Energy efficiency advice
The Carbon Trust provides free, practical advice to business and public sector organisations to help reduce energy use. Saving energy saves you money – and helps combat climate change by cutting carbon emissions.
Most businesses could quickly cut their heating, lighting and power bills by 10% or more without any capital investment. With a little investment savings of 20% are realistic and some companies have even cut their energy costs in half, becoming more profitable and competitive as a result.
As well as the general advice shown here, the Carbon Trust can help you focus on savings that are specific to your sector and provide further help via the helpline, web or site visits.
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Lighting tips
Turn off lights in empty rooms and corridors - especially at the end of the day. This can save up to 15% of your lighting bill. Use only 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.
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Heating tips
Too hot? - set the thermostat at 19°C - costs rise by 8% for every 1°C 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. Keep radiators clear - don't block radiators with furniture - it reduces efficiency and output. Thermostats - check that thermostats are sited out of draughts and away from either cold or hot spots. Keep windows closed in cold weather - if staff are too warm, turn the heating down instead.
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Energy Management tips
'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. Ask your colleagues where they think energy is being wasted, and for their ideas about saving energy.