The first tip is going to seem obvious but using less energy and switching electrical items off when you are not using them is a simple and easy way to save money.
1. Turn it off
Here at Control Energy Costs, we have clients with multi-site businesses, and we will be asked why one site is using more electricity than an almost identical site. The answer is almost always down to lights or equipment being left on overnight or when not in use. This is especially true of the hospitality sector, so make sure whoever is last to leave the building at night switches all the lights off.
2. Negotiate a better deal with your supplier
Negotiating a better deal with your supplier to secure a more favourable rate, taking into consideration energy market trends and contract length can save significant amounts of money. If you have a trusted broker, for example, Control Energy Costs, then they can help you look at your options and compare them on a like for like basis and ensure a price is secured at the optimum time.
3. Conduct an audit
Conducting an audit can be a useful exercise to ensure you’re paying the right cost for your energy and the associated costs. It might be worth looking into refunds or rebates if you are owed money. For some businesses, there will be tax breaks that they might not be aware they are entitled to claim, which will be worth investigating.
4. Replace the lights with LED lighting
Light Emitting Diode (LED) lights require far less electricity than incandescent lighting, halogen lighting or Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFL). LED lights last on average 20 times longer, meaning that although the upfront cost might be higher, you certainly won’t be replacing the bulbs nearly as regularly.
LED lights are around 10 times more energy efficient than other types of lighting so there will be significant savings if you’re spending a lot on lighting your premises.
Beyond LED lights, there are a number of ways to reduce usage and CEC would be happy to discuss the options available to you.