The Importance of energy efficiency
Cost savings and growth
Energy efficiency is important for businesses because of the energy and costs saving it can bring to them.
Lowering your outgoing costs, especially huge costs like energy bills, can inevitably bring business growth and longevity, with more of your revenue available to be funnelled into your business operations, staff, product/service upgrades and various other business elements.
This will eventually increase your customer base, product/service value and in turn result in the desired growth and stability every business owner is looking for.
Sustainability
Another benefit of energy efficiency is the sustainable aspect. Reducing your carbon footprint is a great way to not only help save the planet from global warming but can also keep your business compliant with pre-established and new regulations set out by the Government.
Attracting a customer base which is environmentally conscious can also be a huge benefit when you create a sustainable business model, attracting a wider customers base will of course lead to the previously mentioned growth.
What is an energy audit?
An energy audit is an inspection and analysis of the energy usage in a building or facility, the energy audit will identify opportunities for improving efficiency and reducing energy costs.
The objectives of an energy audit
The main objectives of an energy audit include:
Reduced energy consumption.
Reduction in outgoing costs.
Reduce Environmental impact.
Increase Equipment efficiency.
Keep your business compliant.
Create longevity and stability.
Key components of an audit
Energy Consumption analysis
This involves analysing the patterns and levels of energy usage within a system, building, or organisation to identify areas of high consumption and potential inefficiencies.
Identifying energy saving opportunities
This component focuses on pinpointing opportunities to reduce energy usage and improve efficiency, such as through equipment upgrades, behavioural changes, or operational adjustments.
Assessment of energy systems and equipment
This entails evaluating the performance and condition of energy systems and equipment, including HVAC systems, lighting, insulation, and appliances, to identify any deficiencies or areas for optimisation.
Recommendations for improvement
Based on the findings from the analysis and assessment, recommendations are provided to suggest specific actions or measures that can be implemented to enhance energy efficiency, reduce energy costs, and minimise environmental impact.
How do energy audits work?
Pre-audit preparation
Before conducting an energy audit, prier preparation is essential for the best results. This preparation involves setting clear goals and defining the scope of the audit.
Energy audit professionals will gather relevant data such as utility bills, building plans, and equipment specifications. They also establish communication channels with stakeholders and schedule site visits to so make sure there is fluidity and great communication throughout the audit.
This preparation stage ensures that the audit process is well-organised and focused on addressing specific energy efficiency goals.
Onsite assessment
The onsite assessment is a critical step in the energy audit process. Detailed inspections of the building or facility will be done to evaluate energy systems and equipment.
Examinations of various components, including HVAC systems, lighting fixtures, insulation, and appliances are conducted to evaluate performance and identify any issues contributing to energy waste.
Using specialised tools and techniques, auditors measure energy consumption patters and gather data to inform their analysis.
Analysis and reporting
Following the onsite assessment, energy auditors will analyse the collected data, this will be the key to identify opportunities for energy savings and the improvement of efficiency.
The auditors will then calculate energy usage, assess system efficiency, and compare current practices with industry standards and best practices.
Based on their findings, auditors generate comprehensive reports that outline recommendations for improvements. These recommendations may include equipment upgrades, behavioural changes, maintenance measures, or capital investments aimed at reducing energy costs and enhancing overall efficiency.
Conclusion
Energy audits are a great way for businesses to save costs, reduce their overall energy consumption, and become a more sustainable business.
The energy audit process can be as simple or as in-depth as the business owner or energy manager would like, resulting in the perfect solution for the needs of each unique business.
Industrion’s tool set
Industrion’s tools, Insight and SparkLab are innovative ways in which you can conduct your own energy audit, cutting out the middleman and taking you straight to the in-depth energy usage data. Along with real-time data from SparkLab, Insight can reveal a bird’s eye view of your energy consumption.
With these two FREE tools, your energy usage can be reduced and optimised, saving you money and creating stability in the long-term.