Top tips for keeping your energy bills and wastage tip top

It is a common misconception that saving energy automatically means you have to spend money on expensive equipment. This could not be further from the truth. Saving energy can save you pounds and benefit your environment. In fact you could save up to 10% of the energy you use by following some of the simple tips below:

Saving energy can save you money and here's how:

• Turn off equipment when it’s not in use - Astoundingly, a single computer and monitor left on 24 hours a day will cost over £50 a year. If you multiply that figure by the number of computers in an average office then there are real reductions to be made. This will save you money in the short term and also extend the lifespan of the equipment, a bonus however you look at it!

• Make it a collective effort -  Energy saving begins with individuals, talk to your colleagues/staff about ways they can help your business to save energy and your impact on the environment. Some ideas are to evaluate your recycling policies and look at the way your staff travels, is it always necessary to fly for example (or can you communicate just as effectively by telephone/email/video conference?  By working together you will make bigger changes.
• Apart from electricity used to power equipment, arguably the two biggest costs are heating and lighting your office space.  M&C Energy Group has over 30 years of experience in reducing these costs on behalf of clients and can help your business too!

Let there be light... (but only as much as you need)

• If there is nobody in a room, turn off the lights - did you know you can save as much as 15% of your lighting costs by simply switching off lights when nobody is using them?  You do not have to buy expensive sensor technology, simply make notices encouraging people to turn off the lights and position them close to the switches.

• Use only the lights you need to - In most office spaces, there are a number of light switches controlling different sections. If only one part of the space is being used, only light that one part. Be careful not to strain your eyes but be aware of using only the amount of light you need.
• Natural light is free - Making sure windows and skylights are clean to allow maximum daylight into the building.

Keep the temperature constant

• Use your temperature controls wisely - Heating and air conditioning can be expensive. In fact your energy costs can vary by as much as 8% each time you change the temperature by just one degree. Keeping your thermostat at a steady 19°C will control your costs.
• Keep your system well maintained - As much as 10% can be added to your bill if your equipment is not kept in a good condition.

Plan to save

• The layout of your office space can also make a real difference to how energy efficient it is.
• Do not obstruct radiators. Radiators will have to work harder and therefore use more energy if furniture is placed around them. Keep radiators unobstructed to keep your costs down.
• Keep your thermostat in good condition. Draughts, air vents and air conditioning near to your thermostat will automatically increase your heating costs.  
• Keep hot equipment, like photocopiers away from cooling vents. If an area is constantly being heated, the cooling system will need to work harder to keep it cool.  
• Remember that reducing the amount of energy used is a win/win situation - save energy, save money, save the environment.