Energy audit - what is it?

A building energy audit is the first step toward reducing energy intensity. It's technical and economic expertisewhich concerns energy use in the facility under study. The result of the audit is not only a detailed report describing the current energy consumption, but also a set of recommendations to help improve the energy efficiency of the building. Such an audit can range from simple modifications to larger investments in building upgrades.

What requirements should the audit meet?

For an energy audit to be effective and deliver the expected results, it must meet certain requirements. This is crucial to ensure the reliability of the results and the effectiveness of the changes made. The energy audit of a building should be performed in accordance with the Regulation of the Minister of Infrastructure of 17 March 2009 on the detailed scope and form of an energy audit and a part of a renovation audit, templates of audit cards, as well as an algorithm for assessing the profitability of a thermomodernisation project.

What is the purpose of preparing an audit?

The main objective of energy audits is to identify areas where changes and improvements can be made. Their aim is to achieve savings and improve the efficiency of the installations in the building under study. Following the survey, the auditors identify solutions to optimise costs in a report. A detailed audit identifies areas where energy may be wasted, such as inadequate insulation, outdated equipment or inefficient heating systems. The proposed changes can help to make the building more comfortable to use.

What funding can be obtained for an energy audit under the Clean Air Programme?

Regardless of the level of support, funding of up to 100% of the net cost of the audit, but no more than £1,200, can be obtained, provided:

• the preparation of an energy audit summary document on the Clean Air Programme template, and
• to carry out the scope of work for the selected variant, resulting from the energy audit, within the framework of the submitted application for co-financing, no later than the date of completion of the proposed project.

In order to be considered a comprehensive thermo-modernisation project, the project must meet at least one of the following indicators, determined on the basis of the energy audit carried out:

• Reduction in usable energy demand to 80 kWh/(m2*year).
• Reduction in utility energy demand by at least 40%.

Importantly, if the entire scope indicated in the audit is not realised, the cost of the audit will not be eligible for funding.

An energy audit is only required if a comprehensive thermomodernisation is carried out. For other thermomodernisation projects, an audit is not necessary to obtain financing.

Who can perform an audit in the Clean Air Programme?

It is important that the energy audits carried out under the Clean Air Programme are carried out by persons with appropriate knowledge and professional experience. Although the legislator does not impose specific restrictions on the persons performing the audits, it is recommended to use auditors listed on publicly available lists of organisations such as the Association of Energy Auditors (ZAE), the Association of Energy Certifiers and Auditors (SCiAE), the National Energy Conservation Agency (KAPE), the National Energy Conservation Agency (NAPE), or the platform of energy efficiency experts available at: https://www.peee.gov.pl/pl.

Why choose comprehensive thermal modernisation?

Making use of comprehensive thermo-modernisation increases the chances of obtaining higher subsidy amounts and, in addition, brings many benefits. Modernising a building, which includes improving the thermal insulation, replacing the heat source and introducing modern, environmentally friendly solutions, saves money and benefits the environment.

Energy-efficient buildings have significantly lower energy consumption, which directly translates into lower heating and electricity costs. In addition, by minimising atmospheric emissions, such buildings contribute to environmental protection. If the majority of the inhabitants of single-family houses in a given locality decided to undertake comprehensive thermo-modernisation, air quality in the region could be significantly improved. The Clean Air Programme was created not only to provide financial support, but also to effectively counteract the smog problem.