Got an opportunity to audit a state corrections facility but they're asking about security clearances and background checks. This would be my first prison account. The energy manager says they spend about $200K/month on electricity but the procurement process involves Department of Corrections approval. Anyone worked with prison facilities before?
Prison facility energy audit - security clearance needed?
Leon - yes, you'll definitely need background clearance. Usually takes 4-6 weeks minimum. The bigger issue is access restrictions - you can't just walk around measuring equipment like a normal audit. Everything has to be escorted and pre-approved. But the savings potential is huge because most prisons have ancient equipment and run 24/7.
Joanne's right about the clearance requirements. I did a county jail facility and had to get fingerprinted, pass drug screening, the whole nine yards. But it was worth it - found over $60K annually in billing errors and got them switched to a better rate schedule. Just budget extra time for the security process.