Energy audit or water audit
An energy audit or water audit involves an analysis of how much energy you use, developing a breakdown of where it is used, and identifies and quantifies (costs, benefits) a range of energy saving opportunities. Typically greenhouse gas savings potential is also identified.
In Australia, audits undertaken to AS/NZS AS3598:2014 follow a robust methodology to assure audit quality. There are three types of AS/NZS AS3598:2014 audits to suit different circumstances. They provide the greatest benefit when undertaken within the context of an energy master plan or sustainability master plan. Internationally ISO 50002 is the recognised energy audit standard.
Energy assessment or water assessment
An energy assessment or water assessment is suited to smaller facilities, or to get a very rough idea of where opportunities to reduce energy use may exist. It comprises of a quick walk through of the facility followed by a brief report.
I can apply what I’ve learnt in undertaking energy audits (to AS/NZS 3598 and ISO 50002) and energy assessments of over 1,000 buildings in eight different countries to help you.
Bruce Rowse, Founder, 8020 Green
What about implementation?
If you are planning on commissioning an energy audit and/or water audit, please get in touch beforehand, to discuss your objectives and resources. Far too many energy audits remain nothing more than reports, with no action taken on the recommendations in them, and I’d like to help you avoid this happening, before you commission the audit.
Audit effectiveness using 8020 thinking
A local government had asked me to conduct energy audits of its smaller buildings, believing opportunities at the larger buildings had been exhausted. 8020 analysis showed that there was still better opportunity in the larger buildings. By retaining a focus on its larger buildings the council was able to achieve much more than it would have otherwise. A 42% carbon reduction was achieved in one of the largest buildings, saving more than whole carbon footprint of ten of the smaller buildings.
