4 Ways Your Business Can Cut Back On Energy Costs
These days, businesses of all sizes are looking for ways to reduce their energy costs--especially as gas and electricity rates continue to rise. However, cutting back on energy use is often easier said than done. Fortunately, there are a few steps all business owners can take to reduce energy use and thus lower monthly costs in the process.
Schedule an Internal Energy Audit
The first logical step is to schedule an internal energy audit with a professional energy auditing service. These professionals will come out to your place of business, analyze your energy use, and come up with a detailed plan for cutting back on costs based on your company's specific needs. You will need to spend some money on an energy audit, but it's money that will be worthwhile when you're able to significantly reduce costs down the road.
Make the Switch to LED Bulbs
One of the easiest and most effective ways to save on energy and cut back on your electricity bills at your place of business is to gradually make the switch from incandescent or CFL bulbs to LED bulbs. Depending on the size of your business and the number of lights that need to be replaced, this can require a large initial investment. However, the LED bulbs not only use significantly less energy, but they also last several times longer than traditional bulbs.
Invest in Energy Efficient Devices
When it comes time to replace devices within your place of business, take care to look into buying energy efficient devices (such as those marked with the Energy Star label). These are certified to use less energy and may even make your business eligible for money-saving tax breaks. These devices may cost a bit more than your typical ones, but they'll pay off in energy savings down the road.
Train Employees in Energy-Efficient Practices
Your employees can also play a vital role in reducing your company's energy use. Take the time to meet with employees and establish energy-efficient guidelines, such as shutting off lights when leaving the office or break room, and keeping the thermostat set within a certain temperature range. If everybody makes even a small effort at using less energy in your place of business, you can make a huge difference as a whole.
Reducing energy costs as a business owner can be challenging, but by following these tips, you'll be cutting back in no time.