5 June 2018

10 ideas to boost energy savings in companies

Electricity, water and waste are three of the most important main areas to focus on in order to achieve the objective of energy saving companies, but they are not the only ones. If your business is conscious and you are looking to boost its sustainability, don't overlook any of the tips you will find in the following lines.

Respect for the environment is not just a theory, it means taking action, and to do so effectively, you can take note of the following best practices in energy saving companies we propose to you.

Energy saving for businesses made simpler and more effective in ten steps

Develop an energy-saving plan for businesses

Business sustainability is not a one-off initiative and, if we are to achieve the energy saving businesses, It is necessary to design an action plan to reduce, reuse, and recycle. This document will serve as a basis for involving everyone in the organisation and achieving their commitment. Don't forget to set objectives and reward achievements.

2. REDUCE ENERGY CONSUMPTION

Sometimes, the simplest actions are the most effective. You can install reminder signs in visible places that help staff remember:

Turn off the equipment at the end of the day.
Switch off lights when not in use.
Deactivate the screen savers and install the standby mode instead.
Replace traditional light bulbs with energy-efficient ones.

3. SAVE WATER

Install flow restrictors on taps.
Review and adapt cleaning methods to save water.
Proper maintenance of installations to avoid defects and leaks.

4. MINIMISE WASTE GENERATION

Reuse or recycle cardboard and paper.
Buy recycled printer cartridges.
Use reusable cups, glasses, and cutlery. Opt for ceramic, glass or porcelain over plastic, paper or polystyrene.
Avoid printing as much as possible.

5. RESETTING THE AIR-CONDITIONING SYSTEM

Prioritise the use of natural ventilation and fans whenever possible.
Close all windows and doors when the air conditioning is on.
Set an operating time after which both the heat pump and the air conditioning will be temporarily disconnected to save a few hours or minutes of operation.
Limit the temperature to be reached by the equipment, which should not go below 24 – 25 degrees in summer; nor rise above 23 – 24 in winter.

6. RATIONALISING THE USE OF TRANSPORT

Promote the use of public transport or carpooling.
Forming work groups to cycle or walk to the company each day.
Try to avoid travelling to meetings that can be held by videoconference.
Choosing solutions, such as Ticket Restaurant, which make it easier for employees to eat near the company and not need to travel home at lunchtime.

7. MONITOR THE PROGRESS OF THE PLAN OF ACTION Energy saving for businesses

Track progress.
Measure and evaluate results on a regular basis, comparing achievements with agreed objectives.
Extend the plan to meet new targets, moving towards continuous improvement.

8. FIND UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION

Obtain up-to-date information on sustainability topics to adjust the plan and prevent it from becoming obsolete.
Refer to Chambers of Commerce and industrial associations for sector-specific information.

9. TRAIN AND INFORM STAFF

To design a training and information programme that encourages employee participation and motivates them to commit to the goal of sustainability and energy saving businesses.
Prepare new joiners to ensure their rapid alignment with a sustainable company culture.