The role of energy audits: how electrical contractors can help clients save on power bills

Shocked by your power bill? Your clients are too. But you can be the energy – and money – saver they need. It’s no secret that energy bills have skyrocketed recently, and your clients are feeling the pinch. There are a few reasons for costs going up, and most of them aren’t in our control.

But… inefficient systems and old habits are usually also part of the problem, and that’s something definitely in our control.

And the good news is it offers the opportunity for you, dear contractor, to step in.

Adding energy audits to your service offering not only adds a valuable string to your bow, but also helps you build trust, credibility, and solve real-world problems for your clients.

What’s an energy audit, anyway? Breaking down the basics

Energy audits effectively identify energy waste and help improve efficiency. It could be an old refrigerator sucking up a whole load of power, or some inefficient products to blame, and an energy audit can help identify the problem. Estimates suggest that bills can be cut by 20-30% by implementing audit recommendations.

Identifying where and how energy is being used and wasted in a home or business, energy audits assess everything from appliances to lighting and systems, then recommend improvements.

There are different types of audits, from basic residential checks to in-depth commercial assessments. Here, Sydney-based Adam Bushell, Director of AB Electrical and Communications, talks to us about what that looks like:

“In the case of a household, an audit is carried out by a qualified professional who uses special equipment to detect problems like poor insulation of the attic, leaky ducts, or inefficient appliances that use too much power – each of which can add anywhere between $10-$15 to your monthly bill.

“Recently, we audited a commercial client who was spending $2500 each month  on electricity. During our inspection, we found that the HVAC system was old and had a defective sensor. By simply making one repair at a cost of $300, we were able to reduce their monthly power usage by 15 per cent, immediately saving them $375 per month.”

More than just wiring: the benefits of offering energy audits

Energy audits open the door to new service opportunities beyond traditional electrical work. Here’s how:

• New revenue streams: From audit fees to the supply and installation of recommended new product upgrades, like smart switches, LED lighting, or solar enhancements, there’s real earning potential here.
• Client loyalty & trust: When you help clients lower their power bills, you’re solving real-world problems that will save them money in the long run. Services like these help build long-term loyalty and a deeper client relationship based on trust.
• Competitive edge: In a crowded market, offering tailored energy audits gives you an edge. You’re helping clients save money and improve efficiency, which helps position you as an expert in your field.
• Environmental impact: Naturally, energy audits tie into sustainability and most people want to know they’re doing their part for the environment, often allying with others who feel the same. If you’re a tradie who values energy efficiency, you’re not only making a good impression, but you’re also building rapport with your clients and opening yourself up to quality future referrals.
• Staying ahead: As energy regulations evolve and more clients seek greener solutions, electricians offering audits are ahead of the curve, positioning themselves as trusted, knowledgeable advisors.

Getting down to brass tacks: what an energy audit involves

If you want to offer energy audits, the Energy Efficiency Council offers short courses that enable you to deliver energy audits that meet AS 3598:2014. And, when you get into the swing of things, here’s how a standard energy audit typically plays out:

1. Initial assessment: Start by reviewing your client’s recent power bills to get a clear picture of their average usage and any unusual spikes. Ask a few simple questions such as:

• How many people live or work here?
• What are their typical daily routines?
• When are the biggest energy draws (e.g. heating in the morning, cooling in the afternoon)
• What major appliances or systems do they rely on?

2. On-site inspection: look for signs of overuse or inefficiency by checking lighting systems, appliances, switchboards, heating and cooling systems, insulation, and solar setups.

3. Identifying inefficiencies: This is where you start to connect the dots. Common culprits include:

• Old or inefficient appliances
• Incandescent or halogen lighting
• Poor insulation
• Phantom loads (devices drawing power even when off)

4. Recommending solutions: now it’s time to offer practical, cost-effective upgrades that deliver results. Depending on the site, your recommendations might include:

• LED lighting upgrades.
• Smart home automation for energy control.
• Timers and sensors.
• Surge protection.
• Solar system integration/optimisation.

From audit to action: products and services to help your clients save

Once the audit’s complete, you’ll need the right products to turn recommendations into results. Through Gemcell members, you’ve got access to quality energy-saving solutions, all from trusted suppliers.