Final answer:
Energy advisors carry out different scopes of audits. Level 2 audits involve breakdowns of consumption and financial analysis. Level 3 audits incorporate in-depth technical assessments, and Level 4 or Investment Grade Audits demand detailed energy simulations for investment decisions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Energy advisors are responsible for conducting thorough analyses on the energy consumption patterns of buildings and providing recommendations on how to improve energy efficiency. The obligations of an energy advisor regarding Level 2, Level 3, and Level 4 audits vary in depth and detail.
Level 2 Audits
A Level 2 audit is more detailed than a Level 1 audit and includes a breakdown of energy consumption, an evaluation of building systems, and a financial analysis of recommended energy-efficiency measures. The energy advisor must identify low-cost/no-cost measures and provide a more detailed analysis of potential capital-intensive modifications.
Level 3 Audits
Level 3 audits require a more rigorous data collection and engineering analysis. Energy advisors performing Level 3 audits provide detailed energy use breakdown, with a focus on sophisticated data analysis and in-depth technical assessments of mechanical, electrical, and structural systems. Long-term recommendations are typically included, with careful attention to potential cost savings and implementation strategies.
Level 4 Audits
Level 4 audits, often referred to as "Investment Grade Audits," demand the highest level of detail and accuracy. An energy advisor must perform comprehensive energy simulations and advanced financial viability assessments. This helps establish a full understanding of all energy measures, projecting costs and savings with a high degree of confidence to guide investment decisions.