On average in the UK it is estimated that 20%
of the energy consumed is wasted by businesses.
On average in the UK it is estimated that 20% of the energy consumed is wasted by businesses. This could be as simple as leaving lights on, ventilation left running when buildings are empty, and heat loss through poor insulation.
Help from central government can be found here and information about energy efficiency grants and schemes can be found here. Durham County Council also have the in-house expertise and support and case studies from businesses they have supported from the Business Energy Efficiency Programme (BEEP).
Staff awareness and training (Behavioural Change). Involve your employees– their combined actions and knowledge if utilised correctly can provide a quick win. As a rule of thumb, it is worth investing 1% of your total energy/water costs in awareness campaigns and training. It is quite common to achieve savings between 5-25% by people-based initiatives without the need for capital investment in equipment. Further details on involving your employees within your energy management plan can be found here.
Reducing consumption stands out as one of the most immediate and cost-effective measures for saving energy. The simple act of switching things off can yield significant benefits. Despite its apparent simplicity, many of us find it challenging to implement consistently. Whether it's a light switch or a PC, powering down at the plug is essential. Standby mode may seem inconsequential, but over time, the trickle of electricity it consumes can accumulate into a considerable waste. By adopting this habit, you can stem the flow of unnecessary energy expenditure, leading to substantial savings over time.
Performing a thorough site inspection during off-hours is crucial for minimizing energy consumption. Verify that all non-essential equipment such as lights, air conditioning, and compressed air systems are switched off when not in use. This practice not only saves energy and reduces costs but also promotes environmental responsibility within your organization. Regular monitoring allows for continuous improvement in energy efficiency, contributing to a sustainable future.
Consider insulating building fabric and fitting draft excluders
Limit energy loss
01
Government guidance recommends a minimum of 16 Celsius or 13 Celsius if employees are doing physical work while ensuring temperatures are comfortable
Lower workplace temperatures
02
Think about fitting timers to lighting and workplace equipment. This can include lighting sensors that switch off room lighting when not in use or timers that switch equipment off during non-working hours
Automatic sensors
03
Installing LED lights is often presented as the easiest way to save money; however, if done correctly as part of a coordinated arrangement the savings can be even greater. Intelligent LEDs need to be fitted, they come with their own controls so that they turn themselves on and off, adjust themselves automatically depending on the availability of natural light and last a long time.
LED Lighting
04
There can be substantial savings to be had with these, changing motors for variable speed drives can save up to 30% of the consumption, get the motors checked, and stopping air leaks can have the same or a bigger impact. It is often better to get a new compressor as it will be more energy efficient.
Motors and Compressors
05
Quick win energy-saving ideas include
Further details on what to include in your workplace checklist can be found here.