New Year’s Resolutions to Reduce Energy Consumption

A new year brings new beginnings through commitments and promises to do things better or different. Although weight loss and working out are the top resolutions people make, we think these can also be applied to operating your business…perhaps you need to “trim down” your building’s energy use or “get it in shape” with new equipment. Here are a few New Year’s resolutions to make your business more environmentally friendly in 2014:

Energy Inspection
Why not buy your business a professional energy audit this year? Finding any drafts, insulation problems, loose fittings or leaking pipes can keep your energy usage low, along with your heating bill.

Upgrade Equipment

Although this may sound costly, installing energy efficient lighting will lower your energy bills and replacing a leaking water heater will save money in the long run by reduced maintenance costs.

Consider Your Energy Options
Considering your energy options will vary in complexity. Begin by looking at your energy provider and compare to others in the area; this may save you money. Also, if you have an electric water heater, consider switching to gas. Replacing an inefficient water heater with an efficient one can save a large amount of energy and money. Or consider a brand new type of energy, such as solar panels or a wind turbine.

Recycling Initiative
If your business does not already recycle paper, plastic, aluminum and electronic products, this is a no-brainer. Research local recycling centers and get your staff involved and enthusiastic about becoming a more energy efficient business.

Change Habits
If you are trying to improve the efficiency of your office, why not have a brainstorming session with your team and make a list of everything that uses energy and try to minimize its use. For example, shutting down computers every night instead of leaving on standby or hibernate can make a huge difference, particularly in a large office. Or, stop using disposable cups for water and coffee and instead, use a re-useable alternative.

It’s easy to come up with a New Year’s resolution, but the hard part is keeping the momentum going. The reward will be at the end of the year when you determine how much money you’ve saved in energy costs and maintenance repairs. You’ll be ready to tackle more energy efficient resolutions in 2015!