Companies today want to go green and save green. A Broker Online Exchange, our goal is to help your customers find the best source of electricity and gas, and then use as little of it as possible. Seems counter-intuitive? Well, that’s just good business – satisfied customers are repeat customers.
Here are some energy management tips that will help you and your customers save energy.
1. Invest in smart office machines. Did you know that office equipment directly consumes 7% of total commercial electric energy? That is the equivalent of $1.8 billion in electricity costs. One of the easiest ways to lower energy consumption is to switch to ENERGY STAR-labeled computers, which can use 30 to 65% less energy than computers without this label.
2. Use low-power mode. Set computers, copiers, and printers to enter sleep mode after a short period of time. This energy-saving mode typically uses at least 70 percent less energy than full-power mode. This change will also help your devices maintain cooler temperatures, which can improve their overall durability and lifespan.
3. Have a “lightbulb moment.” Many companies have already made the switch, but if you haven’t, look into new energy-efficient bulbs. Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) use one-quarter of the energy, and lasts 10 times longer than a comparable traditional incandescent bulb. Furthermore, light emitting diodes (LEDs) use 20 to 25 percent of the energy, and last up to 25 times longer than a traditional bulb. Even with the increased cost of replacing the bulbs, they will pay for themselves in lower energy bills and longer life. Don’t forget to turn them off when they’re not in use.
4. Beware the “vampire” — vampire energy, that is. Vampire energy is the electricity that office machines, PCs, chargers, and other appliances use when they are plugged in, even when they are turned off. Plug all electronic devices into a single power strip that you turn off at the end of each workday. This will keep them from sucking energy all night long.
5. Monitor your heat. Every office has that one person who is constantly turning up the heat, but that also turns up the electric bill. Invest in a programmable thermostat, or keep your device set at 68 degrees for a comfortable temperature. Encourage those who are too cold to bring a sweater.
6. Choose laptops. Laptop computers use up to 80 percent less energy than desktop models, which can result in dramatic energy savings.
7. Use a dishwasher. This is great news for offices everywhere. Hand washing dishes actually wastes both water – up to 5,000 gallons compared to an ENERGY STAR dishwasher – and uses twice as much energy.
By helping your customers consume less, you’ll provide the value-added service that keeps them satisfied. The more satisfied consumers are, the more likely they will be to stick with your business.
At Broker Online Exchange, we have the same goal. Learn more about the many services we offer to give you a competitive advantage. Need more tips to help grow your business? Contact Broker Online Exchange today.
