An energy audit is a process that identifies areas where energy is being wasted in a business. It can be conducted by a professional auditor or by the business owner themselves.
The audit will typically involve a review of the business’s energy bills, a walk-through of the building, and interviews with employees. The auditor will look for areas where energy can be saved through improved efficiency, such as by upgrading lighting, insulation, or installing renewable energy systems.
There are many benefits to conducting an energy audit, including:
- Reduced energy costs: The most obvious benefit of an energy audit is that it can help businesses save money on their energy bills. In fact, studies have shown that businesses can save an average of 10-20% on their energy costs after conducting an audit.
- Improved efficiency: An energy audit can also help businesses improve their energy efficiency. This can lead to a number of benefits, such as reduced environmental impact, increased productivity, and improved employee morale.
- Increased compliance: In some cases, businesses may be required to conduct an energy audit in order to comply with government regulations. For example, businesses that operate in certain industries, such as manufacturing or healthcare, may be required to have an energy audit conducted every few years, or require to supply energy data as part of SECR requirements.
If you are a small business owner who is concerned about energy costs, I encourage you to consider conducting an energy audit. It is a relatively inexpensive and easy way to identify areas where you can save money and improve your business’s efficiency.
Here are some additional tips for small business owners who are considering conducting an energy audit:
- Get quotes from multiple auditors. There are many different energy auditors who offer their services to small businesses. It is important to get quotes from multiple auditors so that you can compare prices and services.
- Be prepared to provide information about your business. The auditor will need to gather information about your business’s energy use, such as your energy bills and the type of equipment you use.
- Be open to suggestions. The auditor may make suggestions for improvements that you may not have considered. It is important to be open to these suggestions and to consider implementing them if they make sense for your business.
An energy audit can be a valuable tool for small business owners who are looking to save money and improve their business’s efficiency. By following the tips above, you can ensure that you get the most out of your audit.
How much does an energy audit cost UK?
The cost of an energy audit for a small business in the UK varies depending on the size and complexity of the business, as well as the type of audit that is required. However, in general, energy audits for small businesses typically cost between £500 and £1,500.
There are a number of factors that can affect the cost of an energy audit, including:
- The size of the business: Larger businesses will typically require a more comprehensive audit than smaller businesses.
- The complexity of the business: Businesses with a variety of energy-using equipment or processes will typically require a more complex audit than businesses with a simpler energy profile.
- The type of audit: There are two main types of energy audits: on-site audits and off-site audits. On-site audits involve a qualified auditor visiting the business and conducting a physical inspection of the premises. Off-site audits involve the auditor reviewing energy bills and other data without visiting the business. Off-site audits are typically less expensive than on-site audits.
How do you carry out an energy audit?
An energy audit is a process of identifying and quantifying energy use in a building or facility. The goal of an energy audit is to identify opportunities for energy efficiency improvements that can save the business money on its energy bills.
There are two main types of energy audits: on-site audits and off-site audits.
- On-site audits involve a qualified auditor visiting the business and conducting a physical inspection of the premises. The auditor will look for areas where energy is being wasted, such as through inefficient lighting, heating, and cooling systems. The auditor will also recommend ways to improve the energy efficiency of the business, such as by installing energy-efficient lighting or upgrading the heating and cooling system.
- Off-site audits involve the auditor reviewing energy bills and other data without visiting the business. The auditor will use this information to identify areas where energy is being wasted and recommend ways to improve the energy efficiency of the business.
How much does an energy audit save?
The amount of money that an energy audit can save a business depends on a number of factors, including the size of the business, the type of audit that is conducted, and the recommendations that are made. However, studies have shown that energy audits can save businesses an average of 10-20% on their energy bills.
In addition to saving money, energy audits can also help businesses to improve their environmental performance. By reducing their energy consumption, businesses can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to a cleaner environment.
If you are a small business owner, you should consider having an energy audit conducted. An energy audit can help you to save money, improve your environmental performance, and make your business more sustainable.