Energy Auditing
Energy audits can be a very effective way to gain an understanding of how energy is consumed in any building and can be the first step towards achieving real savings in energy consumption and carbon emissions.
There are numerous reasons for businesses to examine the manner in which they operate their facilities with a view to reducing energy consumption.
The introduction of a Carbon Tax on fossil fuels in May 2010 sees the “polluter pays” principal being
introduced to the energy sector in Ireland for the first time.
There are a number of incentives in place which provide financial aid to SMEs for the use of renewable energy technologies and energy efficient equipment.
The approach to auditing and analysing energy usage in any building must be proportionate to the energy costs of the building in question and relevant to the age and design of the building and services. In general, the approach we adopt is as follows
Desk Top Studies
Analysis of the historic energy consumption data (billed information) and benchmarking consumption data against industry norms. This process allows us to determine if the energy consumpution of a building is reasonable and gives us an indication of the degree to which savings can be made.
Site Investigations
Site investigations are conducted to gain an overall impression of the manner in which the facility is operated by the users. We will collect information on all elements of the HVAC plant and lighting systems and identify areas where inefficiencies exist. Analysis of Operation & Maintenance Manuals and as built drawings where available can also be useful in highlighting areas where improvements can be made.
Reporting
Collating all of the information gathered during the desktop study and the site investigation and preparation of an overall report on the findings of the analysis.
Reports will identify any areas where savings can be achieved, focusing primarily on the zero/low cost items that will deliver real reductions in energy consumption.
Secondary recommendation can also be provided which will raise issues that require either further detailed investigation (detailed on-site metering of specific areas for example) or which would require a more substantial level of investment in new plant or equipment.
Special Investigations
Following on from the findings of initial studies, more detailed analysis can be tailored to areas of the building where potential savings have been identified.
Detailed financial appraisals of proposed improvements in specific items of plant or investment in low/zero carbon technologies will establish the business case for any upgrades.