The primary goal of an energy audit is to quantify how the building systems are performing in terms of energy, how that performance can be enhanced, and the results in terms of tangible and nontangible savings.
Audits vary in detail, it depends on the configuration of the building energy systems, client expectations from the study the scope and the project parameters set by the client, and the scope and additionality added by the auditor.
The ASHRAE Level 1 audit alternatively is called a “walk-through audit” or “Basic audit”. It is the initial point to start optimization of building energy usage. It involves interactions with site operating personnel, desk review of the log records of the utility operations, their energy consumptions, and a walk-through of the building.
The next level is to move towards ASHRAE Level II Audit. This study includes a detailed study of all the major and individual loads/processes/activities happening inside the building and their evaluations in terms of energy performances and comfort levels. It should result in a comprehensive Audit report containing details of all the possible ECM (Energy Conservation Measures) as per their viability to implement at the facility. These ECM’s categorised into No/Low Cost, Medium Cost,and High Cost ECMs along with their Payback periods.
