Top 10 Business Strategies for Energy Efficiency

Commercial energy prices can put a financial strain on any business, and those costs may rise as the business grows. The business can always find the cheapest electricity supplier in their area, but there are other, everyday methods that can be used. While these everyday tips may seem small, they add up to help lower the electric bill.

1. Replace incandescent lights with LED. Incandescent EXIT signs should be replaced with LED signs. LED lights last 50 times longer and use roughly one-tenth the wattage of an incandescent sign.
2. Use lighting occupancy sensors. The sensors work automatically and can tell how full or empty a room is, then turning lights on or off based on the occupancy. It is a good idea to use sensors in rooms that are not used continuously, such as a conference room.
3. Natural daylight is your friend. Limit the use of electric lighting if enough sunlight is available to light an interior space. Also make sure that outdoor lighting is turned off during the daylight.
4. Preventative HVAC maintenance. Your heating, venting, and air conditioning equipment should undergo regular maintenance. Air filters should be changed or cleaned monthly, any leaks should be repaired, all hot and cold appliances should be cleaned, and replace any defective equipment.
5. Monitor office thermostats. During winter months set the thermostat between 65 and 68 during business hours and 60 to 65 after closing. In the summer set it between 78 and 80 during business hours and above 80 degrees after closing.
6. Control thermostats. A business can save 2-3% on their cooling costs by setting the thermostat up one degree during summer months. Some businesses may even consider a locking device on the thermostat to keep the temperature set where they want it.
7. Save on energy and internal heat from equipment. The business can conserve on energy and lower internal heat after their work day by turning off daily used equipment such as computers, printers, scanners, monitors, and copiers.
8. Invest in laptops or tablets. A laptop can save 80-90% when it comes to electrical cost, as opposed to using a desk-top computer.
9. Shut down inactive equipment. Plug load controllers can be installed in cubicles to control multiple pieces of equipment, such as monitors and lights. The controllers use a motion sensor that allows the equipment to be turned off when the cubicle is not being used.
10. Promote energy-saving practices. Appoint an employee or a group of employees to hold the office accountable and promote good energy uses. The employee or employees should work with management to implement new ideas and strategies.

Using employees to monitor the office is a way to help the business monitor themselves, and implementing all of these tips will help a business reduce their electric bill regardless of commercial energy prices. The business can also use Star Energy Partners to find competitive rates with our eCAP program.