One of the most challenging aspects of running a business is dealing with high energy costs. If you have a huge office space, you need to stock up on light fixtures, heating and cooling equipment, computers, and other electronic devices, but these contribute to your escalating energy bills.
But even if you have a small space, like most startups, that doesn’t stop energy costs from being a major financial concern.
A company’s high energy costs shouldn’t be a permanent problem. Solutions involve changing a lot of habits, as well as laying out more money. But consider it a necessary investment; the outcome is lower energy costs.
That said, here are some ways to save on energy costs for your growing company:
1. Identify the Largest Contributor to Energy Costs
In workplaces, the HVAC system, along with lighting, are the largest contributors to high energy costs. If the HVAC system you’re currently using isn’t as energy-efficient, you might need to have it inspected by a professional and learn ways on how you can improve it.
One way to reduce the amount of energy consumed by HVAC systems is to upgrade its system itself. You may either purchase a new boiler or have balancing valves installed. A high-performance PICV or Pressure-Independent Control Valve, for example, can provide hydronic balance and an improved temperature control function to your HVAC system, both of which maximize its efficiency and reduce energy consumption.
Other ways to save on HVAC energy costs are to regularly change its air filters, switch them off where they aren’t needed, and to seal ducts that may cause leaks.
As for lighting, opt for natural light when it’s an option. If not, you can consider opting for sensor lighting to ensure that they’re only switched on in rooms where they’re needed.
2. Replace Desktop Computers with Laptops
Desktop computers need to be plugged in while in use, and if you and your employees work at least 8 hours a day, then you’re consuming way too much energy. During your next computer upgrade, switch out all desktops in favor of laptops so that you’d only use electricity when charging the device.
3. Implement New Policies and Procedures
Uneconomical practices are another major contributor to high energy costs. As a business owner, you should be able to point out the business procedures that waste energy, as well as your employees’ wasteful habits, such as charging their personal electronics in the office, not switching off the lights in lavatories, and not unplugging their laptops even after being fully charged.
An example of an unsustainable or uneconomical business procedure is using too many papers. If it’s already hurting your printing costs, consider switching to digitalised documents. Limit printing only to those that need physical copies.
Remind employees to charge their own electronic devices at home and involve them in your goal to reduce energy costs so that they’d watch their own habits as well.
4. Spruce Up Your Office With Indoor Plants
This may sound like an unusual solution, but indoor plants can also regulate a room’s temperature by emitting some of their moisture, which is helpful during hot summers. They can also purify the air, which means you no longer need to buy a separate air-purifying device.
5. Explore Sustainable Solutions
The rapidly spreading effects of global warming have prompted many business owners to turn to sustainable resources to run their enterprises. One example of a cost-saving and sustainable practice is using energy-efficient lighting, such as CFL or LED light bulbs. These types consume 75% less energy.
Another example is integrating motion-sensor technology into the plumbing system. This reduces water costs and lightens your company’s water footprint.
And of course, recycling and reusing cannot be out of the picture. Implement a recycling program for your company and gather everyone’s ideas on sustainability. Stay committed, and your company will be finally free of unnecessarily high energy costs.
