Which data duration is recommended to establish energy baselines?

• A. 24 months
• B. 12 months
• C. 60 months
• D. 1 month

Answer: (B)

A full year of energy data captures the seasonal variation in water demand and pump operation, which is essential for a credible baseline. Energy use for pumping changes with weather, irrigation needs, and system head, so including all seasons—winter, spring, summer, and fall—ensures the baseline reflects typical, year-round conditions. A one-month period would miss these seasonal swings and could bias savings estimates or mischaracterize normal operation. Extending far beyond a year can introduce changes in equipment, operations, or pricing that aren’t part of the baseline you’re trying to measure. For these reasons, twelve months is the appropriate duration to establish a reliable energy baseline.