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What is Energy Consulting?

Margo Upson
By
Updated Feb 16, 2024
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Energy consulting is done by professionals who have studied and worked in the field of energy. They are experts who are capable of helping individuals and businesses reduce the cost of their energy needs. This includes reducing the amount of energy used, and switching to alternative energy sources.

The first way that energy consulting can help a company is by auditing previous energy bills. By reviewing these bills, consultants can look for any mischarged fees, and have them refunded to the company. This will also give consultants a good feel for how energy is used within the business. They can then help a company to find the best energy supplier for their needs, one that offers the lowest rates and the best service.

After reviewing the bills, an energy consultant can create a plan on how to reduce the energy used by the company. Energy consulting firms will look for areas in which the company can save money by cutting back consumption or by purchasing products that are more energy efficient. After observing where energy is being wasted, a plan will be drawn up to reduce energy bills. The consultant can then help the company to implement this program.

A third way in which energy consulting can help a company is through finding environmentally smarter options for their energy use. This could mean everything from buying energy efficient products to installing a windmill to provide all the power needed to run a large company. By switching to renewable resources for energy production, a company can both save money and reduce the pollution it creates. A company may be advised to replace older company cars with hybrid or electric cars, to invest in better building insulation to reduce heating and cooling needs, and to begin a company-wide recycling program.

Energy consultants work to educate people about ways to reduce their energy usage. Energy consulting firms may offer classes and seminars in their local area, which both educates community members about energy use and gives the consulting company a great advertising opportunity. Consultants can inform individuals and businesses about grants and loan programs available to help them make the switch to a more energy efficient lifestyle.

Following the plan put together by a consultant is essential to saving money, especially when companies are faced with high energy costs. Hiring an energy consulting firm can save a company hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars a year, making it an investment that will pay for itself several times over.

WiseGEEK is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Margo Upson
By Margo Upson
With a vast academic background that has ranged from psychology and culinary arts to criminal justice and education, Margo Upson brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role as a WiseGEEK writer. Her wide-ranging interests and skill at diving into new topics make her articles informative, engaging, and valuable to readers seeking to expand their knowledge.

Discussion Comments

By anon947240 — On Apr 24, 2014

What are the qualifications of an energy consultant?

By Georgesplane — On May 24, 2011

I have seen real-time energy auditing devices that allow the consumer to do what an energy efficiency consultant does. The devices work by monitoring and collecting energy use data, allowing the consumer to see where energy is being consumed the most, and the effect this has on the price the consumer pays for energy. The consumer can then reduce energy use during peak hours, or look to make efficiency improvements to inefficient equipment.

I have also heard that some of the utilities in California offer "black boxes" to consumers that allow them to program certain devices to operate at certain times. It allows people to run the dishwasher, washing machine, and refrigerator during off peak hours when electricity is cheapest. I would be curios to know if anyone has used these devices and how much they save on their energy bill.

By cougars — On May 21, 2011

@Igeenway- I do not think that there is one organization that accredits energy consultants. Energy consultants cover a broad spectrum of work. An energy provider may hire an energy consultant to manage risk, while a homeowner or homebuilder may hire an energy consultant to determine how they can improve efficiency and conserve energy. Each of these instances would require a consultant with different qualifications.

A consultant who works with building energy may want to seek certification by BPI, LEED or ASHRAE. Probably the most relevant of the three I just listed is the Building Energy Assessment Professional (BEAP) Certification by ASHRAE. BEAP has very stringent qualification standards, and proves competency in analyzing energy use in all types of buildings, including residential, commercial, and industrial structures.

By lgreenway — On Dec 21, 2008

Who accredits energy consultants?

Margo Upson

Margo Upson

With a vast academic background that has ranged from psychology and culinary arts to criminal justice and education,...
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