An independent energy audit in accordance with DIN EN 16247 is an important step for all companies that want to increase their energy efficiency and reduce their energy costs. By carrying out energy audits in accordance with this standard, companies can analyze their energy consumption, identify potential savings and improve energy-related processes. The audits were first introduced in 2015 as part of the EDL-G (Energy Services and Other Energy Efficiency Measures Act), initially for non-SMEs. mandatorywhich they have had to repeat every four years since then if they do not yet have energy management systems in accordance with DIN EN 50001 or have introduced environmental management systems in accordance with EMAS. The respective results are then sent to the Federal Office of Economics and Export Control (BAFA) by the non-SMEs in an online declaration.
To which companies does the energy audit obligation according to DIN EN 16247 apply?
In general, according to the definition of the EU and the EDL-G, all companies with more than 250 employees, an annual turnover of more than €50 million and a balance sheet total of more than €43 million are affected by the energy audit obligation in accordance with DIN EN 16247. The legislator may include the values of subcontractors, partner companies or suppliers. In addition, since the EnSimiMav came into force on October 1, 2022, it also applies to companies with an annual energy consumption of over 10 GWh. However, all companies with certification in accordance with ISO 50001 or EMAS and companies that consume less than 500,000 kWh per year. In each case, the total energy consumption (electricity, heating or other fuels) is decisive, which must be proven to BAFA every year. Violations of the energy audit obligation can result in fines of up to €50,000.
How can SMEs benefit from energy audits?
Small and medium-sized companies that are not currently required to undergo an audit can commission a voluntary energy audit in accordance with DIN EN 16247 and benefit twice over. This enables them to apply for energy tax relief in accordance with § 55 EnergieStG and § 10 StromStG and to reduce their energy consumption and energy costs. The energy audits are also subsidized and serve as an excellent introduction to an operational energy management/efficiency management system for companies that are just on the threshold of mandatory audits.
How does an energy audit according to DIN EN 16247 work?
First of all, an internal or external energy officer of the company must commission an energy auditor. For this purpose, BAFA has provided a list of independent and certified energy auditors from which a selection can be made. Once the scope of the audit has been determined during the initial contact, the practical arrangements are agreed in the kick-off meeting and all relevant data is recorded. The auditor enters the measured values from an agreed sampling procedure in a newly drawn up measurement plan and examines all test objects in a field visit to the company before the actual analysis begins. The currently measured values and the previously defined criteria for the economic efficiency of a proposed measure always serve as the data basis for the optimization options. The company placing the order then receives a report with specific recommendations and plans for implementing the improvement options, including an overview of the relevant funding opportunities and a profitability calculation. In this report, all existing energy sources are recorded and evaluated, the energy sources are weighted and the efficiency potentials are presented and prioritized in detail.
What happens after an energy audit?
If the proposed efficiency measures in accordance with DIN EN 17463 (VALERI) have a positive net present value, companies subject to audits are obliged to implement them or make the various investments. Companies that undergo a voluntary energy audit in accordance with DIN EN 16247 should use the results and tackle the implementation of the energy efficiency measures, as they are generally extremely cost-effective. In addition to the tax relief, energy costs can be reduced, competitiveness can be increased and sustainable energy management can be introduced to secure the future of the company.
Conclusion
Energy audits in accordance with DIN EN 16247 are becoming increasingly important: they are not only an essential tool for increasing operational energy efficiency, but are also increasingly reflected as a standard in German and European legislation. The standard serves to ensure transparency and uniformity, and the advantages and benefits for all companies are obvious:
- Identification of potential savings: A thorough analysis of energy consumption and energy flows can identify weak points and inefficient processes. The audit can show where energy losses occur and how these can be minimized.
- Cost savings: By identifying potential savings, companies and organizations can significantly reduce their energy costs. The audit helps to identify more efficient technologies, processes and behavioral changes that can lead to cost savings.
- Environmental benefits: An energy audit aims to optimize energy consumption and thus reduce the ecological footprint. By implementing the recommended measures, greenhouse gas emissions can be reduced and the contribution to climate change minimized.
- Improving image and competitiveness: Companies that are committed to energy efficiency and improve their energy balance can strengthen their image as an environmentally conscious organization. This can lead to a competitive advantage, as many customers and business partners are now paying more attention to sustainability.