An energy audit is a systematic approach that monitors, analyses and verifies energy use and energy consumption for the purpose of energy optimization. Energy audits identify, quantify and report on the opportunities for improved energy performance to reduce energy consumption per unit of product output and/or lower operation costs for facilities.

Level 1 Energy Audit

This will generally involve an analysis of the facility’s utility bills – with or without an Energy Star (or other) benchmark – and a brief survey of the facility. The recommendations resulting from a Level 1 audit do not usually include detailed cost and ROI analyses, but rather a general qualitative analysis of the facility’s energy use.

Level 2 Energy Audit

This provides a more detailed analysis of utility bills and a more comprehensive inspection of the facility, with identification of specific energy uses. Recommendations will include the estimated costs of implementing specific energy conservation measures (ECMs) and a quantitative ROI analysis.

Level 3 Energy Audit

This is generally an investment grade energy audit that provides a thorough field inspection of the facility, a detailed professional analysis of the energy use and potential improvements and ECMs, and may be signed and sealed by an independent third-party Professional Engineer registered in the state or territory in which the facility is located. A detailed report that includes estimated costs of ECMs, ROI and life-cycle cost analysis will be provided.