1.
Introduction
An energy audit is a careful check of how energy is used in a building or system. It
helps find out where energy is being wasted and suggests ways to use it better. During an
energy audit, experts look at things like lighting, heating, cooling, and machines to see how
much energy they use. The main goal is to save energy, lower electricity bills, and reduce
harm to the environment. By making simple changes or upgrades, a building can become
more energy-efficient. Energy audits are useful for homes, schools, offices, and factories.
I. Planning and Preparation – Collect energy bills and basic information.
II. Site Inspection – Visit the location to observe energy usage.
III. Data Collection – Record details of equipment and operations.
IV. Data Analysis – Analyze energy use patterns and find inefficiencies.
V. Recommendations – Suggest ways to save energy and reduce waste.
VI. Report Preparation – Summarize findings and proposed actions.
VII. Follow-up – Monitor improvements and check savings (optional).
No. Type Of Instrument Function How To Use
1. Electrical Measuring Instrument Measure electrical Connect the
parameters like voltage, instrument (e.g.,
current, power, energy clamp meter or
consumption, and power multimeter) to the
factor. electrical panel or
circuit. For
accurate energy
audit results,
measure during
different load
conditions.
2. Combustion Analyzer Measures the efficiency of Insert the
combustion equipment by analyzer probe
analyzing gases like CO, into the flue or
CO₂, and O₂ in flue gases. exhaust duct of a
boiler or furnace
while it is
operating.
3. Contact Thermometer Measures surface Place the probe
temperature through direct on the object’s
contact. surface (like a
pipe or motor
casing). Wait until
the reading
stabilizes.
4. Infrared Thermomter Measures temperature from Point the laser at
a distance using infrared the target area
radiation. and pull the
trigger to read the
surface
temperature. Ideal
for hot or moving
parts.
5. Pitot Tube and Manometer Measures fluid flow Insert the pitot
velocity and air pressure in tube into the
ducts or pipes. airflow and
connect it to the
manometer to
read pressure
difference, which
is used to
calculate velocity.
6. Water Flow Meter Measures the flow rate of Install inline or
water in a system. clamp-on to a
pipe depending
on type
(mechanical,
ultrasonic, or
magnetic) and
observe the flow
rate displayed.
7. Speed Measurement Measure the rotational Use a digital
speed (RPM) of motors, tachometer; aim it
fans, or other rotating at a reflective
machinery. mark on the
rotating shaft and
read the speed.
8. Leak Detectors Identify leaks in Pass the sensor
compressed air, gas, or along joints,
refrigerant systems. valves, or fittings.
The device will
indicate a leak
through sound,
light, or reading.
9. Lux Meters Measure the intensity of Place the sensor
light in a particular area at the desired
(illuminance). location (e.g.,
workbench or
office desk), and
read the lux value
directly.
3. Categorize process involve in the implemented energy audit
The process involved in an implemented energy audit can be categorized into the following
main stages:
I. Pre-Audit Phase
• Define objectives and scope
• Collect historical energy data (bills, usage patterns)
• Select audit team and prepare tools
II. Audit Phase (On-site Assessment)
• Conduct walkthrough and detailed inspection
• Measure energy usage of equipment and systems
• Identify energy waste areas
• Interview staff or operators (if needed)
III. Post-Audit Phase
• Analyze collected data
• Compare with benchmarks or standards
• Develop energy-saving recommendations
• Estimate cost savings and payback period
IV. Implementation Phase
• Prioritize and apply recommended measures
• Upgrade equipment or change practices
• Train staff (if required)
V. Monitoring and Verification
• Track energy usage after implementation
• Evaluate savings and performance
• Adjust strategies as needed for continuous improvement
These categories ensure that the energy audit is systematic, practical, and leads to effective
energy-saving actions.
3. Analysis and Identification of Energy Conservation Measures (ECMs)
This step is a crucial part of the energy audit process where collected data is carefully
examined to find opportunities for saving energy. The main goal is to identify Energy
Conservation Measures (ECMs)—practical steps or improvements that can reduce energy use
without affecting performance or comfort.
Key Activities Involved:
I. Data Analysis
• Review energy consumption patterns.
• Compare current usage with standard benchmarks or similar facilities.
• Identify systems or equipment using excessive energy.
II. Spotting Inefficiencies
• Look for outdated, oversized, or poorly maintained equipment.
• Detect unnecessary energy usage during off-hours.
• Find areas with heat loss, air leaks, or poor insulation.
III. Identifying ECMs
• Propose low-cost/no-cost actions (e.g., turning off unused lights, fixing leaks).
• Suggest equipment upgrades (e.g., LED lighting, efficient HVAC systems).
• Recommend process or behavior changes to improve energy use.
IV. Estimating Impact
• Calculate potential energy savings for each ECM.
• Estimate implementation cost and payback period.
• Prioritize ECMs based on cost-effectiveness and ease of application.
By analyzing the data and identifying ECMs, energy auditors can create a targeted action plan
that helps reduce energy costs and environmental impact while improving overall efficiency.
4. Reporting
Reporting is the final step in an energy audit. It means putting all the findings, ideas, and
suggestions into a clear and organized document that can be shared with others. This report
helps people understand how energy is being used, where it is being wasted, and how to fix it.
What the Report Should Include:
1. What Was Done
A simple explanation of the energy audit process and what areas were checked.
2. What Was Found
Details of energy use, problems like energy waste, and systems that need improvement
3. Suggestions to Save Energy
Smart tips like changing to LED lights, turning off machines when not in use, or fixing leaks.
4. Benefits of the Changes
Shows how much energy and money can be saved.
Includes how fast the cost of upgrades can be recovered.
5. Next Steps
A plan of what actions should be taken and in what order.
6. Charts and Pictures (if needed)
Helps make the information easier to understand.
A good report should be clear, honest, and helpful so that the building owner or manager can
take action to improve energy use and save money.
5. Explain detailed energy audit process
An energy audit is a systematic approach to assess how energy is being used in a
facility, identify inefficiencies, and recommend improvements to reduce energy
consumption and costs. Here's a detailed explanation of the energy audit process,
typically broken down into several phases:
1. Preliminary Phase: Planning and Preparation
a. Define Audit Objectives
Understand the purpose (e.g., cost savings, sustainability goals, compliance).
Decide the type of audit: walk-through, detailed, or investment-grade.
b. Form Audit Team
Include energy managers, engineers, maintenance staff, and possibly external
consultants.
c. Data Collection
Gather historical energy consumption data (electricity, gas, water, etc.) for at least 12
months.
Collect utility bills, equipment specifications, operational schedules, and building
layout.
2. Site Visit and Data Gathering
a. Walkthrough Inspection
Visually inspect the facility and systems: lighting, HVAC, motors, boilers,
compressors, insulation, etc.
Note operational practices and behavior.
b. Measurement and Monitoring
Use instruments like:
• Power meter
• Thermographic cameras
• Data loggers
• Flow meters
Record parameters like voltage, current, power factor, temperature, airflow, etc.
c. Interview Staff
• Understand how energy is used during different shifts or seasons.
• Get insight into issues or constraints.
3. Data Analysis and Diagnosis
a. Energy Balance
Calculate where and how much energy is used (energy flow diagram).
Identify energy-intensive processes.
b. Benchmarking
Compare energy performance with standards (e.g., BEE, ENERGY STAR) or similar
facilities.
c. Identify Inefficiencies
Detect wastage, leaks, or unnecessary usage
Spot oversized or underperforming equipment.
4. Recommendations and Reporting
a . Energy Conservation Measures (ECMs)
Suggest improvements like:
• LED lighting
• Variable frequency drives (VFDs)
• Efficient motors
• Better insulation
• Renewable energy integration
• Classify by cost: no-cost, low-cost, and capital-intensive.
b. Financial Analysis
• Estimate savings, payback period, ROI, and lifecycle cost.
• Prioritize measures based on feasibility and impact.
c. Detailed Report
Include:
• Executive summary
• Facility profile
• Data and analysis
• ECMs and financials
• Monitoring plan
5. Implementation and Monitoring
a. Action Plan
• Timeline, responsibilities, budget for implementing ECMs.
b. Training and Awareness
• Educate staff on energy-efficient practices.
c. Monitoring and Verification
• Track performance post-implementation using energy management systems
(EMS).
• Adjust strategies as needed.
5. Conclusion
An energy audit is a crucial step toward achieving energy efficiency, cost
savings, and environmental sustainability. By systematically analyzing how
energy is consumed in a facility, it helps identify areas of waste, optimize system
performance, and recommend practical energy conservation measures (ECMs).
The audit not only reveals immediate opportunities for savings through low-cost
or no-cost changes but also helps in planning long-term investments in energy-
efficient technologies. Beyond financial benefits, it supports compliance with
energy regulations and contributes to reducing the carbon footprint.
In summary, an energy audit is a powerful tool that provides a clear roadmap for
improving energy performance, enhancing operational efficiency, and supporting
sustainable development goals.
6. References
I. Books & Manuals:
• Bureau of Energy Efficiency. (2010). Guide book for National
Certification Examination for Energy Managers and Energy Auditors:
Book 1–General aspects of energy management and energy audit. Ministry
of Power, Government of India.
• Capehart, B. L., Turner, W. C., & Kennedy, W. J. (2020). Guide to energy
management (8th ed.). Fairmont Press.
II. Standards & Reports:
• American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning
Engineers (ASHRAE). (2011). ASHRAE Standard 211-2018: Standard for
Commercial Building Energy Audits. ASHRAE.
• International Energy Agency (IEA). (2021). Energy efficiency 2021.
https://www.iea.org/reports/energy-efficiency-2021
III. Web Resources:
• U.S. Department of Energy. (n.d.). Energy audits. Office of Energy
Efficiency & Renewable Energy.
https://www.energy.gov/eere/buildings/energy-audits
• Energy Star. (n.d.). Conducting an energy audit.
https://www.energystar.gov/buildings/save_energy_commercial_buildings/
energy_star_buildings_and_plants/conduct_energy_audit