Some businesses or industries are more energy-intensive than others. Despite this, energy needs to be consumed reasonably. This helps the company manage costs and lessen its harmful impact on the environment. A study proposed that several small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have reduced their energy consumption by upgrading equipment. So, how can you make your business more energy-efficient? Here are some tips for improving your workplace energy efficiency.
Leverage natural lighting
By leveraging natural lighting, you can make your workplace more energy-efficient. Encouraging employees to draw up blinds and window coverings during the day helps your business save on energy costs you would have incurred at the time. Studies have shown that you can save up to 75% of your energy consumption by allowing more natural light in your buildings and reducing cooling expenses. Not only does this help your business save energy, but it also positively impacts your employees. The warm rays from the sun provide them with energy and exposure to healthy amounts of sun rays. It also prevents issues associated with working in a poorly lit room, such as moodiness or deteriorating eyesight.
Switch to energy-efficient lighting.
Do you want some additional ideas about energy savings? Switching to energy-efficient lighting like LED bulbs can save you up to 80% on lighting. However, more than a simple switch would be required to enjoy the benefits of being energy-efficient. Suppose you switch to energy-efficient lighting, but lights are left on, even in rooms with no one. In that case, you would be driving your energy costs up, which defeats the purpose. Therefore, it is also essential to implement measures to ensure these lighting solutions are beneficial. Could you consider installing some occupancy sensor monitors to automate your lighting controls? Focused lighting can help your energy-saving efforts by focusing on only a specific area rather than your entire room.
Please take a look at your HVAC system.
Gaps and holes in your doors, windows, and walls can cause either heated or cool air to escape from the room. This can cause your HVAC system to work extra to keep the room at desired temperatures. Unfortunately, the extra work means higher energy consumption. Therefore, it is practical to assess various "air exit" points and fill them up. You can also introduce other strategies, such as automatic doors to reduce the heat escapes if you have many footfalls in and out of the office. You should also review your HVAC systems to ensure they are in good condition. If you’re based in the North Carolina region, here are some North Carolina commercial HVAC companies that can help you.
Could you perform an energy audit?
You can perform an informal audit or hire a professional electrician to perform an energy audit of your workplace. Although doing this yourself may help your business save money, an expert energy auditor can identify any leaks in your workplace and make appropriate recommendations to save considerably more. Consider using services like those offered by totallyampedelectrical.co.nz for professional energy audits. It can also help to keep track of your energy bills to create an energy-efficient workplace policy. Check your energy progress every month and implement more energy-efficient strategies in energy-consuming areas. As an employer, you have to take responsibility to improve your workplace energy efficiency. However, don't forget to involve your employees as they play a crucial role in creating a workplace sustainability culture.
When optimizing energy efficiency in your workplace, partnering with a reliable and skilled electrician can make a significant difference. Finding an experienced Electrician, Glen Iris (or a similar electrician near you), can help you identify and implement energy-efficient solutions tailored to your needs. Suppose your air conditioning units are old and power-hungry, for example. In that case, an energy audit conducted by a local electrician will help uncover the worst offenders, allowing you to repair or replace them and make energy-efficiency improvements.
Encourage flexible schedules
Flexible working schedules like scheduled days for remote working or a shift system can significantly reduce the office's energy costs. Many businesses chose these flexible working schedules from the onset of the Coronavirus pandemic and saw great results. Due to this, among many other reasons, research has shown that these options are here to stay. Implementing a flexible work schedule means you spend less on catering to the needs of your employees at the workplace. Your business will save more on electricity, heating and cooling, and other expenses. Likewise, your staff saves time and money, making them more efficient and productive. It's the perfect win-win situation.
Invest in energy-efficient solutions
The running cost for your old printers and fridge can be a significant drain on your energy bills every month. It is helpful to invest in appliances and equipment with high energy ratings while matching your business needs. This way, you wouldn't have to pay any extra to keep them running. For example, you wouldn't need to purchase too big fridges for your workplace when one should be enough for your small business. You may also want to consider upgrading your commercial garage doors enhanced with strength and energy-saving abilities through UV protection and better insulation.
Go green
Whether running a fast-food restaurant or a multinational business, you need to make your business eco-friendly. 'Go Green' can perhaps be the buzzword today, yet it can be helpful to take appropriate steps to embrace the culture. In addition to the several benefits like creating a sustainable environment, reducing and improving overall workplace efficiency, adopting a green culture means syncing with the environment and ensuring reasonable and optimal use of your scarce resources. Additionally, your business can enjoy some tax and legal benefits, including credits, rebates, and other incentives from the government for its green efforts.
Turn off electronic appliances when not in use
It is vital to switch off all electrical appliances when they aren’t being used. This saves you energy costs and can help prevent mechanical devices from failing and causing major fires when nobody is in the workplace. Additionally, consider unplugging any devices after turning them off as it could draw some energy. The US Department of Energy has indicated that, on average, 75% of the electricity used in home appliances is consumed when electronics are not in use. However, the workplace isn't any exception.
Install solar panels
Installing a solar panel together with a hot water system can be one of the best energy-efficient investments your business can make. The cost of installing a solar panel can be expensive in the short term. However, it is more cost-efficient to generate your power. If your business is located in a sunny area, you can consider reselling unused energy to local businesses and, if possible, to the grid for credit on your electricity bill.
Although these tips should help you save energy in the workplace, it would be best to involve everybody in building an energy-efficient culture, especially when it isn't a top priority. Employer engagement is crucial for achieving this in the workplace.
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