How can you identify emerging trends in energy audit methods?

2 Use online tools and platforms

Another way to identify emerging trends in energy audit methods is to use online tools and platforms that provide access to data, analytics, and insights on energy efficiency and performance. For example, ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager is a free online tool that allows you to benchmark your buildings against similar ones, track your energy use and savings, and generate reports and recommendations. Similarly, Building Energy Asset Score is a web-based tool that evaluates the physical and structural characteristics of your buildings and provides a score based on their energy efficiency potential. By using these tools and platforms, you can discover new opportunities and strategies for improving your energy audits.

4 Experiment with new technologies

A fourth way to identify emerging trends in energy audit methods is to experiment with new technologies that can enhance your energy audit process and results. For example, you can use drones, sensors, cameras, or thermal imaging devices to collect data and images of your buildings and facilities from different angles and perspectives. You can also use software, apps, or cloud-based platforms to analyze, visualize, and report your data and findings. For example, Snugg Pro is a software that helps you create customized energy audit reports and proposals based on your data and goals. By experimenting with new technologies, you can improve your efficiency, accuracy, and quality of your energy audits.

5 Monitor regulatory changes

A fifth way to identify emerging trends in energy audit methods is to monitor regulatory changes that affect the energy efficiency and performance requirements and incentives for buildings and facilities. For example, you should be aware of the federal, state, and local laws and regulations that mandate or encourage energy audits, such as the Energy Policy Act of 2005, the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, or the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program. You should also be familiar with the tax credits, rebates, grants, or loans that are available for energy audits and improvements, such as the Business Energy Investment Tax Credit, the Energy Efficient Commercial Buildings Deduction, or the Property Assessed Clean Energy Program. By monitoring regulatory changes, you can align your energy audit methods with the current and future standards and opportunities.