I work as an internal energy manager for a large corporation, but I'm also CUBA certified. My boss wants me to conduct formal audits of our own utility bills to document potential savings for the board. Is this an ethical conflict of interest? I'd essentially be auditing my own energy procurement decisions. SMUD and PG&E bills for 47 facilities across California. The potential savings could justify my salary, but I'm worried about the appearance of impropriety.
Is it ethical to audit your own company's bills?
Jennifer, I think this is a gray area. You're not auditing for an outside client, so the independence requirements might be different. But you should definitely disclose your role in the energy procurement process in your audit report. Maybe structure it as an internal review rather than a formal CUBA audit? That way you can provide the analysis your boss wants without compromising professional standards.
I'd be careful here. Even internal audits should maintain some objectivity. Could you bring in an outside auditor to review your work, or have another department oversee the process? In Georgia, I've seen internal auditors get into trouble when their findings were questioned later. Better to have too much oversight than too little when your own job performance is involved.