There are lots of things your company can do to save energy and save money.
Here are some tips from the Carbon Trust.
Most businesses easily cut their heating, lighting and power bills by up
to 20% without any capital investment. Some companies have even saved 50%,
making them more profitable and competitive.
Tips for all
- 'If you can't measure it, you can't manage it'
.
Check regularly on your consumption of electricity, gas and oil, and check
that your bills relate to what you actually use, rather than an estimate.
- Switch off lights in empty rooms
Turn off lights in empty rooms and corridors - especially at the end of
the day. This can save up to 15% of your energy bill.
- Keep windows closed in cold weather
If staff are too warm, turn the heating down instead.
- Use just the light you need
Lights too bright in corridors? Remove or switch off alternate fittings.
- Use daylight
It's free - so keep windows and skylights clean and clear.
- Clean light fittings annually
Dirt reduces lighting efficiency, encouraging people to switch more lights
on.
- Too hot?
Set the thermostat at 19° - costs rise by 8% for every 1° increase.
- Don't heat unused space
Storerooms, corridors and areas where there's heavy physical work can be
set to lower temperatures. Reduce heating during holidays and weekends.
- Thermostats
Check that thermostats are sited out of draughts and away from either cold
or hot spots.
- Keep radiators clear
Don't block radiators with furniture -it reduces efficiency and output.
- Consult your colleagues
Ask your colleagues where they think energy is being wasted, and
for their ideas about saving energy.
As well as the general advice shown here, the Carbon Trust can help you
focus
on savings that are specific to the food and drink industry and
provide further
help via the helpline, web
or site
visits.
For
further information visit the Carbon Trust's energy website
