With growing concerns about the environmental damage caused by fossil fuels, more and more consumers today are opting for renewable sources of energy. Both businesses and domestic users are increasingly adopting solar and wind energy. With the advent of cheap and energy-efficient PV panels and wind turbines, the once steep initial investments are now manageable.
However, even with the adoption of renewable energy sources, the overall costs of utilities are on the rise. Incorporation of solar or wind energy requires significant changes in infrastructure which require capital and resources. It’s ultimately the consumer that bears the cost of such rising energy prices and investments on renewable energy.
Hence, today it has become incredibly important to adopt smart energy plans and reduce our electricity consumption. Companies, as well as individuals, need to assess their consumption patterns and actively look for ways to reduce energy.
5 ways to reduce energy consumption
You can still reduce your energy consumption and lower your bill, even though energy companies are continually raising prices. Below are some affordable, quick ways to reduce business and home energy consumption and lower your energy bills.
1. Unplug devices when not in use
Most modern appliances today have a “standby” mode when not in use. It’s a fairly common practice in offices to leave workstations running throughout the night. Even domestic appliances such as TVs, washing machines, coffee makers and microwaves are often left on in one mode or another.
Devices continue to use power when they’re plugged in, standby mode or not. While it can be a little extra work for you and your team, unplugging devices when they’re not in use can be a great way to quickly reduce your energy use.
2. Use Energy Star appliances
It’s easy to write off appliances as a small source of power consumption. In reality, appliances can quickly rack up a sizable electric bill. Energy Star appliances are any appliances that have been rated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as energy efficient. These appliances use anywhere from 10-50% less energy than their non-Energy Star counterparts.
Despite using much less energy, Energy Star appliances are also similarly priced to non-Energy Star appliances. Coupled with the fact that you can find Energy Star rated HVAC systems and air conditioners, washers and dryers, ovens, and more, there’s little reason to go with an Energy Star appliance. Even the process of using hot water requires water heating from your heater and can add up in utility costs. Switching every appliance you can to Energy Star will result in savings, and fast.
3. Improve your air conditioning
Air-conditioning systems are one of the major load sources in any commercial or domestic facility. Maintaining optimum working conditions requires offices and industrial facilities to regulate the temperature and provide adequate illumination.
Instead of using heating/cooling systems, companies can focus on greener methods of climate control such as cross-ventilation, insulated rooftops and ceilings, sealed doors and windows, and energy efficient LED lights. If air-conditioning is an absolute necessity, then use a modern AC system that allows you to set a thermostat and force automatic shut off of the unit when the optimal temperature is reached.
4. Optimize company travel
Electric cars have transformed modern transportation. They’ve not only become viable but are also as powerful as regular cars. As costs have continued to drive down, electric cars have become more and more common, making economic and environmentally sound travel a possibility.
Transportation is a common feature of industrial facilities and domestic life. Companies often employ the use of on-campus shuttles and bus services for their employees. Switching to electric vehicles adopting practices like car-pooling and public transport is a sure shot way of reducing energy consumption.
5. Use an ESCO service
An Energy Service Company (ESCO) will often provide organizations with smart energy plans and technologies for reducing energy usage as part of an audit. These professionals analyze the energy usage patterns of organizations and identify flaws in their practices. ESCOs then guide the company through the entire process of energy saving till it is reflected in company earnings.
Some ESCOs will even offer energy plans that will work in tandem with energy-saving practices to maximize energy reduction. If you want to see how much energy and money you can save by switching to renewable energy, schedule your free consultation with Phoenix Energy today.
Reducing energy consumption, building your business
Business expenses can quickly add up, leaving you overwhelmed and in a panic. Reducing energy consumption can result in lower bills, more savings, and ultimately more power to grow your business. Best of all, reducing energy consumption is a great way to ensure our planet is here for generations and generations to enjoy.