Building managers have been feeling the pinch of Alberta’s volatile energy prices. Savvy business operators know that making even small energy-wise choices can help keep these unstable costs under control. To fire up your savings, try these energy saving tips to lower your power bills and “green up” your properties.
Lighting can be the biggest energy drain at work. An easy win to save energy is to simply upgrade your incandescent bulbs with energy efficient models like CFLs or LEDs which use a lot less electricity. Making the switch will pay off immediately – a single LED bulb will last about 20 times longer than an incandescent. It’s a smart, affordable option.
Use less light at work. Flip the switch and turn off lights when not in use – think bathrooms, lunchrooms, copy rooms and conference rooms. Use task lighting instead of overhead lights. Install dimmers or occupancy sensors to help control light levels and save up to 70 per cent in lighting costs. If it’s possible, let natural sunlight illuminate your workplace – that natural solar glow is an easily accessible, zero cost option.
Power down equipment. Be energy smart and stop wasting electricity. Turn off office equipment like computers, monitors, copiers and printers when they’re not being used. Leaving a copier on 24/7 can cost more than $150 every year in unnecessary energy costs. Don’t forget about coffee makers, microwaves, toasters and other appliances.
Install programmable or smart thermostats to automatically adjust temperature settings. Some models even allow you to manage the climate in your business remotely from your phone or a web app.
Update electronics. When it’s time to replace office equipment and electronics, go for the most energy-efficient Energy Star models to help manage costs over the long term. They use less energy for daily tasks and automatically go into low-power mode when not in use.
Motivate staff to be energy champions. Getting your team on board is the best way to reduce costs and save energy. Educate and inspire your team to make small changes day-to-day that support your energy conservation goals. Get people programmed to make energy conservation part of their workday. Consider forming a “green team” to spearhead energy saving activities, put reminder signs in key places and celebrate successes to motivate action.
Saving energy is good for business and good for the environment. Whether you run a small business, industrial operation or a corporate facility, remember that small changes can lead to big savings every year.
If you haven’t already spoken with a trusted energy advisor, now’s the time to reach out. Energy providers like ATCOenergy offer free, no-obligation assessments and expert advice to help you understand how your energy use habits and patterns are affecting your bottom line.