audit is that it can help companies gain a better understanding of their energy use patterns. By analyzing energy use data and identifying areas where improvements can be made, companies can make informed decisions about their energy use and sustainability goals. This information can be valuable for future planning and decision-making, allowing companies to continuously improve their energy efficiency over time.
5. Current energy regulations: Finally, in some locations and industries, there may be regulations or requirements for energy efficiency. An energy audit can help companies comply with these regulations and avoid potential penalties. Additionally, by reducing their energy consumption and costs, companies can free up resources to invest in other areas of their business.

How much does a commercial energy audit cost?

The goal of the audit is to identify areas where energy is being used inefficiently and make recommendations for reducing energy consumption and costs. But how much does a commercial energy audit cost, and is it worth the investment?

The cost of a commercial energy audit can vary widely depending on the size and complexity of the business, as well as the type of audit being performed. On average, a basic energy audit can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. For larger businesses or those with more complex energy needs, the cost can be significantly higher.

It’s important to keep in mind that the cost of an energy audit is often a small fraction of the potential savings that can be achieved. By identifying areas where energy is being used inefficiently and making recommendations for improvement, companies can often reduce their energy bills by 10-30%. The cost savings from these improvements can more than offset the cost of the audit, making it a wise investment for many businesses.

In some cases, government agencies or utility companies may offer financial incentives or funding for energy audits. For example, they may offer to cover a portion of the cost of the audit or provide tax credits for energy-efficient upgrades. This can significantly reduce the cost of an energy audit and make it even more attractive for businesses to pursue.

It’s important to note that not all energy audits are created equal. Some audits may be more comprehensive than others, including more detailed analysis and recommendations. It’s important to understand what is included in the cost of the audit and what the potential savings are likely to be. Some companies may offer a guarantee for the cost savings achieved through the implementation of the audit’s recommendations, which can be a valuable reassurance for business owners.

When choosing a company to perform an energy audit, it’s important to consider their experience and qualifications. Look for companies that have a proven track record of conducting successful energy audits and can provide references from satisfied clients. It’s also important to choose a company that uses the latest tools and technology to perform the audit, as this can help ensure that the results are accurate and up-to-date.

How do you conduct an energy audit?

Conducting an energy audit can seem overwhelming, but with the right approach, it can be a straightforward and valuable process. Here is a step-by-step guide to conducting a successful energy audit.

Step 1: Gather Energy Usage Data

The first step in conducting an energy audit is to gather data on your company’s energy usage. This can be done through a review and checklist of utility bills, energy data logs, and other records. You should gather data on energy levels over a period of several months to get an accurate picture of energy consumption patterns. This information will be used to identify areas where energy is being used inefficiently and to develop recommendations for improvement.

Step 2: Conduct a Walk-Through of Your Facilities

The next step in conducting an energy audit is to conduct a walk-through of your facilities. During the walk-through, you should look for areas where energy is being used inefficiently and identify any potential sources of waste. This can include things like leaky windows, poorly insulated walls, and outdated lighting systems. You should also pay attention to areas where energy is being used during periods of low occupancy, such as overnight or on weekends.

Step 3: Analyze Energy Usage Data

After you have gathered data on energy levels and conducted a walk-through of your facilities, it’s time to analyze the data. This can involve using energy management software or other tools to identify areas where energy is being used inefficiently. You should look for patterns in energy levels, such as spikes during certain times of day or week, and identify areas where energy use can be reduced.

Step 4: Develop Recommendations for Improvement

Based on the analysis of energy usage data and the results of the walk-through, it’s time to develop recommendations for improvement. These can include upgrades to heating and cooling systems, improvements to insulation and air sealing, and the installation of energy-efficient lighting. You should prioritize recommendations based on the potential for cost savings and the feasibility of implementation.

Step 5: Implement Recommendations

The final step in conducting an energy audit is to implement the recommendations for improvement. This can involve making upgrades to heating and cooling systems, switching to a new energy provider,  improving insulation and air sealing, and installing energy-efficient lighting. You should work with a qualified contractor to ensure that the upgrades are performed correctly and in compliance with local codes and regulations.