An energy audit in accordance with DIN EN 16247-1 is a powerful tool for systematically analyzing energy consumption and deriving concrete savings potential on a sound, data-driven basis. In industrial operations with complex processes in particular, a structured, data-based approach provides full transparency into electricity and gas consumption, making energy-intensive areas identifiable.
A recently completed reference project at a production facility in the Netherlands confirms this approach: only through a holistic and traceable analysis does it becomes possible to gain clarity on the key energy consumers, identify technically and economically viable measures, and quantify their impact on CO₂ emissions and costs.
Energy Audit as the Foundation for Transparent Decision-Making
At the outset of the energy audit, we capture and validate all relevant energy consumption data. The analysis covers both the overall energy intake and a detailed breakdown by processes, systems, and individual consumers. We additionally evaluate specific energy performance indicators, such as energy consumption per product unit, to establish reliable benchmarks and objectively identify optimization potential. The result is a robust data foundation that provides decision-makers with clear, actionable guidance.
A central component of the audit is the identification of so-called Significant Energy Users (SEUs). These energy-intensive areas have the greatest impact on overall consumption and simultaneously offer the highest potential for efficiency improvements.
Typical areas of analysis include:
- Breakdown of total energy consumption by electricity and gas
- Determination of specific energy performance indicators per process or product
- Analysis of relevant energy influencing factors such as load profiles, temperatures, and operating hours
This level of transparency creates the prerequisite for targeted measures rather than blanket, across-the-board savings approaches.
Identifying and Evaluating Effective Energy-Saving Measures
Based on the analysis, specific measures to reduce energy consumption are developed. These encompass both technical approaches - such as heat recovery systems - and organizational optimizations or process adjustments. Each measure is assessed in terms of technical feasibility, savings potential, and economic viability. This structured approach results in a robust portfolio of measures that accounts for both short- and long-term opportunities.
To enable structured implementation, the individual measures are consolidated into prioritized action packages. Prioritization is based on savings magnitude, economic viability, and practical feasibility.
Typical outcomes of this phase include:
- Identified energy savings potentials
- Clearly prioritized action packages with transparent economic assessment
- A comparison of the CO₂ footprint in the current (as-is) and target (to-be) state
This creates a reliable foundation for investment decisions and the pursuit of strategic energy and climate targets.
Grant-Compliant Documentation in Accordance with BAFA Requirements
The complete energy audit documentation is prepared in full compliance with BAFA (Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control) funding requirements. All content is structured so that companies can strategically access public funding programs and secure their investments in energy efficiency on a sound financial basis.
The documentation includes, among other items:
- Technical descriptions of all identified measures
- Traceable calculations of energy, cost, and CO₂ savings
- A structured and audit-ready overall presentation
Transparency Meets Action: Savings Potential Made Visible
The energy audit delivers a comprehensive picture of energy use at the facility. Drawing on the reference project in the Netherlands, this includes:
- Transparent breakdown of electricity and gas consumption
- Meaningful energy performance indicators (e.g., kWh per product unit)
- Demonstrated savings potential of over 30%
- Economically assessed and prioritized action packages
- A complete CO₂ balance for both the current and future state
These results enable targeted implementation backed by economic and strategic alignment.
Conclusion
An energy audit in accordance with DIN EN 16247-1 is far more than a formal compliance exercise. It is a strategic lever for the lasting reduction of energy consumption, costs, and CO₂ emissions. The combination of structured data collection, rigorous analysis, and economic assessment creates a solid decision-making foundation - regardless of whether the facility is located in Germany or at an international site.
The reference project in the Netherlands clearly demonstrates the critical importance of a methodologically sound and holistic approach for fully unlocking efficiency potential and successfully achieving long-term savings.