saving energy in the workplace

Unlike other prime business costs, managers can only determine the unit price paid of energy not the volume used. The volume of energy used is mainly determined by staff actions. The only way to manage this volume is to motivate staff to save energy.
Find your ‘Energy Champion’ and make them accountable for driving good behaviours.

During hot months, keep your window coverings closed on the south, east and west windows. In winter let the sun in and encourage staff to open the blinds in the morning rather than turning the lights on.

If chargers for devices such as mobiles and MP3 players were unplugged across the UK when not in use it would save enough electricity each year to power 115,000 homes. If a charger feels warm when it’s plugged in without being attached to a device, it is still converting energy.

Boil the kettle with water suffcient to make your cup of tea (making sure the elements are covered in electric kettles) and others you are serving only. Note the ‘minimum level’ on kettles usually makes 2 cups.

On average, a laptop uses 10% less energy than a standard PC.

An average compressed air system costs around £15,000 to run but many companines waste 30% of this by leaving the compressor on when not required.

For offices/factories with a TV for staff in the canteen etc. the easiest way to stop it being left on standby is to hide the remote control. Very few TVs can be put on standby without the remote. Just display a poster asking people to turn it off when they leave the room.

Try using a desk lamp or standard lamp where light is needed, so less overall light is required in the room.

A common myth amongst employees is that turning up the thermostat will warm a space more quickly. The room will heat up at the same speed whether the thermostat is set to 20 or 25 degrees, but will waste energy when the ideal temperature (19 degrees) is achieved.
Gaia Active works with businesses to drive down and [...]

With everyone refreshed from the spring break now is the best time for a clean-up. Why not include a green slant to this and tidy up your energy usage and reduce the energy your workplace is wasting.
Nominate any member of staff, perhaps your energy champion or it could form part of a Health and Safety [...]