Ideostone

Electricity and energy use

  1. Post notices by all light switches reminding staff to switch off when leaving a room.
  2. Buy an electricity monitor (for example www.theowl.com) to check electricity usage in different parts of the business and to monitor usage regularly to minimise the risk of unnoticed waste.
  3. If possible, reduce the temperature in different areas of the premises to reflect usage.
  4. Ensure computers, printers, copiers and all other electrical equipment is switched off at the mains each night.
  5. If power points are difficult to reach, consider installing trailing sockets with individual switches to facilitate switching off at night and when equipment is not in use.
  6. Carry out an inventory of light fittings and investigate whether lower power bulbs can be used and replace when possible.
  7. Look into low power options for fluorescent fittings in offices and warehouses.
  8. Speak to your electricity supplier to determine how much of their supply is generated using renewable sources. Ask if they have a renewable tariff you could switch to. If not, and they are not helpful, consider switching to a ‘green’ energy supplier such as Ecotricity or Good Energy. The carbon footprint of renewable energy is significantly lower than a conventional supply so this could have a big impact on the carbon footprint of your business.
  9. If you operate retail premises or have regular visitors try to keep the door closed to prevent loss of heat. Alternatively, consider automatic doors or an air curtain.