Becoming an energy saving business may seem like an onerous and potentially expensive task but this is far from the case. By introducing a number of simple and often free measures you can soon count yourself as an energy saving business. And think of any work involved in terms of the bottom line. A 20% cut in energy costs can represent the same benefit as a 5% increase in sales for many businesses. In addition the improvements will also have a positive effect on the environment, something all of us should be considering.
To become an energy saving business the first step is to look at the complete picture. Performing a series of ‘energy walk arounds’ at different times of day will provide the opportunity to look at where you can start to make savings. Consider heating, lighting, recycling, water consumption and electrical equipment and then put together an action plan of how to move forward.
The next step in becoming an energy saving business is to involve the staff. Small measures taken by many will have an enormous impact and it is important that everyone appreciates what can be done. It may be an idea for example to make one person in each area of the workplace responsible for ensuring that electrical equipment is switched off at the end of every day.
Good housekeeping is also paramount in terms of being an energy saving business. Simple measures such as ensuring that draughts are excluded and that windows and lights are kept clean will all have an effect. In addition consider fitting motion sensors on lights in areas which are not in constant use such as toilets and kitchens, and fit slimline fluorescent tubes or energy saving bulbs to reduce power consumption.
For information on Climate Change Agreements and the Climate Change Levy click here.
These are just a few of the simple measures which could be taken, but take a look at the Carbon Trust website for more detailed information and guidance.
