How to conduct an Energy Audit
Conducting an energy audit is a valuable method for reducing energy usage as it allows you to identify and document areas of inefficiency. You can use bills and meter readings to investigate energy use and can carry out an Energy Walk-Round to identify inefficiencies.
Using Bills and Meter Readings to Investigate Energy Use
- Compare Energy Bills: Look for trends or anomalies in your energy bills over time.
- Analyse Meter Readings: Track usage patterns and identify high-consumption periods.
- Benchmarking: Compare your energy usage with industry standards or similar businesses.
Carrying out an Energy Walk-Round
Begin by understanding the purpose and scope of your energy walk-around. Define the areas you want to assess (e.g., heating, lighting, equipment usage) and the objectives you aim to achieve (e.g., identifying energy inefficiencies, reducing costs).
- Gather Relevant Information: Collect recent energy bills and any available meter readings. Note down specific concerns or areas of focus (e.g., complaints about high heating bills, inefficient lighting).
- Schedule the Walk-Round: Set a date and time to conduct the energy walk-around. Ensure key stakeholders are involved, such as maintenance staff or relevant department heads.
- Walk-Through Checklist: Prepare a structured checklist to guide your assessment. This should cover key areas of energy consumption like heating systems, lighting fixtures, equipment usage, etc.
Example Energy Walk-Round Checklist
Here’s a sample checklist you can adapt based on your specific needs:
- Heating
- Check thermostat settings and timing.
- Inspect for leaks in heating systems.
- Evaluate insulation levels.
- Equipment and Heat Usage
- Assess efficiency of machinery and equipment.
- Identify any unnecessary heat sources.
- Controls and Timing
- Verify timers and automation settings.
- Ensure equipment is not left running unnecessarily.
- Draughts and Avoiding Heat Loss
- Inspect for air leaks around doors and windows.
- Check seals on windows and vents.
- Lighting
- Evaluate types of bulbs and fixtures used.
- Consider occupancy sensors or timers for lighting control.
- In the Office
- Assess computer and equipment energy usage.
- Look for opportunities to optimize temperature settings.
- In the Factory/Warehouse
- Check lighting levels and efficiency in different areas.
- Examine usage patterns of heavy machinery.
- Compressed Air
- Review air compressor settings and usage.
- Identify leaks in compressed air systems.
- Electrical Equipment
- Assess standby power consumption.
- Ensure efficient use of office equipment (printers, copiers).
- Refrigeration
- Inspect refrigeration units for efficiency.
- Check door seals and temperature settings.
There is also a useful downloadable checklist from the Carbon Trust here:
Conclusion
By systematically evaluating these areas and using the checklist as a guide, you can pinpoint energy hotspots and areas for improvement. Engage with staff to gather insights and collaborate on implementing changes to maximise energy efficiency and reduce costs.