Level 3 Energy Audit - ASHRAE - Comprehensive Audit

What Is an ASHRAE Level 3 Audit?

An ASHRAE Level 3 energy audit, also known as an Investment-Grade Audit (IGA), is the most detailed and thorough assessment of your facility’s energy performance. Designed for facilities with complex systems or high energy demands, this audit delivers in-depth engineering analysis and economic evaluation to support large-scale energy efficiency projects and capital investments.

What’s Included in a Level 3 Audit?

1 . Comprehensive Data Collection

• Utilize advanced diagnostic tools and techniques to gather precise data on system performance, energy usage, and operational practices.
• Conduct detailed metering and monitoring to capture time-specific energy patterns and peak demands.

2. In-Depth Engineering Analysis

• Perform advanced modeling of energy systems to simulate current performance and potential improvements.
• Analyze the interactions between building systems to uncover deeper energy-saving opportunities.

3. Detailed Evaluation of Energy Conservation Measures (ECMs)

• Provide a robust list of ECMs with comprehensive technical and financial analyses, including:
– Energy Savings Projections: Detailed quantification of potential reductions in energy use.
– Capital Costs: Accurate cost estimates for implementing each measure.
– Operational Impact: Assessment of how each measure affects facility operations.
– Payback Period and ROI: Full economic breakdown to guide decision-making.
– Environmental Impact: Include metrics like CO2 reduction and sustainability benefits.

4. Custom Roadmap for Implementation

• Develop a phased action plan for implementing ECMs, prioritizing projects based on cost-effectiveness, energy impact, and operational feasibility.
• Identify funding options, incentives, and rebates to offset project costs.

5. Investment-Grade Report

• Present findings in a detailed, professional report designed to support investment decisions.
• Include actionable recommendations, technical specifications, and financial metrics to help stakeholders move forward confidently.

Benefits of a Level 3 Audit

• Comprehensive Insights: Gain a complete understanding of your facility’s energy systems and savings potential.
• Investment Confidence: Detailed financial analysis ensures sound decision-making for major projects.
• Optimized Performance: Identify long-term solutions for reducing energy costs and enhancing operational efficiency.
• Sustainability Leadership: Drive significant reductions in carbon emissions and energy use.

Ideal Applications for Level 3 Audits

• Large-Scale Facilities: Industrial plants, hospitals, campuses, and high-energy-consuming buildings.
• Capital-Intensive Projects: Facilities seeking to justify significant energy efficiency or renewable energy investments.
• Long-Term Energy Planning: Organizations committed to achieving aggressive sustainability or net-zero goals.
• ESCO or EPC Models: Energy projects that require third-party financing or guaranteed savings verification.

Deliverables of a Level 3 Audit

• Investment-Grade Energy Report: A detailed blueprint for implementing energy efficiency measures.
• Phased Implementation Plan: Prioritized recommendations for short- and long-term energy strategies.
• Advanced Technical Analysis: In-depth modeling and engineering solutions for complex systems.
• Financial Justification: Robust cost-benefit analysis and lifecycle costing for every proposed measure.

Examples of Level 3 Recommendations

• High-Efficiency HVAC Systems: Replace or upgrade chillers, boilers, and air handlers with state-of-the-art equipment.
• On-Site Renewable Energy: Implement solar PV, geothermal, or wind systems for energy self-sufficiency.
• Energy Storage Solutions: Incorporate batteries or thermal storage to balance demand and optimize savings.
• Process Optimization: Redesign industrial processes to reduce waste and improve efficiency.
• Deep Retrofits: Comprehensive building upgrades for maximum energy and operational performance.

Your Gateway to Smarter Investments

An ASHRAE Level 3 energy audit empowers your organization with the technical expertise and financial insights needed to make informed investment decisions. With our support, you’ll uncover transformative energy-saving opportunities and achieve measurable results.