9 simple energy saving tips for your business

The costs associated with energy usage are often overlooked by business owners. Electricity, water and gas can be surprisingly expensive, even for smaller operations, so any method of increasing efficiency is definitely worth looking into. Here are some handy energy saving tips to help you get started.

1. Get your timing right. Utility companies often have high to off peak times over the course of a day. Minimising usage during high peak times can significantly lower your electricity costs.

2. Invest in CFLs. CFLs last longer and consume less power than regular lightbulbs. You may also want to consider retrofitting, the process of replacing the luminaire only and not the entire fixture. This will save you money both through cheaper light costs and easier installations.

3. Get your computers on board. Make sure your computers and laptops are set to hibernate after a certain period of inactivity, and that they’re switched off completely when not in use.

4. Save paper. Avoid printing unless it’s completely necessary. Not only will this save paper and help the environment, it will also reduce the energy needed to run the printer and also increase the printer’s longevity.

5. Switch off. Turn off and plug out all electrical equipment outside of office hours. Kitchen appliances, scanners, printers, air conditioners and computers all consume energy when they’re plugged in, even if they’re completely switched off.

6. Get shady. Planting shady trees outside of your building might seem like a drastic measure but cleverly positioned landscaping can actually save you a lot of money in the long run. Trees and hedges can protect your office from cold winds during the winter and (although we might not have to worry about it too much here in Ireland) the sun’s rays during the summer. This will reduce heating and air conditioning bills respectively.

7. The modern meeting. Software like Skype allows businesspeople the world over to hold virtual meetings, make calls and even give presentations without ever having to go through the hassle (and expense) of travelling long distances to meet clients and associates. Availing of this cheap, modern technology could save you a fortune on petrol and flight tickets.

8. Home comforts. If it’s possible in your line of work, consider allowing your employees to work from home on certain designated days. Having fewer staff in the office should reduce your energy consumption and lower utility bills.

9. Pool ideas. Everyone at your company should be encouraged to offer up ideas for saving energy and lowering costs. Ideally, energy efficiency is a culture that will grow naturally in your business as long as everyone is on the same team.

If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

All the best,

The team at GMIB.ie