The term energy audit may seem overly formal and even a little unnecessary but any prudent plant manager needs to know where he stands in terms of energy usage. Industrial energy management opens doors for significant financial savings in energy bills and opportunities to enjoy rebates and discounts. If you are wondering what an energy audit is all about, below are a few crucial steps.
Collecting Data
The first step in the audit process is collecting crucial information. This typically entails considering the various energy processes and flows and their relationship. Data is collected within a predetermined period of time. It is important to include employees who have a clear understanding and experience of the systems in the data collecting stage. Once the data is collected and compiled, it is compared against what is standard in your specific industry.
Data Processing
A team of experts is set up to review and calculate the data. The main aim is to find out where efficiency improvements are most needed.
Results Analysis
This process includes identifying the most urgent and appropriate changes and justifying them. The team comes up with solid suggestions as well as quantifying the results. Some strategies may be geared towards reducing the overall energy bills while others are more focused on eligibility for energy upgrade California rebates. During this stage, discussions must take place surrounding what the changes might mean to the production process is effected. The most economically viable and result-oriented options are then picked for the next stage.
Recommendations
As the name suggests, this means that the experts recommend the most appropriate improvements. This information is typically presented in a manner that easy to understand as well as outlines the projected effect on the production process.
Some of the common factors that determine which recommendations may be picked include;
• Impact on technology and production
• Potential savings
• Potential ROI
• Potential investment
Economic Foundation
Finally, the last stage of the industrial energy audit is the laying of economic basis. This includes calculations and information on payback time. Other financial implications are also discussed during this stage including possible energy rebates and discounts. Only the most economically viable and advantageous recommendations may be eventually implemented.
It is necessary to hire an external energy management company to perform the audit. Such a company has the resources and personnel to perform an effective audit and make recommendations that make sense considering your specific industry.

Onsite Energy
Author: www.onsitenergy.com
Website: www.onsitenergy.com
2701 Loker Ave. West
Suite 107, Carlsbad, CA 92010
Phone: (760) 931-2400
[email protected]