Compressed Air Programme

Following a pilot project with Fonterra and other analysis of the electricity savings opportunity, the Commission initiated a broad Compressed Air Systems (CAS) Efficiency Programme.

The CAS Efficiency Programme consists of separate components for larger and smaller compressed air users:

• For larger users the programme provides a robust auditing method for accredited auditors to identify efficiency opportunities; and
• For smaller businesses the programme provides simpler tools to for skilled maintenance service providers to provide a similar outcome.
• CAS information sheet pdf [43 KB]

Larger Systems 

To support robust auditing of larger compressed air systems (75 kW or more), the CAS Auditors Accreditation Scheme was developed in co-operation with parties representing compressed air systems suppliers, users and educators.  A ‘deed of participation’ exists between the Commission and the Compressed Air Association of Australasia (CAAA) to maintain the ongoing integrity and relevance of the Scheme to all parties with an interest in compressed air systems efficiency.

To be accredited under the CAS Auditor Accreditation Scheme, an auditor must satisfactory complete a specified Compressed Air Systems Education course. Information about the course, which is provided by the University of Waikato, should be directed to:

Michael Walmsley
Department of Engineering
Email: WALMSLEY@waikato.ac.nz

The CAS Auditor Accreditation Scheme is administered by the Energy Management Association of New Zealand (EMANZ).

For further details about the scheme, how to find or become a CAS Accredited Auditor, visit http://www.compressedairaudit.org.nz/.

Compressed Air Systems (CAS) Auditing Guidelines and Standards relevant to the Scheme are:

• Walk-thru Assessment Template pdf [242 KB]
• In-depth CAS Auditing Guideline pdf [311 KB]
• In-depth CAS Audit Report Standard pdf [244 KB]

Smaller Systems

The Air Efficiency Rating Scheme (AERS) is designed for use with businesses that have a single compressor, normally less than 75 kW in capacity.

AERS provides tools for service providers to take periodic snapshots of the efficiency of the compressed air system, and to calculate an efficiency rating to the system at each snapshot.

AERS does not provide detailed analysis and recommendations, but can highlight where CAS efficiency opportunities exist.