It is logical that without an established cost for the compressed air it is considered an almost free and unlimited resource. As such, many sound investments that may go towards saving air are rejected.

There is no single determined cost for compressed air that applies to all companies. Energy represents approximately 50 % of the compressed air cost. Other costs include capital, service, maintenance, ventilation, monitoring, spare parts, insurance, and management costs.

How the compressors are utilized and controlled can also greatly affect the compressed air economy. If your company has not established the cost of compressed air there are commonly accepted figures in industry based on those companies that have.

In mainland Europe € 0.02-0.03 per m3 is commonly accepted, in the US
$ 0.02, the UK £ 0.015. In an inefficient, poorly controlled system the compressed air could be considerably more expensive..