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FEATURE: GREEN BUSINESS


An energy efficient workplace W


ith so much spent on heating and lighting and with energy prices always on the rise, business owners should take every


opportunity to reduce their energy consumption. Insight explores ways in which businesses can reduce their energy costs. Not only are you doing your bit for the planet, but by


taking the steps to save energy in the workplace can save a lot of money.


AUDIT CURRENT ENERGY USE Investing money in an energy audit will save you more over time. The easiest and quickest way to determine how much energy is being used, an audit will also highlight areas were savings can be made. While a professional auditing company can make a more thorough assessment, there are ways to pinpoint areas that need addressing yourself – you can easily inspect lighting and electrical equipment and check the heating and air-conditioning. You may discover that it might be worth investing in newer, more energy-efficient electrical products.


LIGHTING An obvious move is to replace office lights with LED energy efficient bulbs, but is that enough? Many offices have storerooms, photocopier rooms and kitchens – with lights that are left on all day, regardless of how in use those rooms are. A simple fix is to label light switches with reminders and get everyone into the habit of turning off the lights when they leave, but you can also invest in motion sensors that will only turn the lights on when movement is detected. It is also worth noting that outdoor lighting (solar powered lights are a great choice) should only be switched on when necessary and relying on daylight in the summer is also another great way to save.


SWITCH OFF Why pay to run equipment when no one is there to use it? Follow the simple rule – if it’s not being used, switch it off. At the end of each day, make sure your staff turn off their computers, or at the very least, use the hibernate option. (It may also be a good idea to get your staff into the habit of turning their computers off if they’re going to be away from their desks for long periods of time throughout the day). Also, check to see if there is any other equipment, such as printers, photocopiers, or display equipment, that can be turned off overnight, and remember to turn off the lights before leaving!


48 CHAMBERLINK FEBRUARY 2016


Turning off lights and equipment is a great way to save money and energy


HEATING AND AIR-CONDITIONING While employers have a duty to ensure their staff work in comfortable conditions, the last thing you want is a battle between the heating and air-conditioning systems! While the heating is on, keep all doors and windows closed and ensure that radiators are not blocked by furniture – but don’t waste energy heating unused rooms and spaces such as corridors and storerooms. During the summer, open all doors and windows to allow cool air to circulate, and keep the blinds closed in rooms affected by direct sunlight.


RAISING AWARENESS Finally... there is no point implementing an energy saving system if your staff aren’t aware of it! Make sure every member of staff is on board with the changes and encourage them to come up with the own ways to go green.


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