Measure, Understand, and Reduce your GHG Emissions

What is an energy audit?

An energy audit is a comprehensive assessment of how energy is used within your premises throughout your operations. The goal of an energy audit is to identify where, when, and how energy is consumed with the ultimate objective of reducing energy usage where applicable to save costs. Although often overlooked by smaller businesses, energy audits are an effective tool for reducing energy-related operating costs. Here is a step-by-step overview of how an energy audit works: 

1. Initial Consultation: The process begins with an initial consultation where you discuss your energy usage, goals, and any specific concerns with the energy auditor.
2. Data Collection: The auditor will collect data on your energy consumption by reviewing utility bills, energy usage patterns, and existing equipment. This helps establish a baseline for your energy use.
3. Site Inspection: The auditor will conduct a walk-through of your premises to inspect lighting, heating, cooling, ventilation systems, and the building envelope (walls, roof, windows, and doors). They will look for areas where energy efficiency can be improved.
4. Energy Analysis: Using the collected data and observations from the site inspection, the auditor will analyze your energy consumption and identify opportunities for improvement. This may include comparing your energy performance to industry benchmarks.
5. Identifying Opportunities: The auditor will identify specific energy-saving opportunities, such as upgrading to energy-efficient lighting, improving insulation, optimizing HVAC systems, and implementing energy management practices.
6. Cost-Benefit Analysis: The auditor will provide a cost-benefit analysis of the recommended improvements, including the potential energy savings, costs of implementation, and payback periods.
7. Report and Recommendations: After the analysis, the auditor will compile a detailed report outlining their findings and recommendations. This report will include actionable steps you can take to improve energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
8. Implementation Plan: Based on the recommendations, you can develop an implementation plan to prioritize and execute the suggested improvements. This may involve working with contractors or suppliers to carry out the upgrades.
9. Monitoring and Verification: After implementing the recommended changes, it’s important to monitor your energy consumption to verify the effectiveness of the improvements. Regular monitoring can help ensure that you continue to achieve energy savings over time.

How much do energy audits cost? 

The cost of an energy audit for a small Canadian business can vary depending on the size of the premises and the complexity of the audit. Generally, you can expect the following price ranges:

1. Basic Energy Audit: Typically costs between $1,500 and $5,000. This includes a review of utility bills, a site inspection, and basic recommendations for energy-saving measures.
2. Comprehensive Energy Audit: More detailed audits can range from $5,000 to $15,000. These audits include in-depth analysis, detailed recommendations, and a cost-benefit analysis of proposed improvements.
3. Specialized Audits: For businesses with specific needs or larger premises, the cost can exceed $15,000. These audits may involve advanced diagnostics, such as thermal imaging and detailed energy modeling.

While the upfront cost of an energy audit might seem significant, the potential savings from implementing the recommended energy efficiency measures can often outweigh the initial investment. Additionally, many provinces offer incentives and rebates that can help offset the cost of the audit and subsequent improvements.

Financial incentive programs

Here are some incentives available in each Canadian province and territory to help cover the costs of an energy audit.