An energy audit is a detailed examination of how energy is used in a building, facility, or process with the aim of identifying opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce consumption, and lower energy costs. These audits can range from simple walk-through inspections to comprehensive analyses involving data collection, energy modeling, and financial assessments.

Types of Energy Audits

1. Walk-Through Audit (Preliminary Audit)

   • Quick assessment.

   • Identifies obvious energy-saving opportunities.

   • Low cost and time commitment.

   • Often used as a first step to determine if a deeper audit is needed.

2. General or Energy Survey Audit

   • More detailed than a walk-through.

   • Includes data collection (utility bills, equipment specs).

   • Suggests energy efficiency measures (EEMs) with estimated savings and costs.

   • Typically used for mid-sized facilities.

3. Investment-Grade Audit (IGA)

   • Comprehensive analysis with high accuracy.

   • Includes monitoring, detailed financial analysis, and ROI estimates.

   • Necessary for securing financing or performance contracts.

   • Common in large-scale or industrial projects.