Energy Efficiency and Renewable Resource Feasibility Studies
A partial grant (up to 50%) will be available for those interested in having a tailored study carried out for their business (this can include energy efficiency audit, and/or a renewable energy / low carbon technology feasibility study and/or carbon footprint calculations).
Priority will be given to SMEs, but public organisations and individuals will also be considered.
Objectives
The objectives of the energy audit and survey are:
- to identify opportunities for reducing energy costs
- to estimate potential savings, and where applicable, implementation costs
- to provide an audit for the site on the basis of the previous 12 months invoiced accounts
- to identify opportunities for reducing the site’s carbon emissions by the substitution or complementation of existing systems with renewable energy technology .
Methods
The methods of achieving these objectives are:
- by observations and where applicable analysis of how efficiently energy consuming equipment is being used
- by considering possible improvements to energy management control
- by considering the availability and applicability of renewable (active and passive) energy
Reporting
A report shall be written outlining the findings and recommendations arising from the survey. The report shall be preceded by a summary outlining the potential energy/carbon savings at the site. These will be of the good housekeeping and low-cost type but will also indicate where further opportunities may exist. The body of the report shall contain the following sections:
Site information - The site, its function and services shall be described
Energy audit - Based on data obtained from previous invoices, a table showing annual fuel consumptions and costs shall be compiled for the site. Performance indicators shall be determined and commented upon.
Energy use - Where applicable the following systems will be assessed and recommendations for improvement made:
- boiler plant
- space heating and domestic hot water
- electrical power and lighting
- air conditioning
- building fabric
- process
Energy management - Existing energy management procedures shall be assessed and outline recommendations shall be made on any improvement which can be made to the existing system.
Renewable energy potential - Where applicable the site will be assessed for the availability and extent of renewable energy. Its compatibility with existing site energy demand will be assessed and outline recommendations made on the feasibility of its incorporation/substitution within the buildings services.
Site access
The survey will require access to all areas of the site for (up to) approximately 5 working days. These will not necessarily be consecutive but will at all times pre-arranged with the client.
Unless required by the client for health and safety, confidentiality or other reasons, constant accompaniment is not necessary the purposes of the survey.
Depending on working practices it may be necessary to visit the site outside of working hours on one occasion.
Site information
The client is to supply as much information as possible on building usage, occupancy and working practices related to energy use. The availability of site plans, building and building services drawings would facilitate the survey process.
As detailed earlier the previous 12 months energy invoices are to be supplied by the client.
The client will be asked to complete a short pre-survey questionnaire to assess the company position on the renewable energy/carbon agenda.
Download the above information in the Energy Survey Brief here.
For further details and to apply please contact:
Neil Packer
Senior lecturer/Low Carbon Consultant
FCET
Staffordshire University
Beaconside, Stafford
ST18 0AD
Tel 01785 353243
email: n.packer@staffs.ac.uk
Jon Fairburn
Senior lecturer
IESR
Staffordshire University
College Road, Stoke on Trent
ST4 2DE
Tel 01782 294038
email:
jon.fairburn@staffs.ac.uk