The definition of an Energy Survey is as follows: a technical investigation of the control and flow of energy with the aim of identifying cost-effective energy and carbon saving measures.
Energy surveys can be conducted on single sites, manufacturing process, utility systems or specific items of equipment. Usually surveys include an examination of:
- Energy conversion and control: where energy is converted from one form to another, e.g. lighting, heating, air conditioning, boilers, furnaces, refrigeration units, compressors, etc.
- Energy distribution: where energy is distributed, e.g. electricity, gas, steam, air, water, hot oil systems.
- Energy end use: where energy is used in plant, equipment and buildings.
- Management systems: how information is obtained, analysed, and used. Management and people issues.
An Energy Audit is a study to determine the quantity and cost of each form of energy to a: building, process/manufacturing unit, equipment or site over a given period (usually a year). An audit does not necessarily identify savings.
To determine the issues it is important to be able to answer the following questions:
- What types of energy are used?
- How much is being used?
- How much does it cost?
- Where and when is the energy being used?
- How efficiently is energy being controlled?
- What are the potential savings?
- How can they be achieved?
- How much will it cost to achieve the savings?
- What are the priority areas?
All the above can be answered by conducting an energy survey. The outcome of the survey is usually complied into a prioritised report outlining managerial actions and practical, cost effective technical recommendations.
The Carbon Trust estimates that managing energy effectively can save UK businesses between 10% and 30%. There are other benefits such as lower carbon emissions, less maintenance, better reliability and longer life.
Square [1] have associates that are Carbon Trust approved consultants specialising in energy measurement, building services, manufacturing technologies and renewables. We are able to carry out general or specific energy surveys to single or multisite organisations in the commercial or manufacturing sectors.