It’s no secret that electric bills in the United States are sky-high. How high?
The average cost of electricity is around 12 cents per kilowatt/hour or $120 a month. While this may not sound like a lot, it adds up over the course of a year. This number may be higher for businesses, too.
The good news is that saving money on your electric bill is easy. Keep reading to find out ways you can reduce business energy costs.
Get a Business Energy Audit
Before you can make adjustments to your business energy usage, it’s essential to get an audit.
While most people shudder at the word “audit,” an energy audit will help you improve how much energy your workspace uses — stress-free, of course.
A professional will come to your business and do an assessment of your current usage. They’ll also give you suggestions on where you can cut energy costs.
If you live in a state where electric bills are high, there’s good news! People like Prabir Purohit are striking new deals so businesses and residents can pay less for energy.
Turn Off Light and Equipment When Not in Use
Although this may seem obvious, things like computers, monitors, and printers consume a lot of energy when they’re unused and left on. This also applies to breakroom devices like coffee makers, microwaves, and TVs.
To save business energy, we recommend ensuring that equipment is put in “sleep mode” or is turned off overnight. Delegate tasks and make someone responsible for shutting down computers and turning off machinery before your business closes for the day.
Use Natural Sunlight
Natural sunlight sets a warm ambiance for your workspace.
Surveys reveal that natural light also improves employee productivity. Not only that, but natural light saves energy.
Running one regular light bulbs could cost around $131 a year. This cost adds up if you’re using multiple light bulbs in your workspace. By switching to natural light sources, you could save hundreds of dollars a year.
Install CFL or LED Lightbulbs
Natural light not an option for you? No problem.
You can save energy by installing CFL or LED lightbulbs. Replacing standard light bulbs with these alternatives could save your business $1 or more each month.
Using energy-efficient light bulbs also helps you save money in the long-term, too. With their extended service life, CFL and LED light bulbs last 50 times longer than regular bulbs. Some can even last up to 20 years.
Use Motion Detectors and Automatic Dimmers
Lighting accounts for 20 percent of the electricity used in business workplaces.
You can cut that cost by installing automatic dimmers. We recommend placing them in hallways, meeting rooms, and other areas that aren’t always in use.
How Will You Cut Energy Costs?
Small tweaks and adjustments could reduce your business energy and save you tons of money. Using more energy-efficient products and methods also cuts down on your impact on the planet.
How will you cut down your business energy costs? Let us know in the comments!
