What is an Energy Audit?

A commercial energy audit is an assessment of a building or facility to identify opportunities to reduce energy use, lower carbon emissions and save money. Through an energy audit, you can learn how to better manage your energy use and improve the efficiency of your operations. Green Zone Surveys (UK) Ltd can provide Level 1, Level 2 or Level 3 energy audits in compliance with the methodology outlined in with ISO 50002 or BS EN 16247: 2012.

The audit is carried out by a qualified energy auditor and, depending on what level of audit is being carried out, can provide an analysis of the building’s energy use, sources, systems and equipment. They can also look at how the building is insulated, how lighting and other electrical devices are used, and how other energy sources, such as gas, are managed.

The report will include a list of recommendations on how to improve the building’s energy performance, allowing businesses to make informed decisions on what changes need to be made. A commercial energy audit is an important step in managing energy costs and ensuring that a business is taking advantage of all available energy-saving opportunities.

 

Reasons to have a Commercial Energy Audit

Energy audits are essential for any business that wants to increase their operational efficiency and reduce their overall costs. An audit will reveal areas where energy is being used inefficiently, which could lead to significant cost savings. Additionally, an energy audit can help a business determine how to best invest in energy-efficiency technologies, such as LED lighting, energy-efficient appliances, or energy monitoring systems. 

Typically, energy saving opportunities can be up to 20%. Business energy audits provide data that can be used to understand current energy usage and track changes over time. This data can help businesses make informed decisions about how they can reduce their energy consumption and achieve their sustainability goals.

In addition to reducing costs and increasing efficiency, businesses can also benefit from improved customer satisfaction. Energy audits allow businesses to demonstrate their commitment to environmental responsibility, which can be a powerful marketing tool. Businesses can also use the findings of an energy audit to develop strategies for reducing their carbon footprint and improving their environmental performance.

Reasons to have a Commercial Energy Audit
What happens during an Energy Audit?

What happens during an Energy Audit?

Commercial energy audits are undertaken by our experienced energy surveyors, who will identify and assess energy use within your business, using our revolutionary GreenAudit software. The audit typically begins with a desk based analysis of your energy bills and load profile. We will then visit your building and conduct a walk-through survey, during which the auditor will take note of any inefficient lighting, HVAC systems, and insulation.

Our assessors will also assess the building’s envelope windows, doors, and other openings that can let in or out air—to determine if the building is losing energy through these points. They will also review operational and management practices.

Once the walkthrough is complete and depending on the audit level, our auditor may suggest additional testing techniques such as thermal imaging, air tightness testing, or duct leakage tests to get a more accurate understanding of the building’s energy use. After all of the data is collected, it is analysed to determine which areas of the building are using the most energy, and what changes can be made to improve efficiency. We will then produce a report that outlines the findings and suggests ways to reduce energy consumption.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some frequently asked questions to provide you with further information about this service.

What will an Energy Audit reveal?

The energy survey, or audit, will uncover potential problems that may lead to higher energy costs, such as improper insulation, leaky windows and doors, inefficient lighting, and outdated equipment. All of our commercial energy audits also provide specific, actionable recommendations for improving the building's energy efficiency, including information about the estimated cost savings of implementing those changes.

What happens during an Energy Audit?

Commercial energy audits are undertaken by our experienced energy surveyors, who are specially trained in identifying and assessing energy use within businesses. The audit typically begins with a walk-through survey of the building, during which the auditor will take note of any inefficient lighting, HVAC systems, and insulation. They will also assess the building’s envelope—windows, doors, and other openings that can let in or out air—to determine if the building is losing energy through these points. They will also review operational and management practices. 
 

Once the walkthrough is complete, the auditor may choose to use additional testing techniques such as thermal imaging, blower door testing, and duct blaster tests to get a more accurate understanding of the building’s energy use. After all of the data is collected, it is analysed to determine which areas of the building are using the most energy, and what changes can be made to improve efficiency. The auditor will then produce a report that outlines the findings and suggests ways to reduce energy consumption. Our approach is in line with guidance developed by CIBSE and the Carbon Trust.

When should you have an energy audit?

In general, it’s a good idea to conduct a commercial energy audit every two to five years to ensure that your business is operating at maximum efficiency. You should also conduct one any time you make major changes or additions to the building or its systems, such as installing a new HVAC system or replacing windows. An energy audit can give you the information you need to make sound decisions and create a more sustainable business.
 

For a clear, informative review of your energy usage with actionable insights, contact us now on 0344 499 7574, or email us at info@greenzonesurveys.com.

What are the differences in energy audit levels?

The level of energy audit will depend on the needs of the business:

Level one – basic evaluation and recommendations

Level two – calculates savings and investment costs

Level three (Investment Grade Audit) – details preliminary equipment designs and costs.
 

Level 1 Energy Audit
Level 1 Energy Audit

Uncover energy efficiency opportunities with a Level 1 Commercial Energy Audit.

 

A Level 1 commercial energy audit is a fundamental evaluation that provides an overview of a building's energy consumption patterns and identifies potential areas for improvement.

Level 2 Energy Audit
Level 2 Energy Audit

Delve deeper into your energy systems with a Level 2 Commercial Energy Audit.

 

A Level 2 commercial energy audit is a comprehensive assessment conducted to evaluate the energy efficiency of a commercial building in greater detail.

Level 3 Energy Audit
Level 3 Energy Audit

Identify and evaluate energy conservation measures with a Level 3 Commercial Energy Audit.

 

A Level 3 energy audit represents the most comprehensive and detailed assessment of a commercial building's energy efficiency, often concentrating on specific opportunities or issues.

Contact us for an assessment

Get In Touch
Altius
Safe Contractor
ciob
Construction Online Gold Member
Achilles
Energy Institute Company Member