To reduce your electricity bills, you first need to figure out where your energy is being wasted. You can’t manage what you don’t measure, right? Here are some easy steps any business can take to spot waste and lower their energy use for cheaper electricity bills.
The Carbon Trust recommends using an energy evaluation, monitoring, and goal-setting system (MM&T) for better power management in businesses. Here’s how it works:
1. Collect data, considering things like weather conditions.
2. Analyze the data to turn it into useful information.
3. Communicate this information to create actionable knowledge.
4. Take action to cut waste and improve energy efficiency.
Here’s a simple guide for applying MM&T in your business:
**Basic Metering**
Regularly check and compare your meter readings with previous months to track your energy use. Remember, weather affects consumption – colder months usually mean higher energy use. In manufacturing, compare energy use before and after producing one product. For offices, compare against staff numbers or floor space. If your business runs during typical office hours, take readings late Friday and early Monday to find any weekend waste.
**Advanced Metering**
There are many advanced meter systems that make these tasks easier. Half-hourly meters, for example, record readings every 30 minutes and help you understand complex patterns. Sub-meters focus on specific areas or processes, while plug-in meters between a socket and a device show the energy use of individual items, highlighting inefficient devices.
**Smart Metering**
Smart meters are expected to be installed in all homes and businesses within the next decade. They give real-time comparisons with live readings of energy use, making it easier to adjust consumption and take advantage of off-peak periods. The readings are sent automatically to suppliers for accuracy. British Gas Business is a major provider, with over 200,000 UK businesses using smart meters.
**Walk-around Surveys**
The Carbon Trust can help conduct walk-around surveys to spot waste and inefficient equipment in your business.
Keep in mind, if technology is crucial to your business, don’t compromise. Choose the best company to provide services like cloud computing and high-speed networks without disrupting your operations.