What is an Energy Audit?

An Energy Audit is the process of identification, survey and the analysis of Energy usage in a building. It is done to optimize the energy usage of the system i.e. Keeping the outputs the same while reducing the energy consumption. A successful energy audit results in energy and cost saving while also reducing the overall carbon footprint.

During an energy audit, health and safety are the primary concerns, while reducing energy consumption and maintaining human comfort. An energy audit seeks to prioritize the energy uses according to the most cost effective technique while keeping in mind the comfort levels.

With the publication of ANSI/ASHRAE/ACCA Standard 211-2018, energy audits can now be counted on to ensure consistency, accuracy and quality. The ASHRAE Commercial Buildings Energy Audits Reference defines best practices for energy survey and analysis for purchasers and providers of energy audit services.

NYC Energy Audit Process

The energy audit procedure in New York City, especially as per Local Law 87 (LL87), is an organized method aimed at evaluating and improving the energy efficiency of big buildings. This procedure is essential for structures exceeding 50,000 square feet, which must go through audits and retro-commissioning every decade.

The energy audit procedure in New York City, especially as per Local Law 87 (LL87), is an organized method aimed at evaluating and improving the energy efficiency of big buildings. This procedure is essential for structures exceeding 50,000 square feet, which must go through audits and retro-commissioning every decade.

1. Choosing a Competent Energy Auditor

The initial stage of the building energy audit NYC process involves employing a certified energy auditor. Property owners ought to consult experts who specialize in energy systems and efficiency methods. The auditor’s expertise and background are essential for a comprehensive evaluation.

2. Gathering Data

After an auditor is chosen, the subsequent phase entails thorough data gathering. This entails collecting data on the energy systems of the building, its operational methods, and past energy usage. Auditors usually examine utility statements, carry out on-site evaluations, and hold discussions with facility managers and personnel to grasp the operational dynamics of the building.

3. Field Research and Examination

The auditor performs fieldwork to collect comprehensive data on energy-using equipment, including HVAC systems, lighting, and appliances. This could entail utilizing diagnostic instruments to evaluate energy efficiency. The gathered information is subsequently examined to uncover trends in energy consumption and areas where efficiency could be enhanced.

4. Spotting Opportunities for Energy Savings

According to the analysis, auditors collaborate with property owners to identify possible energy-saving opportunities. These suggestions can vary from basic operational modifications—such as changing thermostat settings—to bigger investments in new technologies or system improvements, like better insulation or more effective lighting systems.

5. Reporting Findings

Upon finishing the audit, the auditor compiles an Energy Efficiency Report (EER) detailing the findings and suggestions. This document usually contains:

• An overview of energy usage and expenses.
• A study on Energy Use Intensity (EUI).
• Comprehensive outlines of suggested actions, including projected expenses and possible savings.
• Timelines for implementing proposed enhancements.

6. Submission and Compliance

Building owners must submit the EER to the NYC Department of Buildings by December 31 of the reporting year. Compliance with LL87 not only helps reduce energy costs but also contributes to NYC’s sustainability goals by minimizing greenhouse gas emissions.

The Energy Audit Process

The energy auditing process can be separated into two main steps, shown below:

• Walk-Through Analysis:  Energy Auditor Inspection and Interview
  The auditor will perform multiple tests throughout the building, take measurements, interview building owners and occupants, and locate energy-saving opportunities.  In total, this process usually takes between two to four hours to complete.
• Energy Survey and Analysis:  Report and Implementation
  Following the initial appointment, the auditor will provide a full description of problematic energy areas and then offer recommendations for energy systems partially based off of occupant tendencies.

Purpose of Energy Audits:

• Enhance building performance by saving energy and reducing operational costs.

• Identify and resolve building system operation, control and maintenance problems.

• Reduce or eliminate occupant complaints and increase tenant satisfaction.

• Improve indoor environmental comfort and quality + Reduce associated liability.

• Document system operations.

• Analyze the Operations & Maintenance (O&M) personnel training needs and provide such training.

• Minimize operational risk and increase asset value.

• Extend equipment life-cycle.

• Ensure the persistence of improvements over the building’s life.
• Address code issues.

Benefits of Energy Audits

• Greater Comfort – Energy Efficient homes are inherently comfortable because of better insulation, better cooling and fixed heating leaks.
• Improved Indoor Air Quality – During an energy audit, focus is also given on how the indoor air quality can be increased. The ventilation and Air Conditioning is scrutinized for proper operation.
• Greater Building Durability – One of the major aims of an energy audit is to ensure building longevity and durability. Attention is paid to leaks, moisture levels, ventilation and sun-proofing so as to maintain the buildings health.
• Higher Resale Value – With the energy prices increasing all the time, the value of energy efficient buildings always ensures high market value of your house as much as 20%. A little investment now ensures your home is valued higher than its counterparts down the road.

Time Required to Complete an Energy Audit

The duration necessary to finish a typical energy audit NYC can fluctuate drastically subject to the scale and intricacy of the building being inspected. Generally, here are the potential timeframes one might anticipate:

• Walk-Through Audits: For more modest structures, a basic on-site review commonly requires a few hours to an entire day. This type of assessment involves a visual scan to pinpoint obvious inefficiencies but does not necessitate comprehensive data accumulation.
• Comprehensive Audits: More detailed evaluations, incorporating thorough data compilation and examination, typically demand numerous days to weeks to finish. These assessments involve on-location inspections, intricate assessments of energy systems, and an exhaustive inspection of energy usage patterns.
• Investment-Grade Audits: The most extensive analyses, termed investment-grade audits, can require numerous weeks to months. This type of inspection involves an in-depth analysis of energy usage trends and possible energy-saving tactics.

Generally, the time essential for an energy evaluation is influenced by factors, for example, building scale, the number of systems being assessed, and the complexity of existing energy usage designs. Appropriate planning is pivotal to ensure minimal disruption to building operations during the evaluation method.

Understanding Local Law 87

Enacted in 2009 as part of the Greener, Greater Buildings Plan, LL87 targets big buildings over 50,000 square feet. The legislation mandates that these colossal constructions undergo thorough energy reviews every decade. The aim is to spot opportunities for saving energy that can trim utility costs while also lowering dangerous greenhouse gas emissions.

Key Components of LL87

• Energy Audit: This systematic scrutiny appraises a structure’s energy infrastructure, like heating, air conditioning, illumination, and appliances. The evaluation recognizes inefficiencies and proposes financially sound enhancements.

Retro-Commissioning: This process ensures that the present building systems function as planned. It involves tweaking systems to boost performance and remedy shortcomings.

The Cotocon Group has energy audit professionals with vast experience. Use of technology such as thermal simulations and the use of experience goes a long way in creating the best audit report.

In New York City, laws like the Local Law 87, require buildings larger than 50,000 sq. ft. to have an energy audit once every 10 years. The Local Law 87 requires a licensed Professional Engineer to oversee the work and The Cotocon Group handles these regularly. Similarly, Local Law 84 states that as of May 1, 2011 all buildings 50,000 square feet and larger must be ENERGY STAR Benchmarked and report their building’s energy & water use. These laws are the results of New York City’s PlaNYC, which aims to reduce wasted energy in buildings. Which are the greatest source of pollution in NYC.

The Cotocon Group can manage Local Law 84 requirements and start saving you money on building operations, making your building more competitive. We have a group of experienced professionals qualified to carry out these tasks.