11 Business Energy Saving Tips
Depending on the size of your business, energy overheads can make a significant dent in your company budget. According to data from Reducer, SMEs in the UK are set to overspend by a whopping £7.6bn on their utilities in 2021, which leaves us wondering. What can be done to ensure your business is saving on energy costs?
If you would like to read more information or learn more about the pricing of business energy, you can do so here.
Here, we delve into all the best tips on how to save money.
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Switch energy suppliers
One of the main ways for your business to save money on energy is to switch providers. Most companies avoid this option as it seems complicated, but it doesn’t have to be.
A lot of the work can be handled by the new, cheaper supplier, or you can hire an energy broker to negotiate a better deal on your behalf. Doing this will result in considerable energy savings for your business.
Note that if you opt to hire a third party to negotiate a better deal for you, you’ll have to sign a letter of authority (LoA). If you’d like an overview of what an LoA is, look at our helpful guide here (link to LoA article).
2. Improve air conditioning efficiency
Ensure doors and windows are shut when air conditioning is on since not doing so will defeat the air-con’s purpose in the first place. If possible, also consider switching off the air conditioning at night. Another mistake to avoid is switching on air conditioning too early. Ensure that the temperature in the room warrants aircon before switching it on.
3. Implement energy-saving bulbs
Energy-saving bulbs use between 70% to 80% less electricity compared with traditional lights. The best part is that they last longer, meaning that maintenance costs will also be reduced.
4. Consider microgeneration
If your company budget allows it, you should consider investing in your microgeneration system. Creating your energy through a small-scale operation will eventually pay off the investment cost and save you money on energy. Another benefit is that any excess energy you produce can be sold to the National Grid.
Types of microgeneration systems vary, the most popular of which are solar panels and hydropower.
5. Conduct an energy audit
Having an idea of your energy consumption habits will help you better understand where cuts can be made. An energy audit will identify critical areas for improvement and naturally develop a plan that you can implement to save on costs.
6. Replace non-energy-efficient equipment
Businesses should make sure only to acquire certified energy-efficient equipment. These can be laptops, printers, copiers or monitors. Companies should also consider replacing desktop computers with laptops, as the latter consume up to 80% less electricity.
Replacing less energy-efficient equipment in the office will improve energy consumption and reduce maintenance costs, as older equipment breaks down more often. Your staff will also be grateful for it.
7. Take advantage of natural lighting.
If your business workplace has the advantage of having lots of natural light, make sure that these entry points are clear. Letting in as much natural light as possible will reduce the need to use electricity and, according to some studies, can help improve the mood and productivity of workers. Win-win!
8. Regularly maintain your air conditioning system.
An outdated or poorly maintained air conditioning system can increase your energy costs. You can also improve efficiency by regularly replacing filters.
9. Install a smart meter
A smart reader can give you a better indication of your business energy costs without the need for a complete energy audit. This option can help you better understand where problems lie and allow you to tackle them accordingly.
10. Invest in suitable motion sensors
Motion sensing lighting is a great way to ensure that electricity is only being used when necessary. However, make sure that you invest in suitable quality sensors and that they are regularly maintained. Sensors that don’t work properly can be annoying to live with and won’t make your workers happy.
11. Brief your staff on the importance of energy efficiency
Involve your staff in the process by ensuring that they are adequately educated on what they can do to save energy. If you can make it into an office competition, you can improve worker morale whilst saving on your energy bills. To remind workers, you can also put up flyers and posters with energy-efficiency tips around the workplace as a constant, gentle reminder. Find out more here
11 Business Energy Saving Tips
So there you have it! We hope we have helped you to discover some new ways your business can save energy, and therefore money, time and the environment!
Other useful links about Business Energy
EDF Business Energy
Deemed Rate Energy Contracts
What is an Energy Performance Certificate
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