How can you get the most out of outsourcing your energy audit?

1 Choose the right type of audit

Depending on your goals, budget, and facility, you may need a different type of energy audit. There are three main types of energy audits: walk-through, detailed, and investment-grade. A walk-through audit is the simplest and cheapest option, but it only provides a general overview of your energy use and potential savings. A detailed audit is more comprehensive and accurate, but it also costs more and takes longer. An investment-grade audit is the most thorough and expensive option, but it also provides the most detailed analysis and recommendations for energy efficiency projects. You should choose the type of audit that suits your needs and expectations, and communicate them clearly to your service provider.

2 Hire a qualified and experienced auditor

Not all energy auditors are created equal. You want to hire a service provider that has the qualifications, experience, and reputation to perform a high-quality energy audit. You should look for an auditor that has relevant certifications, such as Certified Energy Auditor (CEA) or Certified Energy Manager (CEM), and that has worked on similar projects in your industry or sector. You should also check their references, testimonials, and portfolio to see their track record and results. You should avoid hiring an auditor that offers low prices but delivers poor service or has conflicts of interest.

3 Prepare your data and documents

Before the audit begins, you should prepare your data and documents to facilitate the process and ensure accuracy. You should gather your utility bills, equipment specifications, operating schedules, maintenance records, and any previous energy audits or assessments. You should also provide your service provider with access to your facility, meters, and systems. You should make sure that your data and documents are up to date, complete, and organized, and that you share them with your auditor in advance.

4 Follow up on the audit report

Once the audit is completed, you should receive a report that summarizes your energy use, identifies your energy saving opportunities, and recommends actions to implement them. You should review the report carefully and ask your auditor any questions or clarifications you may have. You should also evaluate the feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and priority of the proposed measures, and develop a plan to implement them. You should not let the report sit on a shelf and collect dust, but use it as a guide to improve your energy management and performance.

5 Monitor and measure your results

After you implement the energy efficiency measures suggested by the audit report, you should monitor and measure your results to see if they match your expectations and goals. You should use the baseline data from the audit as a reference point, and compare it with your current data on energy use, costs, and savings. You should also track the performance of your equipment, systems, and processes, and identify any issues or deviations. You should report your results to your stakeholders, and celebrate your achievements and improvements.

6 Seek continuous improvement

Outsourcing your energy audit is not a one-time event, but a part of your ongoing energy management strategy. You should seek continuous improvement and update your energy audit regularly to reflect any changes in your facility, operations, or market conditions. You should also look for new opportunities to save energy and reduce your environmental impact, and learn from best practices and innovations in your industry or sector. You should maintain a good relationship with your service provider, and seek their feedback and support as needed.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?