It’s no secret that Aussie businesses have been bearing the brunt of energy price shocks, especially over the last 18 months. We’re living in an era where business energy efficiency isn’t just a trend - it’s a necessity. Businesses of all sizes are feeling the pinch of rising energy costs and the pressing need to reduce their carbon footprint.
But in reality, how can a business really reduce their overall energy consumption, and by default, their energy bill? The answer may be simpler than you think. As part of NSW Small Business Month (October 2023), we’ve partnered with the NSW Small Business Commission to bring you 31 energy saving tips that can help your business cut energy costs without sacrificing productivity or comfort.
1. Get an energy bill review
Kickstart your journey with an energy bill review from Zembl. Before you look at how to reduce your overall consumption, you need to know that you’re not paying more than you should be for energy in the first place. We’ll compare your current energy plan against alternatives that are available from our panel of top Aussie business electricity & gas retailers. It’s obligation-free, and if we can find you savings we’ll be able to switch you to the better plan on the spot. Simple as that. Reach out to us today for your free business energy review.
2. Seal air ducts
Don't let your hard-earned money escape through leaky ducts. Sealing air ducts can drastically reduce heating and cooling costs.
3. Improve heating and cooling systems
Outdated HVAC systems can be energy guzzlers. Upgrading to more efficient systems is a great way to curb energy consumption and enhance your business's sustainability.
4. Replace windows
Single-pane windows are a relic of the past. Double or triple-pane windows provide better insulation, reducing both heating and cooling expenses, and shows your business’s commitment to modern, efficient energy practices.
5. Upgrade lighting
Swap out traditional incandescent bulbs for LEDs. This simple switch can result in significant savings.
6. Invest in energy-efficient appliances
Make a confident investment in appliances that use less electricity, qualify for rebates or tax incentives, and require fewer repairs or replacements.
7. Prevent ‘vampire’ energy drain
Stand against 'vampire' energy. Unplugging chargers and equipment when not in use prevents unnecessary energy consumption. Do you really know how much energy your Wi-Fi router is using?
8. Time your signage
Illuminate your signs only when needed. This direct move conserves energy and extends the lifespan of your signage.
9. Turn off the lights
Embrace the motto "lights off, savings on." Encourage employees to turn off lights when leaving a room. This will create an energy-conscious culture within your business.
10. Program your thermostats
Use smart thermostats to lower temperatures during off-hours. This optimises energy consumption and keeps your office comfortable when it's occupied.
11. Reduce peak demand
Avoid high-cost energy periods by shifting non-essential power use to off-peak times. An assertive approach to cost-saving that’s good for both your bottom line and the environment.
12. Establish energy-efficient practices
Build a culture of energy consciousness. Simple practices like shutting down computers at the end of the day can lead to significant savings over time.
13. Maintain equipment
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and energy efficiency of your equipment.
14. Use solar power
Show your conviction by investing in solar power. This renewable energy source can significantly reduce your energy bills and carbon footprint. Our Solar Energy Experts are always on-hand to help deliver long-term cost saving solutions and improve your business’s green credentials. Get in touch with us today to see if solar is a good fit for your business.
15. Optimise your heating and cooling systems
Regular servicing ensures your HVAC systems are performing at their best, improving energy efficiency and saving you money.
16. Maximise natural light
Harness the power of the sun. Using natural light reduces your need for artificial lighting and creates a healthier workspace.
17. Use a power strips
Even when they're off, devices draw power. Power strips cut this phantom power, saving both energy and money.
18. Insulate your office
Quality insulation can significantly reduce the load on your heating and cooling systems, leading to substantial savings.
19. Install motion sensor lights
Install motion-sensor lighting in areas with low foot traffic. This will eliminate the need to turn off lights when you leave the room. It will ensure lights are only active when needed, saving energy and prolonging the life of light bulbs.
20. Use energy-efficient computers
Laptops typically use less electricity than desktop computers. Keep this in mind during your next tech upgrade.
21. Educate your team
Equip your staff with knowledge on energy efficiency. For example, inform them that leaving computer monitors on in the office uses energy and costs money. An informed team can play a crucial role in achieving energy savings.
22. Go paperless
Switching to paperless billing and document management saves resources and significantly reduces energy consumption.
23. Buy green power
Purchasing green power from your utility company is an excellent way to reduce your carbon footprint and support renewable energy sources. Zembl’s Energy Experts can get your business on a competitive green power plan.
24. Upgrade HVAC systems
Newer HVAC models are more energy-efficient, leading to long-term savings.
25. Implement smart power management for PCs
Use power management settings to ensure computers enter standby mode when not in use, minimising energy wastage.
26. Go green with landscaping
Planting trees around your building can provide shade in the summer and act as a windbreak in the winter.
27. Install a tankless water heater
Tankless water heaters heat water on demand, eliminating the cost of keeping water hot when it's not needed.
28. Opt for virtual meetings
Cut travel costs and emissions by embracing virtual meetings. They're convenient, efficient, and environmentally friendly.
29. Choose energy star appliances
Energy Star-certified appliances are designed to be more energy-efficient than standard models and can save you hundreds if not thousands of dollars per year.
30. Use a laptop instead of a desktop
Laptops consume five times less electricity for businesses than desktops.
31. Remote monitoring
Monitor your energy usage remotely to identify trends and opportunities for further savings.
By implementing these energy saving tips, you'll not only see a notable reduction in your energy bills but also make a positive impact on the environment. Get started today and enjoy the benefits of a greener, more efficient business.
As always, Zembl’s Energy Experts are here to help. The first and most important step is to get in touch with us for a free business energy review. We’ll compare energy plans from our panel of top Australian energy retailers, and make sure you aren’t paying more than you should be. And if you are, we can switch you to the cheaper plan on the spot.
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