So we have tax audit, why not an energy audit?

The first step to finding out how much energy your home uses and measure how you can be more efficient starts with getting an "energy audit."

Energy audits started 20 or so years ago, and such inspections were mostly done on commerical properties.  Nowadays, test can be done inexpensively for residential homes.  The audit tests rooms for leasks and air filtration to see how much energy is used or lost in a home.

You can start by checking your home by yourself.  Look for air leaks, checking both inside and outside.  Check faucets for leak that may need caulking.

The U.S. Department of Energy Web site has an instruction for "Do It Yourselfers."  Getting an inspection done professionally is recommended.  You can contact the California Building Performance Contractors Association for reference.  It's a non-profit organization that trains and certifies contractors through its Green Home Energy Update Program.  Audits begin in the price range of $300 - $1000.  You can also go to Energy Star and click on home improvement tag for more info on audits.