What is the primary purpose of energy audits?

The primary purpose of energy audits is to enhance energy efficiency and reduce waste. Energy audits involve a systematic evaluation of a building's energy use, identifying areas where energy is being consumed unnecessarily and where improvements can be made. By analyzing energy consumption patterns, auditors can recommend strategies such as upgrading insulation, optimizing heating and cooling systems, and implementing energy-saving technologies. The goal is to minimize energy waste, reduce utility costs, and decrease the overall environmental impact of the building.

While updating building codes, assessing employee productivity, and planning future construction projects are important activities, they do not directly focus on the efficiency of energy consumption within existing structures. Energy audits specifically target ways to conserve energy and promote sustainability, making option B the best description of their primary purpose.