In today’s fast-paced business environment, reducing energy consumption is not just an environmentally responsible choice; it’s also a smart financial strategy. With energy costs continually rising, businesses seek innovative ways to reduce and enhance their sustainability efforts. This guide presents 10 actionable strategies to help your business reduce energy usage while saving money. From simple adjustments to your daily operations to implementing advanced technology, these tips will empower you to create a more efficient and cost-effective workplace. Let's explore how these energy-saving solutions can significantly impact your bottom line and contribute positively to the planet.
Difference between Energy Saving & Sustainability
Energy saving focuses on reducing energy consumption for cost savings and environmental benefits. At the same time, sustainability encompasses a broader approach that considers long-term ecological, social, and economic well-being, including energy saving as a key component.
Energy Saving
This means doing the same tasks with less energy, wasting less, and using less. For instance, turning off lights when you leave a room, selecting energy-efficient appliances, and reducing heating or cooling can save energy. Energy savings can come from both changing habits and using better technology.
Sustainability
Sustainability is more than saving energy; it examines how our actions affect the environment, society, and economy. It involves using resources wisely to meet our present needs without harming future generations. It encompasses energy consumption, water resources, waste management, and social aspects of fairness.
Tips for Reducing Energy Consumption in Your Business
To significantly lower your business's energy usage, adopt a comprehensive strategy that includes behavioural adjustments, equipment upgrades, and enhancements to your building. Emphasise energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems, and motivate employees to reduce waste using equipment correctly and employing innovative practices, such as maximising natural light.
1. Evaluating the HVAC System
Keep up with Maintenance
Your HVAC system is among the largest energy consumers in your business. By staying on top of cleaning and maintenance, you can typically reduce energy usage by 5% to 40% by:
- Performing regular maintenance and inspections
- Ensuring that air filters are clean, preferably every month
- Cleaning all heat-exchanging surfaces, including water and refrigerant coils, condensers, and evaporators.
- Replace any faulty insulation systems.
Leverage Fans
Opting for fans rather than air conditioners can support a healthy work environment by managing temperature, humidity, and air circulation.
Address Leaks
If you observe leaks in your HVAC system, take immediate action. Taking prompt action can prevent expensive structural problems like rot and mould while reducing energy costs.
Invest in a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats are essential for businesses. They use mobile apps, motion sensors, and usage tracking to manage temperature easily and accurately. Many models can be programmed to change temperature settings automatically based on the time and day.
Control the Temperature
Set your thermostat to about 25 °C in summer and 18 °C in winter. Increasing the temperature by just one degree in summer can cut cooling costs by 2-3%. Employ a smart thermostat to regulate temperatures during times you're away, such as weekends or after work in a room. Locking the thermostat can also stop unauthorized changes and help you keep control.
Increase the Temperature of the Server Room
Keeping your IT equipment cool is essential for it to work correctly. Keep the server room at 18°C. It feels much cooler than other parts of the building, which uses a lot of electricity.
As technology advances, experts recommend a temperature range of 18°C to 27°C. A target of 25.5°C, with a small allowance of +/—1.5°C, can help lower energy costs. However, setting it too high risks overheating your servers. Consider reducing the target by one or two degrees to save on expenses.
Use Natural Airflow
Open the windows to enhance air circulation, humidity levels, and air quality—at no expense.
Efficient Air Conditioning Units
Choose an air conditioner with at least a 5-ton capacity and an energy efficiency ratio (EER) of 10.5 or higher to save on energy costs. Also, perform a "manual N” calculation to find the right size of AC unit for your building and its occupants.
Replace Old Aircon & Fan Motors
You can find more energy-efficient motors for air conditioners and fans that will reduce your energy use. Make sure the replacement motor fits your current unit.
Variable Speed Drives (VSDs)
Installing variable speed drives (VSDs) on big motors can save energy by slightly lowering airflow or pump speeds (like for heating).
Chillers/Refrigerator Units
For commercial refrigeration, explore energy-efficient models that operate at or below 60 kilowatts per ton.
Water Side-Economisers
Water-side economisers are a great way to achieve "free cooling” and reduce your carbon footprint in your HVAC system. They use cooling towers to produce chilled water, which can replace chillers or refrigeration units during the colder months, especially in winter.
2. Exploring Clean Energy Solutions
Find the Right Supplier
Finding the right energy supplier ensures the delivery of quality services and full customer support. If you experience a leak or a billing issue, it’s essential to address it immediately and the right supplier will make sure to fix the problem as soon as possible.
Find a Good Balance Between Quality & Price
Energy prices may fluctuate, but the trend has been upward. Choose a supplier that offers fixed rates and delivers clean, renewable energy to safeguard your budget and support a sustainable future. Make a choice that benefits both your wallet and the planet.
Consider Joining a Demand-Side Response Program
Demand-side response programs have gained popularity since the early 2000s. Participating in this program allows you to earn rewards by reducing your electricity usage during peak times.
Leverage Incentives
Always check for government tax breaks and incentives for upgrading your systems. They may help install solar panels.
Partners with Other Businesses
Engage with local business owners to support one another and exchange energy-saving strategies. Remember to review your industry’s standards.
3. Building and System Improvements
Investing in High-Quality Insulation
Leaks and drafts can make your building less energy efficient, no matter how good your systems are. Installing insulation and double-glazed windows can reduce energy use by 10%. Ceiling insulation retains heat during winter and keeps your workplace cool in summer. Loft insulation can maintain indoor temperatures by up to 10 °C cooler.
Roofing Solution
Some roof tiles better reflect sunlight, or you can apply heat-reflective paint on your roof. This helps reduce heat absorption in summer, making cooling systems work less hard.
Consider Installing Solar Panels
Solar panels are a wise long-term investment that helps lower energy costs and uses clean energy. They require a large upfront payment, but you'll save money over time. After installation, they need minimal upkeep, and your monthly energy costs will decrease.
Invest in Cogeneration Systems
In extensive facilities, cogeneration systems—combined heat and power (CHP) systems—reuse waste heat from on-site generators to heat water and buildings.
Consider Smart Design Elements
Consider incorporating energy-efficient design features like reflective exterior mirrors and green roof spaces when constructing a custom commercial property.
Using Blinds in Sunny Areas
If your business premises is located in a sunny area, it's smart to use blinds on the windows. This keeps out direct sunlight and helps keep the building cool, especially with south-facing windows.
Shut Off Unused Areas of the Premises
If your business premises are large, consider closing off an entire area and conducting operations within just one section of the building. It will lower operational expenses and enhance operational efficiency.
Always Upgrade to Better Systems
When your equipment or machinery breaks down, consider it an opportunity to invest in better, energy-efficient options. While it may seem like a cost you don't need, you'll end up with more effective tools that last longer.
Use the Lean Manufacturing Approach
Adopting lean manufacturing can significantly improve your business. These principles help increase efficiency and productivity while reducing production costs. Take the chance to improve your operations and achieve lasting success. Consider switching to lean manufacturing today.
Utilise Production Chain Control Systems to Reduce Waste
Using automated systems or inventory software can reduce waste and overproduction in your business, lower production costs, and improve efficiency.
Adjust the Automatic Door’s Closing Delay
If your business has automatic doors, adjust their closing delay to avoid keeping them open too long, as this can allow cold or hot air to escape.
4. Monitoring Energy Usage
Carry Out Audits
Certain energy companies might offer complimentary audits to assist you in optimising energy usage efficiently. If that’s not possible, consider hiring an expert to evaluate your energy and water use, find ways to reduce your energy needs, and help you monitor your energy consumption.
Have Clear Sustainability Goals
Craft a robust CRS policy that clearly defines your business goals for energy efficiency and sustainability. Seize this chance to set a positive example and motivate meaningful change in your organisation and the wider community.
Leverage Data Analytics
By harnessing the power of data analytics, you can uncover hidden energy inefficiencies and spotlight critical areas that deserve your attention. This proactive strategy boosts efficiency and sets the stage for substantial advancements.
5. Reconsider Lighting
Use Natural Light
Natural light can improve productivity, mood, and energy levels while reducing stress and fatigue—plus, it’s free! When natural sunlight is available, keep artificial lights off or dim.
Add Lighting Sensors
Installing occupancy sensors helps control lighting without needing reminders for employees. These are especially useful in areas that aren't used often, like conference rooms, break rooms, or rarely occupied offices.
Switch to More Efficient EXIT Signs
EXIT and emergency signs should always be on, but they don’t have to cost a lot. Think about using energy-saving bulbs or LED lights. They use about a tenth of the energy and last 50 times longer than regular incandescent bulbs.
Reduce the Number of Fixtures
When replacing old lights, consider choosing modern and more efficient options. This can improve how well your lights work and increase brightness, possibly reducing the total number of fixtures you need.
Switch to Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs
Consider switching to one of the following options:
Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs): Replace incandescent bulbs with CFLs if possible. Use compatible dimming technology if you have a dimming system.
T8 (for replacing T12 fluorescent lights): When T12 lamps need to be replaced, use T8 lamps and change the magnetic ballast to an electronic one.
Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs): LED lights are the best choice. They use 75% less energy and last 25 years longer than standard bulbs.
Switch Off Unused Lights
Remind employees to turn off lights in empty areas to save energy and prefer using sensors. Also, remember to switch off unnecessary outdoor lights. By reducing the use of lighting, especially fluorescent bulbs, you can significantly extend their lifespan, thereby delaying the need for replacements and promoting a more sustainable environment. It's a common misconception that frequently switching lights on and off consumes more electricity than keeping them on.
6. Adding the Human Touch
Involve Your Employees
Treat energy-saving as a shared goal, not just a decision made by management. Encourage open communication, provide incentives, and ensure rewards for employees’ efforts. Remember that their involvement is essential for effective energy management.
Train Your Employees
Empowering your staff with the knowledge of how to save energy at work is not just beneficial, it’s essential. Understanding and implementing best practices can contribute to a greener workplace while saving the company money. You should encourage your employees to work together to create a sustainable future by implementing energy-saving measures subsequently.
Choose the Right Partners
To enhance your sustainability, begin by choosing suppliers who prioritise eco-friendly practices. Partnering with companies that disregard sustainability can undermine your energy-saving efforts.
Rethink Your Policies
Adopting sustainability and energy-saving measures is essential for a good business reputation and reducing costs. Designate a team or individual to develop new policies, work with employees, and track energy use in your organisation.
Give Back to the Community
Have you thought about the impact of your unused spaces? Sharing these areas with the community can help reduce energy waste and create local connections. Picture turning your workspace into a centre for meetings and classes, where it serves a purpose and benefits the community. Together, we can make a difference!
Go Casual
Imagine a workplace where comfort helps productivity. Allowing employees to dress for the weather gives them freedom, which can improve their mood. A relaxed dress code can make workers happier and lower heating and cooling costs because they can wear climate-appropriate clothes. Let's adopt a more flexible dress code to create a lively and efficient work environment.
7. Investing in Office Equipment
Consider Using a Power Strip
Leaving devices plugged in still uses energy, even if they're off. A good idea is to get a power strip that lets you turn them off completely. Don't forget to switch off the power strip for air conditioners because the AC adapter keeps using power unless it's unplugged. By placing these strips at each desk or cubicle, you can easily ensure that equipment is turned off in unused areas.
Use the Hibernation Feature on Devices
During brief breaks, set your laptop to sleep or hibernate mode to reduce power usage. This will save your progress, enabling you to continue exactly where you paused upon your return.
Switch Off What You Don’t Use
Turn off all devices when not in use, such as printers, scanners, microwaves, lights, air conditioners, and vending machines, especially on weekends and holidays. These devices continue to draw power while plugged in, so turning them off after hours reduces energy use. Remember to switch off computers, monitors, printers, and other electronics if the office is open on weekends and holidays but closed during regular hours.
Screen Savers
Ensure that your screen savers are fully compatible with your computer's power management settings and activate the power saver mode for optimal energy efficiency.
Use laptops instead of Desktops
Studies indicate that laptops can consume up to 80% less energy than traditional desktop computers. We should make use of this efficiency. Encourage your employees to bring their laptops to the office or provide them with one. We can significantly impact energy conservation while creating a more flexible and dynamic workplace.
Switch to Rechargeable Batteries
Invest in high-quality rechargeable batteries to enhance the longevity of your battery-powered devices. This innovative and eco-friendly choice will save you money in the long run and contribute to a greener planet.
Go Paperless
Print only when necessary to save paper and help the environment. It also uses less energy since printers consume less while idle. To further minimise paper consumption, maintain your documents and compliance online. A cloud system can improve your workflow, give authorised users access to essential documents, and help lower your energy costs.
8. Rethinking Kitchen & Bathroom
Upgrade Your Foodservice Equipment
For those in the food service industry, investing in high-quality equipment is not just a choice; it's a necessity. While cheaper options may save you money at first glance, soaring energy bills will overshadow those savings in the long run. Prioritising top-notch equipment is not just an expense—it's a wise investment that pays dividends in efficiency and reliability, ultimately enhancing your business's bottom line.
Invest in Quality Display Fridges
When buying display fridges or cabinets, choose high-quality models that last and save money. Ask your seller about energy-saving features to help your business stay sustainable and cost-effective.
Manage Your Freezer and Fridge Efficiently
Is your fridge or freezer performing well? An underfilled or overfilled unit wastes energy and costs you more. Keep your appliances stocked appropriately, especially during busy times. This small change can improve performance and lead to significant energy savings. Manage your energy consumption to help your business thrive.
9. Consider Water Efficiency
Upgrade and Insulate Your Water Heater
Proper insulation is not just a choice; it's essential for maximising the energy efficiency of your water heater. While newer models often come with built-in insulation, older ones desperately need that extra layer to save you money on energy bills and positively impact the environment.
Set the Water Temperature Wisely
By adjusting the maximum water temperature in your business, you not only prevent unnecessary heating expenses but also protect your customers and employees from burns or scalding. Envision the reassurance of establishing a safer environment while significantly reducing your energy costs.
Adopt Sustainable Gardening Practices
If your business boasts a garden or outdoor space, it’s time to embrace eco-friendly practices for watering, irrigating, or using outdoor lighting. This showcases your commitment to the planet and you can also attract eco-conscious customers who value sustainability.
Install Timed, Water-Saving Fixtures Today
If your facility has multiple bathrooms, don’t miss the opportunity to install automatic water-saving taps, urinals, and showerheads. These fixtures are not just trendy; they significantly reduce water expenses and demonstrate your dedication to responsible resource management. Your company can set the standard in conservation and enjoy financial rewards.
10. Reconsidering Transportation & Commutes
Embrace Remote Working
Due to limited options during the pandemic, remote working grew significantly. ONS data shows that in 2020, 25.9% (or 8.4 million) of the UK workforce worked from home, a rise from 12.4% in 2019. The UK government now aims to support employees' rights to flexible working, demonstrating that businesses can succeed with more adaptability.
Remote work can cut costs and lower the need for office space. It's important to invest in strong security systems and VPNs for better protection.
Hold Meetings Virtually
Adapting to virtual meetings during the pandemic has become automatic, and continuing this practice is beneficial. These technologies allow for uninterrupted business operations without needing to be in the office or at client sites. While in-person meetings have benefits, consider how much consumption decreased during lockdowns, which might influence decisions like a take-or-pay clause in energy contracts and savings on travel costs.
Incentivise Sustainable Commuting Practices
Encourage employees to use eco-friendly transport options like carpooling, biking, or public transit. Recognise their efforts with rewards and consider benefits like a cycle-to-work scheme.
Switch to a Greener Fleet
If your business uses a fleet, ensure your vehicles use environmentally friendly fuels. Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) can reduce emissions and operating costs, but also consider investing in an all-electric fleet.
Conclusion
Implementing energy-saving strategies benefits the environment and significantly reduces businesses' operational costs. Companies can create a more sustainable future by adopting the ten methods outlined above while enhancing their bottom line. Energy efficiency is not just a trend; it is a necessary investment for the longevity and success of any organisation. Taking immediate steps to optimise energy consumption will benefit the planet and provide substantial financial savings over time.