Identifying Energy Auditing ‘Cowboys’

In this article we discuss how to avoid energy auditing cowboys and access proper, qualified advice.

Energy audits play a crucial role in helping businesses identify opportunities to improve energy efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance sustainability. However, the effectiveness of an energy audit largely depends on the expertise, qualifications and motives of the auditor conducting the assessment. In recent years, the rise of uncertified or unlicensed energy consultants – often referred to as ‘cowboys’ – has created challenges for businesses seeking reliable and accurate energy audits. 

These so-called cowboys lack a proper understanding or care for the established energy audit standards in Australia, putting businesses at risk of receiving inaccurate or misleading information. There have been cases where a cowboy had installed energy saving equipment that did save energy, but the cost was so high, it never payed itself back.

Recognising the Signs of an Energy Auditing Cowboys

So how can you spot the signs of an energy auditing ‘cowboy’ and avoid the potential consequences of engaging their services? Here are few telltale signs.

Lack of appropriate certification or licensing

Certification from recognized organisations, such as the Energy Efficiency Council(EEC), or better still the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) demonstrates that an energy auditor has undergone rigorous training and adheres to the highest industry standards. Licensing requirements for energy auditors in Australia ensure that they possess the necessary skills and qualifications to conduct professional and accurate energy assessments to conduct professional and accurate energy assessments.

For example to become qualified as an Certified Energy Manager, a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering is such a requirement to start the course. A ‘cowboy’ may not have these certifications or licences, or any relevant degree which is a significant red flag.

Limited experience or expertise in the field

Experience is a crucial factor in determining the quality of an energy audit. A reputable energy auditor will have a strong portfolio of work, showcasing their expertise and ability to deliver tangible results. Cowboys, on the other hand, may have limited or no experience in conducting energy audits. Or only offer one solution, such as LED lighting. 

Verify the auditor’s experience by assessing their portfolio, case studies, and client testimonials. Reach out to references provided by the auditor to confirm their claims and gauge their level of expertise.

Overpromising and unrealistic guarantees

Reputable energy auditors understand the importance of setting realistic expectations for energy efficiency improvements and potential cost savings.

Cowboys, however, may overpromise results, offering unrealistic guarantees in an attempt to secure business. Be cautious of sales pitches and proposals that seem too good to be true, as they likely are.

Dont be taken in by the free audit by a supplier of say power factor correction units, this may not be an holistic audit but rather a power factor assessment, this is only a small part of an energy audit.

Inadequate reporting and documentation

Thorough and accurate reporting is crucial to the success of an energy audit, as it provides businesses with the information necessary to make informed decisions about energy efficiency upgrades.

Cowboys may provide insufficient or incomplete reports, lacking the necessary detail to help businesses identify and prioritise energy-saving opportunities. Recognise the signs of inadequate reporting, such as missing data, lack of analysis, or unclear recommendations.

The Consequences of Engaging an Energy Auditing ‘Cowboy’

Inaccurate audit results and recommendations

Cowboys’ lack of knowledge and expertise can lead to inaccurate audit results and misguided recommendations. These inaccuracies can have severe financial implications, as businesses may invest in energy efficiency measures that don’t deliver the expected results.

Furthermore, incorrect recommendations may negatively impact business operations, leading to inefficiencies and increased energy consumption and unrequited capital expenditure. .

Non-compliance with regulatory requirements

Engaging the services of a cowboy can result in non-compliance with regulatory requirements, which may lead to legal and financial repercussions.

Businesses are responsible for ensuring that their energy audits meet the necessary standards, and failure to do so may result in penalties or fines. Additionally, engaging a cowboy can damage your business’s reputation, as clients, partners, and stakeholders may question your commitment to sustainability and industry best practices.

How to Find a Reputable Energy Auditor

Research and verify certifications and licensing

Begin by utilising industry resources and directories, such as the Association of Energy Engineers or Energy Efficiency Council, to identify certified energy auditors in your area. 

Also research they are in your area, in Queensland there are only few Certified Energy Managers, but they are worth your time. Check local government resources to verify the licensing requirements for energy auditors and confirm that the auditors you are considering meet these criteria.

Seek recommendations from industry peers and associations

Leverage your professional network and industry associations to seek recommendations for reputable energy auditors. The experience of others in your industry can provide valuable insights into the quality and professionalism of potential auditors.

Utilize social media groups and online forums to ask for recommendations and gather feedback on specific auditors.

Request proposals and compare offerings

Request proposals from multiple energy auditors to evaluate the scope of services, pricing, and timelines. This comparison will enable you to identify the best fit for your business’s needs and budget.

Assess the quality of communication and professionalism demonstrated by each auditor throughout the proposal process, as this can be indicative of their overall approach to conducting an energy audit.

Review their portfolio, case studies, and client testimonials

Before engaging an energy auditor, review their portfolio, case studies, and client testimonials to assess the relevance and success of their past work.

This will give you an idea of their expertise in your specific industry and their ability to deliver tangible results. Confirm the authenticity of client testimonials by reaching out to the references provided, if possible.

Hiring a certified and experienced energy auditor is essential to ensure that your business receives accurate and reliable information about its energy usage and efficiency. By following the steps outlined in this blog, you can avoid energy auditing ‘cowboys’ and find a reputable professional who will help your business achieve long-term energy efficiency and cost savings.

We think you’ll find Energy Engineers meets all the criteria (and we’re definitely certified!). So if you’re considering an energy audit, or don’t yet know where to start, contact us today.