A Guide to Energy Audits

Simple energy audits equip building owners with a list of no-cost or low-cost recommendations and a general road map for future planning. Many of these recommendations are easily implemented by operations and maintenance staff, and energy savings are seen almost immediately. Resulting cost savings can then be put toward future energy efficiency projects.

More complex energy audits provide a comprehensive energy efficiency capital investment plan in line with a building owner’s financial goals. This type of rigorous energy audit is typically part of a larger energy management program, and may include partnering with an energy services company to fully realize energy savings opportunities.

Whether you are looking for simple retrofits or a long-term investment project, an energy audit is the first step toward reducing energy use and improving the performance of facilities in your portfolio. This guide provides an overview of the energy audit process, including an overview of the different energy audit options available and information on how to select an energy auditor.