You should never wait to reduce your overheads, if the global economic down turn hasn’t motivated you into investing into eco-friendly money saving devices what will? As energy prices continue to grow and with rises expected in the near future, gas and electric is an area any entrepreneur can nick back some precious pounds, euros or dollars.
The G8 summits should act as a constant reminder of how important eco factors are in business, as global agendas go environmental issues are definitely at the forefront of government’s manifestos. Many countries around the world are investing heavily into new technological developments that could help to slash businesses and consumers energy bills and reduce the size of your carbon footprint. Take a look at some of the best gadgets on the market, you might be surprised and go and buy one:
A-rated energy appliances
It’s not always possible to go out and purchase new appliances, but when the moment comes it’s important to look out for energy efficiency rated appliances. Energy efficiency ratings go from A to G and buying a fridge freezer, washing machine, dryer, dishwasher or other appliance that bears the highest rating will ensure that energy is used sparingly. Research has shown that if premise in the UK upgraded their washing machines and dishwashers to energy efficient ones, it would be estimated to save nearly £250 million a year and 1.3 million tonnes of CO2.
Radiator foil
If you have radiators around the office you can ensure energy doesn’t escape through the back of it by introducing foil into the back of your radiators. These nifty sheets are expected to save at least £8 a years per radiator, this is money that could be better spent on marketing or adverting or even a premium Linkedin membership. The foil is simply placed down the back and is very cheap to purchase!
Enviroplugs & Thermostats
Enviroplugs can be used to charge your mobile or laptops for free using the power of the sun’s rays. It is simple to use as you simply plug in your device into your charger and it will automatically let you know when your battery is full. If your energy provider hasn’t provided you with a programmable room thermostat you need to get on to them, this will enable you to control the temperature in your office, this will allow you to keep energy down to minimum.
PVC Solar panels
Most commercial buildings are ideal for solar PV: with large roofs, 3 phase electricity supplies and daytime usage of electricity, commercial buildings give their owners and occupiers an unbeatable opportunity to benefit from solar PV. For owner occupiers the benefits are compelling, but even on leased buildings it is easy to install systems that will benefit both landlord and occupier. Ardenham Energy can give advice on how this is best achieved.
Thermal leak detector
Research has found that the average premise can attribute 20% of its energy loss to draughts. This can be combated simply by introducing a temperature tolerances detector. The thermal device will show red spots for warmer areas and blue spots for colder areas, it’s advised to do this every three months as the seasons change, this will enable you with the information you need to look at blocking or insulating high areas of draughts.
Energy saving light bulbs
When it comes down to it, energy saving light bulbs can save your business at least £45 pound a year on electricity bills. The bulbs can be bought in local stores and replace the standard light bulbs within seconds. These light bulbs can be found for under a pound or even free through promotional offers.
I hope the above devices have given you food for thought, being a business eco warrior doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. A modern approach to energy saving for some businesses have been asking staff to come in later and work later in winter and work earlier and leave earlier in summer. This helps businesses save on energy as it can be warmer and cooler at different times of the day, allowing less energy consumption in your business.