Energy audits standard open for public comment

The AS/NZS 3598:2000 Energy audits standard is open for public comment. Energy audits and surveys are investigations of energy use for a defined audit object, such as a manufacturing site.

An energy audit is an important step for an organisation, whatever its size or type, wanting to improve its energy performance, reduce energy consumption and obtain related financial and environmental benefits. The current objective of AS/NZS 3598 Energy audits is to:

• provide a guide for organisations when commissioning energy audits;
• assist organisations decide what type of audit is appropriate for their needs;
• provide auditors with a uniform basis comparing energy audit proposals;
• establish best practice for energy auditors; and
• complement existing energy and other management and quality systems.

The purpose of the revision is to examine improvements relating to the overall purpose of the standard in terms of the desired objectives, the scope of the standard and the nature of the target audience. The revision also seeks to consider improvements required to address specific aspects of energy auditing processes.