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Environment Energy

Top 10 Best Energy Audit Software of 2026

Explore top energy audit software tools to streamline assessments, cut costs. Find the best fit—explore now!

Min-ji Park

Min-ji Park

Feb 11, 2026

10 tools comparedExpert reviewed
Independent evaluation · Unbiased commentary · Updated regularly
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Energy audit software is a cornerstone of modern building optimization, enabling professionals to assess efficiency, identify cost-saving opportunities, and align with sustainability targets. With a varied portfolio—from residential-focused tools to advanced commercial and industrial platforms—selecting the right solution is key to driving accurate, actionable results.

Quick Overview

  1. 1#1: RetScreen - Provides comprehensive clean energy project feasibility analysis and energy auditing tools for buildings worldwide.
  2. 2#2: EnergyCAP - Delivers utility bill management, benchmarking, and detailed energy auditing for commercial facilities.
  3. 3#3: DesignBuilder - Enables intuitive 3D modeling and dynamic energy simulations for accurate building energy audits.
  4. 4#4: Wrightsoft Right-Suite - Integrates HVAC sizing, duct design, and Manual J energy calculations for precise residential and light commercial audits.
  5. 5#5: IESVE - Offers advanced whole-building performance simulation and dynamic energy auditing capabilities.
  6. 6#6: eQUEST - Quickly performs building energy audits and generates compliance reports using DOE-2 simulation.
  7. 7#7: OpenStudio - Open-source application for developing EnergyPlus models and conducting energy audits.
  8. 8#8: EnergyPlus - Provides detailed whole-building energy simulation for in-depth energy audits and research.
  9. 9#9: REM/Rate - Conducts HERS-rated residential energy audits with detailed load calculations and certifications.
  10. 10#10: Energy Audit Pro - Mobile app for on-site home energy audits with checklists, photo logging, and report generation.

Tools were chosen based on features like simulation precision, user-friendliness, integration capabilities, and value, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of both residential and commercial users.

Comparison Table

Energy audit software simplifies efficiency assessments, and this comparison table breaks down top tools like RetScreen, EnergyCAP, DesignBuilder, Wrightsoft Right-Suite, IESVE, and more. It highlights key features, usability, and industry focus to help readers identify the best fit for their specific needs.

1RetScreen logo9.7/10

Provides comprehensive clean energy project feasibility analysis and energy auditing tools for buildings worldwide.

Features
9.9/10
Ease
8.4/10
Value
9.8/10
2EnergyCAP logo9.1/10

Delivers utility bill management, benchmarking, and detailed energy auditing for commercial facilities.

Features
9.4/10
Ease
8.6/10
Value
8.8/10

Enables intuitive 3D modeling and dynamic energy simulations for accurate building energy audits.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
8.5/10
Value
7.8/10

Integrates HVAC sizing, duct design, and Manual J energy calculations for precise residential and light commercial audits.

Features
9.3/10
Ease
7.4/10
Value
8.1/10
5IESVE logo8.6/10

Offers advanced whole-building performance simulation and dynamic energy auditing capabilities.

Features
9.3/10
Ease
7.4/10
Value
8.1/10
6eQUEST logo7.6/10

Quickly performs building energy audits and generates compliance reports using DOE-2 simulation.

Features
8.7/10
Ease
5.4/10
Value
9.6/10
7OpenStudio logo8.1/10

Open-source application for developing EnergyPlus models and conducting energy audits.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
6.4/10
Value
9.7/10
8EnergyPlus logo8.2/10

Provides detailed whole-building energy simulation for in-depth energy audits and research.

Features
9.4/10
Ease
5.1/10
Value
9.8/10
9REM/Rate logo8.1/10

Conducts HERS-rated residential energy audits with detailed load calculations and certifications.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
6.4/10
Value
7.6/10

Mobile app for on-site home energy audits with checklists, photo logging, and report generation.

Features
8.1/10
Ease
6.8/10
Value
7.2/10
1
RetScreen logo

RetScreen

specialized

Provides comprehensive clean energy project feasibility analysis and energy auditing tools for buildings worldwide.

Overall Rating9.7/10
Features
9.9/10
Ease of Use
8.4/10
Value
9.8/10
Standout Feature

Integrated multi-disciplinary analysis combining energy modeling, financial viability, and life-cycle GHG emissions in a single platform

RETScreen is a comprehensive clean energy management software suite developed by Natural Resources Canada, specializing in energy performance analysis, feasibility studies, and project optimization for renewables, cogeneration, and efficiency measures. It enables detailed energy audits through baseline modeling, benchmarking against industry standards, and simulation of energy savings, GHG reductions, and financial viability. Trusted globally by governments, utilities, and consultants, it supports pre-feasibility to detailed audits with integrated databases for equipment and climate data.

Pros

  • Exceptionally comprehensive modeling for energy audits, renewables, and efficiency projects with built-in global databases
  • Government-backed reliability with accurate financial, energy, and GHG analysis tools
  • Free community edition available, offering high value for basic to advanced audits

Cons

  • Steep learning curve due to extensive features and Excel-like interface
  • Less intuitive for non-technical users or quick residential audits
  • Premium Expert version requires subscription for full automation and advanced reporting

Best For

Professional energy engineers, auditors, and consultants conducting feasibility studies and detailed audits for commercial, industrial, or renewable energy projects.

Pricing

Free Community edition; RETScreen Expert Pro subscription starts at ~$300/year per user for advanced features.

Visit RetScreenretscreen.net
2
EnergyCAP logo

EnergyCAP

enterprise

Delivers utility bill management, benchmarking, and detailed energy auditing for commercial facilities.

Overall Rating9.1/10
Features
9.4/10
Ease of Use
8.6/10
Value
8.8/10
Standout Feature

Automated bill auditing engine that verifies accuracy, detects anomalies, and flags discrepancies in real-time

EnergyCAP is a robust energy management platform specializing in utility bill tracking, auditing, and analytics for multi-site organizations. It automates data aggregation from diverse utility providers, performs bill validation and anomaly detection, and delivers customizable reports to support energy audits and cost optimization. With tools for benchmarking, forecasting, and sustainability tracking, it helps users identify inefficiencies and verify savings from conservation measures.

Pros

  • Comprehensive automation for bill collection and validation across thousands of meters/accounts
  • Powerful analytics including benchmarking, regression analysis, and custom dashboards
  • Scalable for enterprise portfolios with strong integration capabilities

Cons

  • High cost structure better suited for large organizations than small users
  • Initial setup and data migration can be time-intensive
  • Interface feels dated compared to newer SaaS competitors

Best For

Enterprise energy managers and facility directors handling large portfolios of commercial buildings who need advanced bill auditing and portfolio-wide energy analytics.

Pricing

Custom enterprise pricing starting at $5,000+ annually based on account volume and features; contact sales for quotes.

Visit EnergyCAPenergycap.com
3
DesignBuilder logo

DesignBuilder

specialized

Enables intuitive 3D modeling and dynamic energy simulations for accurate building energy audits.

Overall Rating8.7/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
8.5/10
Value
7.8/10
Standout Feature

Seamless graphical front-end to EnergyPlus, allowing complex dynamic simulations without manual input file editing

DesignBuilder is a comprehensive energy modeling software that enables users to build detailed 3D models of buildings and perform dynamic simulations for energy consumption, thermal comfort, daylighting, and airflow analysis using the EnergyPlus engine. It supports energy audits by providing accurate predictions of building performance, retrofit optimization, and compliance with standards like LEED, BREEAM, and Part L. The software streamlines the process from modeling to reporting, making it ideal for assessing energy efficiency in existing and new buildings.

Pros

  • Intuitive 3D modeling interface speeds up model creation compared to text-based tools
  • Powerful simulations including CFD, glare, and detailed HVAC sizing for thorough audits
  • Robust reporting tools with customizable outputs for compliance and client presentations

Cons

  • High licensing costs can be prohibitive for small firms or individual auditors
  • Windows-only compatibility limits accessibility for Mac or Linux users
  • Resource-intensive for very large or complex models, requiring powerful hardware

Best For

Energy consultants and building performance engineers conducting detailed simulations and audits for commercial and residential projects.

Pricing

Perpetual licenses start at ~£1,200 for basic energy modeling, up to £5,000+ for full suite with annual maintenance ~20%; volume and educational discounts available.

Visit DesignBuilderdesignbuilder.co.uk
4
Wrightsoft Right-Suite logo

Wrightsoft Right-Suite

specialized

Integrates HVAC sizing, duct design, and Manual J energy calculations for precise residential and light commercial audits.

Overall Rating8.7/10
Features
9.3/10
Ease of Use
7.4/10
Value
8.1/10
Standout Feature

Fully integrated 3D duct design with automatic ACCA Manual D airflow calculations and real-time energy impact analysis

Wrightsoft Right-Suite is a comprehensive HVAC design and analysis software suite tailored for residential energy audits and system sizing. It provides ACCA-compliant Manual J load calculations, Manual S equipment selection, Manual D duct design, and detailed energy modeling to assess building performance and efficiency. The platform integrates 2D/3D drawing tools with automated calculations, enabling auditors to generate accurate reports and proposals for energy-saving HVAC upgrades.

Pros

  • Exceptionally accurate and standards-compliant energy modeling (ACCA Manual J/S/D, ASHRAE)
  • Seamless integration of drawing, calculation, and reporting tools in one suite
  • Extensive equipment libraries and customizable templates for quick audits

Cons

  • Steep learning curve due to complex interface and multiple modules
  • High pricing limits accessibility for small firms or solo auditors
  • Primarily HVAC-focused, with less emphasis on non-HVAC energy audit elements like envelopes or renewables

Best For

HVAC contractors and residential energy auditors needing precise load calculations and integrated design tools for efficiency proposals.

Pricing

Annual subscriptions start at around $2,500 per user for Right-Suite Universal, with multi-user discounts and add-on modules available.

5
IESVE logo

IESVE

enterprise

Offers advanced whole-building performance simulation and dynamic energy auditing capabilities.

Overall Rating8.6/10
Features
9.3/10
Ease of Use
7.4/10
Value
8.1/10
Standout Feature

Integrated dynamic simulation across energy, daylight, and CFD domains for unparalleled whole-building retrofit analysis

IESVE (Integrated Environmental Solutions Virtual Environment) is a powerful building performance simulation platform designed for detailed energy modeling, analysis, and optimization of buildings. It excels in energy audits by enabling whole-building simulations, retrofit scenario testing, and compliance checks against standards like ASHRAE 90.1, LEED, and BREEAM. The suite integrates modules for thermal dynamics, daylighting, airflow (CFD), and renewables, providing comprehensive insights into energy consumption and efficiency improvements.

Pros

  • Exceptionally accurate dynamic thermal simulations with hourly/sub-hourly resolution
  • Comprehensive module integration for holistic building performance analysis
  • Robust compliance tools for global energy standards and certifications

Cons

  • Steep learning curve due to complex interface and advanced features
  • High resource demands requiring powerful hardware
  • Premium pricing limits accessibility for small firms or solo auditors

Best For

Engineering firms and energy consultants handling large-scale commercial or retrofit projects needing precise, multi-domain simulations.

Pricing

Quote-based; annual licenses start at ~$5,000-$10,000 for core energy modules, scaling to $20,000+ for full suite with multi-user support.

Visit IESVEiesve.com
6
eQUEST logo

eQUEST

specialized

Quickly performs building energy audits and generates compliance reports using DOE-2 simulation.

Overall Rating7.6/10
Features
8.7/10
Ease of Use
5.4/10
Value
9.6/10
Standout Feature

Integrated CHEETAH wizard for streamlined California Title 24 and IECC code compliance modeling

eQUEST is a free, open-source building energy simulation software based on the DOE-2.2 engine, enabling detailed whole-building modeling for energy audits, code compliance, and performance analysis. It supports hourly simulations of energy use, costs, peak demands, and comfort metrics across various building types, systems, and climates. Widely used for Title 24 compliance, LEED certification, and retrofit evaluations, it provides zone-level granularity for identifying energy-saving opportunities.

Pros

  • Exceptionally accurate DOE-2 simulation engine validated against real-world data
  • Comprehensive support for energy code compliance and detailed audit reporting
  • Completely free with no licensing costs

Cons

  • Outdated, clunky interface with steep learning curve
  • Limited modern visualization and automation tools
  • Primarily Windows-only with no native mobile or cloud support

Best For

Experienced energy engineers and auditors needing precise, cost-free simulations for compliance and detailed building analysis.

Pricing

Free to download and use indefinitely; no subscription or licensing fees.

Visit eQUESTdoe2.com
7
OpenStudio logo

OpenStudio

specialized

Open-source application for developing EnergyPlus models and conducting energy audits.

Overall Rating8.1/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
6.4/10
Value
9.7/10
Standout Feature

OpenStudio Measures library for automating retrofit analysis and optimization

OpenStudio is an open-source whole-building energy modeling platform developed by NREL, enabling users to create detailed 3D building models and run energy simulations using the EnergyPlus engine. It supports energy audits by modeling as-built conditions, testing retrofit scenarios, and generating performance metrics for efficiency improvements. The software integrates geometry sketching, measures for automation, and reporting tools tailored for compliance and optimization workflows.

Pros

  • Powerful EnergyPlus integration for precise simulations
  • Free and open-source with extensive library of measures
  • Supports standards like ASHRAE 90.1 for audit compliance

Cons

  • Steep learning curve requiring technical expertise
  • Time-intensive model building process
  • Limited intuitive interfaces for non-experts

Best For

Experienced energy engineers and auditors performing detailed simulation-based audits on complex buildings.

Pricing

Free (open-source, no licensing costs)

Visit OpenStudioopenstudio.net
8
EnergyPlus logo

EnergyPlus

specialized

Provides detailed whole-building energy simulation for in-depth energy audits and research.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
9.4/10
Ease of Use
5.1/10
Value
9.8/10
Standout Feature

Integrated heat balance and systems simulation for precise, dynamic whole-building energy modeling

EnergyPlus is a state-of-the-art, open-source whole-building energy simulation program developed by the U.S. Department of Energy for detailed modeling of building energy performance. It simulates heating, cooling, lighting, ventilation, and envelope interactions with high fidelity, making it suitable for energy audits requiring precise baseline and retrofit analysis. Users create input files to define geometry, schedules, and systems, with outputs for energy use, comfort, and costs. While powerful, it demands technical expertise for effective use in audit workflows.

Pros

  • Exceptionally accurate and detailed simulations for complex buildings
  • Free and open-source with extensive customization options
  • Robust support for HVAC, renewables, and advanced controls

Cons

  • Steep learning curve with text-based IDF input files
  • No native intuitive GUI, relying on third-party tools like OpenStudio
  • Long setup and simulation times unsuitable for quick audits

Best For

Experienced energy engineers and auditors tackling detailed simulations of large or complex commercial buildings.

Pricing

Completely free (open-source software)

Visit EnergyPlusenergyplus.net
9
REM/Rate logo

REM/Rate

specialized

Conducts HERS-rated residential energy audits with detailed load calculations and certifications.

Overall Rating8.1/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
6.4/10
Value
7.6/10
Standout Feature

Gold-standard HERS rating engine with validated algorithms for whole-building energy simulations

REM/Rate from REM/Design is a veteran residential energy modeling software primarily used for HERS ratings, home energy audits, and compliance with building codes like IECC and ENERGY STAR. It enables detailed simulations of a home's energy performance by inputting envelope, HVAC, lighting, and appliance data to calculate usage and recommend improvements. The tool produces professional reports for certifications, making it a staple for accredited energy raters.

Pros

  • Industry-standard accuracy for HERS ratings and RESNET-compliant modeling
  • Comprehensive component libraries and detailed simulation capabilities
  • Robust reporting for audits, certifications, and code compliance

Cons

  • Outdated, Windows-only interface with a steep learning curve
  • Limited integration with modern cloud or mobile tools
  • High cost relative to more intuitive alternatives

Best For

Certified HERS raters and professional energy auditors focused on precise residential compliance modeling.

Pricing

Annual license starts at ~$1,500 per user, with volume discounts and additional fees for training/support.

Visit REM/Rateremsoft.com
10
Energy Audit Pro logo

Energy Audit Pro

specialized

Mobile app for on-site home energy audits with checklists, photo logging, and report generation.

Overall Rating7.4/10
Features
8.1/10
Ease of Use
6.8/10
Value
7.2/10
Standout Feature

Direct automated data import from digital gauges like the DG-2000 for real-time blower door and duct leakage testing

Energy Audit Pro is a Windows-based software tailored for professional energy auditors, enabling detailed data collection from field tests like blower door, duct leakage, and combustion safety analysis. It performs precise energy calculations, models building performance, and generates customizable PDF reports for residential audits. The tool integrates seamlessly with The Energy Conservatory's diagnostic hardware for accurate measurements.

Pros

  • Robust integration with blower door and duct testing equipment
  • Comprehensive audit calculations and professional report generation
  • Supports detailed residential energy modeling and diagnostics

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for beginners
  • Limited to Windows desktop with no native mobile app
  • Higher pricing for additional modules and multi-user licenses

Best For

Certified residential energy auditors using The Energy Conservatory hardware for in-depth field diagnostics.

Pricing

Annual subscription starts at $495 for a single-user basic license; advanced modules and multi-user plans add $200–$1,000+ per year.

Visit Energy Audit Proenergyauditpro.com

Conclusion

The top 10 energy audit tools showcase a diverse range of capabilities, with RetScreen leading as the most comprehensive choice for global clean energy project feasibility and building audits. EnergyCAP stands out for commercial utility management and benchmarking, while DesignBuilder excels with intuitive 3D modeling and dynamic simulations—each offering unique strengths to cater to different user needs.

RetScreen logo
Our Top Pick
RetScreen

For those aiming to enhance their energy auditing efforts, RetScreen emerges as the top pick. Explore its robust features to streamline your projects and unlock greater efficiency in managing energy performance.