Monitoring Energy Savings After Installation
Monitoring energy savings after installation of energy-efficient systems is crucial for verifying improvements and ensuring continued performance. Here’s a guide on how to effectively track energy savings post-installation:
Importance of Monitoring Energy Savings
1. Verifying Performance
Why It Matters:
Confirming that the installed systems are delivering the expected energy savings ensures the energy-saving measures installed are worthwhile.
What You Should Do:
- Track Energy Bills: Compare energy bills before and after installation to measure cost savings.
- Regular Monitoring: Use monitoring tools to track real-time energy consumption.
2. Identifying Issues
Why It Matters:
Early detection of issues ensures systems continue to operate efficiently.
What You Should Do:
- Check System Performance: Regularly review the performance of heating, ventilation, and insulation systems.
- Schedule Maintenance: Conduct periodic maintenance to prevent and resolve issues promptly.
3. Maximising Efficiency
Why It Matters:
Continuous monitoring helps in optimising energy use, further reducing costs and carbon footprint.
What You Should Do:
- Optimise Usage: Adjust settings based on usage patterns to enhance efficiency.
- Upgrade When Necessary: Identify opportunities for further improvements or upgrades.
Methods for Monitoring Energy Savings
1. Smart Meters and Monitoring Devices
Overview:
Smart meters and energy monitoring devices provide real-time data on energy consumption.
Benefits:
- Accurate Measurement: Offers precise insights into energy usage patterns.
- User-Friendly: Easy to read and understand for effective monitoring.
What You Should Do:
- Install Smart Meters: Ensure a smart meter is installed to track real-time energy usage.
- Use Monitoring Apps: Utilise apps provided by energy suppliers to monitor consumption on the go.
2. Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)
Overview:
EPCs provide an overview of a property’s energy efficiency and potential improvements.
Benefits:
- Benchmarking: Offers a baseline to compare pre- and post-installation performance.
- Improvement Tracking: Highlights areas of improvement and tracks progress.
What You Should Do:
- Update EPC: Have an updated EPC issued after installation to reflect improvements.
- Compare Ratings: Compare current and previous EPC ratings to gauge improvements.
3. Regular Audits
Overview:
Conducting energy audits helps identify inefficiencies and areas for further improvement.
Benefits:
- Professional Insight: Provides expert analysis and recommendations.
- Comprehensive Evaluation: Assesses all aspects of energy use and efficiency.
What You Should Do:
- Schedule Audits: Regularly schedule professional energy audits.
- Implement Recommendations: Act on recommendations from audits to maintain and improve efficiency.
Monitoring energy savings after the installation of energy-efficient systems is essential for verifying performance, identifying issues, and maximising efficiency. By tracking energy bills, using smart meters, updating EPCs, and conducting regular audits, residents can ensure their energy efficiency measure deliver ongoing benefits. For further information and guidance, consult UK government resources on energy monitoring and efficiency.
