Conduct an Energy Audit

The first step to reducing energy consumption is understanding where you currently stand. An energy audit can help you identify areas where you are using the most energy and pinpoint opportunities for savings. You can conduct an energy audit yourself using online resources and tools, or contact energy professionals like us here at Next Business Energy who will be able to give you a comprehensive and detailed assessment of your energy consumption.

Switch to LED Lighting

One of the simplest changes you can make is switching to LED lighting. LED bulbs use up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last much longer. This means you’ll save on both energy costs and replacement bulbs. Additionally, consider installing motion sensors or timers in areas that are not frequently used, such as storage rooms or restrooms, to ensure lights are only on when needed.

Optimise Heating and Cooling Systems

Heating and cooling systems are significant energy consumers in any workplace. Regular maintenance is essential to keep these systems running efficiently. Simple tasks like cleaning or replacing filters can make a big difference. Consider installing programmable thermostats to automatically adjust temperatures based on your business hours. Setting your thermostat just one degree higher in summer and one degree lower in winter can lead to substantial energy savings.

Upgrade To Energy-Efficient Office Equipment

Office equipment like computers, printers, and copiers can be major users of energy. When it’s time to upgrade, look for energy-efficient models. These devices are designed to use less power without sacrificing performance. Ensure you enable energy-saving settings on all equipment, and encourage employees to turn off devices when not in use.

Improve Insulation and Natural Ventilation

Improving your building’s insulation can significantly reduce your dependence on heating and cooling appliances. Check for drafts around windows and doors and seal any gaps you find. Double-glazed windows can also provide better insulation. Take advantage of Australia’s sunny climate by using natural light and ventilation whenever possible. Open windows to let in fresh air instead of relying solely on air conditioning.

Encourage Sustainable Transportation

Transportation is another area where you can reduce your carbon footprint. Encourage employees to use public transport, carpool, bike, or walk to work. Consider offering incentives like subsidised public transport passes, bike racks, or shower facilities for cyclists. If your business requires a vehicle fleet, consider switching to electric or hybrid vehicles.

Consider Renewable Energy Sources

Investing in renewable energy sources like solar panels can provide long-term energy savings and reduce your dependence on the grid. Whilst the initial investment in solar power can be high, government incentives and rebates can help offset the cost. 

If you cannot install renewable power sources, you can always discuss renewable offsets or greener electricity options that your electricity retailer may have available. 

Foster a Green Culture

Creating a culture of sustainability within your workplace can amplify your efforts. Educate your employees about the importance of energy conservation and provide them with practical tips on how they can contribute. Simple actions like turning off lights when leaving a room, using energy-efficient appliances, and being mindful of heating and cooling can collectively make a significant impact. Regularly communicate your energy-saving goals and achievements to keep everyone motivated.

It’s a good idea to track your progress and celebrate your successes. Use energy monitoring tools to measure the impact of your changes and identify areas for further improvement. Share your achievements with your team and celebrate milestones to keep the momentum going. 

Track and Celebrate Your Progress to Becoming Greener

By implementing these easy and practical changes, your small business can significantly reduce its energy consumption and contribute to a greener future. Using these tips, you may be able to save on your energy bills and play a part in protecting our planet for future generations. So, start small, make steady changes, and watch the benefits unfold. Contact Next Business Energy today to see how we can help you and your business go greener.

The post Easy Ways to Go a Little Greener appeared first on Next Business Energy.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

The move towards energy-efficient lighting offers companies the ability to reduce energy consumption. For example, traditional incandescent bulbs are often inefficient, converting large portions of electricity into heat rather than light. 

On the other hand, energy-efficient substitutes like Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) and Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) can convert greater amounts of electricity into light, making them more energy-efficient. This directly benefits the company as lower energy consumption means a reduced electricity bill. 

Due to their extended lifespan, using energy-efficient bulbs lowers maintenance costs. Unlike incandescent bulbs, LEDs and CFLs have a longer operational life. These benefits also extend to having reduced hassle and labour time required when changing the light bulbs in the first place.

As the popularity of energy-efficient lighting grows, so does the technology. LED Smart-Lighting can automatically change brightness levels through pre-programming features, potentially reducing energy consumption, as full illuminations won’t always be necessary. These advancements add another cost-saving benefit, showing clients that your business is leading the way in technological changes. 

Long-Term Financial Benefits of Energy-Efficient Lighting

Making the change towards energy-efficient lighting also promises long-term financial stability. By making the switch, companies can protect themselves against ever-changing energy prices, and as these prices fluctuate, relying more on energy-efficient lighting offers insulation against these costs. 

Brand Image and Environmental Benefits 

The benefit of energy-efficient lighting aligns businesses with a broader sustainability message. By using less electricity, companies lower their carbon footprint while contributing to a greener future. 

As more customers and stakeholders choose businesses that attain this status, companies can take advantage of this to improve their brand image, and showing commitment to energy-efficient lighting does just that. 

Implementing these changes for businesses in retail and hospitality can play a vital role in shaping the customer’s experience. The correct lighting can create a warm, positive, inviting atmosphere that enriches the customer’s time. This ability to create varied lighting environments allows businesses to create a genuine, unique experience that improves customer satisfaction and increases customer loyalty. 

Improving Workplace Productivity

The benefits of energy-efficient lighting can offer businesses a multitude of positive changes in the workplace. Some of these include:

Health Benefits: Energy-efficient lighting has been shown to minimise eye strain or headaches and may reduce fatigue, meaning that companies can create a comfortable, productive work environment. Studies have shown that energy-efficient lighting can significantly improve mood, alertness and job performance. 

Technological Benefits: LED lighting can mimic natural light cycles, which improves sleep and overall well-being. By having complete control of your lighting, businesses can make precise adjustments based on occupancy, time of day, and specific tasks, creating the perfect environment to work in.

By investing in efficient lighting, businesses can have a greater impact on the work atmosphere, leading to higher employee productivity and satisfaction.

Regulations and Incentives

Many Governments have recognised the importance of energy sustainability and have started introducing regulations to help businesses move towards energy-efficient practices. Working towards these regulations allows businesses to avoid facing penalties while showcasing their brand beliefs and willingness to go green. 

There are various incentives available to encourage businesses to switch. These incentives include tax credits and rebates.

Brighten your Business’s Bottom Line.

The benefits of energy-efficient lighting are undeniable, with evidence showing that the positives far outweigh the negatives. By taking advantage of cost-saving initiatives and technologies, companies can enjoy improvements across the board, from energy independence to employee productivity.

Making the change allows businesses to project their ideals to customers and stakeholders, and by showing that they care about the environment and sustainable energies, they can put themselves at the forefront of their industries. 

At Next Business Energy, we champion the move towards a more sustainable and cost-effective future. Embrace energy efficiency, and watch your business thrive both financially and ethically.

Visit our website for more information on the impact of investing in energy-efficient lighting for your business. 

The post The Impact of Energy-Efficient Lighting on Your Businesses Bottom Line appeared first on Next Business Energy.

Here’s how ‘going green’ and reducing your carbon footprint can help your business save money.

Invest in Energy Efficiency

Switch to LED lighting: A quick but beneficial change can be made by switching to LED Lighting. Traditional incandescent bulbs take up to 80% more power than their energy-saving counterparts. On top of this, LED lights have a far greater lifespan. 

Make the most of natural lighting: Another way to reduce costs is to embrace natural lighting by positioning workstations near windows, thereby reducing the need for artificial lighting during daylight hours.

Be smart: Companies also enjoy the benefits of Smart Power Management. For example, using power-saving strips automatically cuts power to devices when they’re not in use, preventing energy waste while generating financial savings from idle electronics. 

Go Paperless

Studies show that businesses can waste up to 50% of all papers used. Therefore, utilising cloud storage and document management systems can drastically reduce the need for paper. By embracing digital communication such as emails, instant messaging, and collaborative platforms, companies can reduce the need to print altogether.  

Invest in Sustainable Office Supplies

Use recycled stationery: As businesses change towards a greener approach, so do the companies that supply them. By opting for recycled products such as paper, pens, and other office supplies, companies can reduce waste and save costs. Additionally, implementing a Reuse and Recycle Program can create a system for reusing supplies, like folders, binders, and envelopes. The same can be achieved with paper, plastic, and electronics.

Source locally: Sourcing these supplies via local and ethical suppliers means less packaging and reduced shipping. This will contribute to reduced emissions and energy usage. Purchasing from local suppliers may improve public relations by showing the eco-friendly ethics of your business. 

Invest in Energy Star-certified office supplies: When purchasing appliances such as printers and copiers, look for Energy Star-certified models. The more stars they have, the more energy efficient they are compared to other models. 

Green Cleaning Practices

Use biodegradable cleaning products: Reusability extends beyond office supplies. Switching to eco-friendly cleaners and utilising biodegradable, non-toxic cleaning products can reduce a company’s environmental impact. 

Save cost with reusable cleaning tools: Avoid using single-use items and instead opt for cost-saving reusable cleaning tools and supplies, such as microfiber cloths and mop heads.

Engage and Educate Employees

Environmental awareness: Many businesses are fostering an Environmental Awareness approach. Through education, employees are learning about the importance of sustainability and how their actions may contribute to a greener workplace.

Green Teams: Offices are also forming Green Teams, dedicated focus groups used to implement and maintain eco-friendly practices in the office. In the long run, this can develop a culture of sustainability and care. 

Work from home: Companies are also encouraged to advocate remote working. By allowing flexible work policies and giving employees opportunities to work from home, they can reduce carbon emissions from commuting. On top of this, many companies provide incentives to encourage employees to walk, bike, or use public transport to get to and from work. 

Help Your Office Go Green with the Right Business Energy Provider

By implementing these strategies, your business can reduce its environmental impact while cutting back on operational costs. It is vital to remember that making lots of small changes can add up, showing that achieving sustainability and financial success is more than just an idea.

Having a business energy provider that values environmental sustainability will help you achieve your energy efficiency goals. At Next Business Energy, we champion the move towards a more sustainable and cost-effective future. Embrace energy efficiency, and watch your business thrive both financially and ethically.

Visit our website for more information on how to help your business go green today. 

The post Going Green in the Office: How to reduce your carbon footprint and save money appeared first on Next Business Energy.

Understanding Energy Efficiency Ratings

Before delving into the world of energy-efficient equipment, it’s crucial to understand the energy efficiency ratings that come with them. These ratings, often found as labels on the product, indicate the product’s energy consumption.

These labels showcase how much energy the equipment uses in a given period. The less energy it consumes for its function, the higher its efficiency rating. Typically, equipment comes with a star rating system. The more stars, the better the efficiency. Additionally, the labels may provide estimated yearly energy consumption, allowing businesses to project potential savings over the equipment’s lifespan. 

Types of Energy-Efficient Equipment

Many energy-saving equipment are available, providing more opportunities to reduce your business’s energy consumption. Some of the common ones that you may be able to invest in for your business include:

LED Lighting: Consumes up to 80% less energy than traditional bulbs.

High-efficiency HVAC systems: Use advanced technology to provide the same amount of heating or cooling with less energy.

Smart thermostats: Allows for more precise temperature control, leading to better energy usage.

Energy Star-rated office equipment: Computers, printers, and other equipment that use less energy in standby and operational modes. 

Cost-Benefit Analysis

When choosing equipment for your business, it’s important to consider the initial investment compared to the long-term savings. 

While energy-efficient equipment often comes with a higher initial price tag, the savings they offer in the long run are significant. For instance, an energy-efficient light bulb might cost more upfront, but its longer lifespan and reduced energy consumption can result in savings several times its initial price over its life.

Beyond the monetary savings, this equipment often has a lower carbon footprint. By consuming less power, they reduce greenhouse gas emissions, making businesses more eco-friendly. This not only helps reduce the environmental impact but can also enhance a company’s reputation among eco-conscious customers and stakeholders. 

Choosing the Right Equipment for Your Business

Every business is unique, and so are its needs. Determine which equipment is used most frequently in your business operations. Prioritise these when considering replacements or upgrades.

Look for the Energy Star label as a starting point when choosing equipment for your business. Research and compare the estimated yearly energy consumption and potential savings. Consider seeking expert opinions or reviews on the best energy-efficient options for specific business needs.

Reduce Your Energy Consumption With the Right Equipment

Energy-efficient equipment offers vast potential for businesses to save money while also benefiting the environment. By understanding energy ratings, identifying the right appliances, and assessing both the costs and benefits, businesses can make informed decisions that lead to substantial long-term savings. 

At Next Business Energy, we champion the move towards a more sustainable and cost-effective future. Embrace energy efficiency, and watch your business thrive both financially and ethically.

Visit our website for more information on improving your business’s energy efficiency. 

The post Investing in Energy Efficient Equipment appeared first on Next Business Energy.

Next Business Energy and The Green Guys Group have joined forces under the banner of Next Green Group, offering an innovative approach to LED lighting upgrades so your business can significantly reduce energy usage and expenses through LED lighting upgrades while contributing to a greener future.

The Power of LED Lighting

When it comes to business lighting, the electricity bill can be a significant expense. Traditional lighting options, such as incandescent bulbs and fluorescent tubes, consume a substantial amount of energy, resulting in high electricity costs for businesses. However, there is a game-changer in the lighting industry – LED lighting.

LED lights are renowned for their exceptional energy efficiency. Compared to traditional lights, they require significantly less electricity to produce the same illumination level. By upgrading to LED lighting, businesses can experience substantial savings on their energy bills. LED lights can save businesses up to 75% on energy costs, which can greatly impact your bottom line. 

Whether you run a small retail store, a bustling office, or a large warehouse, lighting is essential to your operations. By investing in LED lighting upgrades, you not only enjoy superior illumination but also reap the financial benefits of reduced energy consumption.

LED lights are designed to be highly efficient, converting a higher percentage of energy into light and minimising wasteful heat generation. This efficiency not only translates into lower electricity bills but also contributes to the overall sustainability of your business. With LED lighting, you can enhance energy efficiency efforts, reduce your carbon footprint, and showcase your commitment to environmental responsibility.

LED lights have a significantly longer lifespan than traditional ones, which can translate to fewer replacements and reduced maintenance costs. Imagine the savings in labour, downtime, and replacement bulbs that your business can enjoy by switching to LED lighting. With their extended lifespan, LED lights are designed to shine bright for years, ensuring a reliable lighting solution for your business.

The Green Guys Group

At the forefront of this partnership is The Green Guys Group, a leading manufacturer and installer of Australian Standard LED lighting. Their specialisation in energy efficiency and renewable energy generation through Microgrid Power makes them the ideal partner for businesses looking to embrace sustainability. With over 10,000 successful LED lighting and solar solutions completed, The Green Guys Group has already saved valued customers over $70 million on their annual energy bills.

Next Business Energy has positioned itself as Australia’s first “green-focused energy-technology-retailer” through its strategic alignment with The Green Guys Group. Together, they aim to reduce customers’ energy bills by significantly reducing energy usage. By taking advantage of the expertise and technology offered by Next Business Energy and The Green Guys Group, businesses can make substantial strides towards achieving net-zero carbon emissions.

One of the standout advantages of partnering with The Green Guys Group is their status as an Accredited Certificate Provider. This means they can offer government rebates to help subsidise LED lighting upgrades for businesses. Taking advantage of government rebates and incentives can significantly reduce the upfront cost of LED lighting upgrades, enabling businesses to gain access to substantial subsidies and making the switch to LED lighting even more cost-effective and accessible for businesses of all sizes.

Tailored LED Solutions for Every Business

The Green Guys Group has extensive experience implementing LED lighting solutions tailored to various industries and businesses. Whether you operate in industrial and warehousing, strata and property groups, commercial and retail, education, health and aged care, or hospitality and leisure, The Green Guys Group can design and install optimal LED lighting solutions for your specific needs. Their expertise ensures your business enjoys the maximum benefits of energy savings and improved lighting quality.

Next Business Energy understands that each business has unique lighting requirements. With their team of experts and The Green Guys Group’s vast experience, Next Business Energy delivers tailored LED lighting solutions across various industries. Whether you operate in industrial and warehousing, commercial and retail, education, healthcare, or hospitality, their expertise ensures that your business receives a customised LED lighting solution that maximises energy savings, enhances lighting quality, and aligns with your specific needs.

Key Benefits of an LED Upgrade

The Cost-Saving Potential of LED Lighting

LED lights are remarkably energy-efficient, offering potential savings of up to 75% on energy costs compared to traditional lighting options. This translates to significant financial savings for your business. As LED lights have a longer lifespan, this means fewer replacements and reduced maintenance costs. 

Improve WH&S Environment

LED lights generate brighter, consistent luminescence at lower operating temperatures. This not only enhances workplace safety by reducing fire hazards but also creates a more comfortable and productive environment for your employees.

Reduce Carbon Emissions

By upgrading to LED lights, your business consumes less energy and produces fewer CO2 emissions. LED lights are also recyclable, contributing to a sustainable and circular economy.

Upgrade Your Business Lighting

Now is a great time for businesses to seize the benefits of LED lighting incentives and unlock substantial cost savings while championing sustainability. 

Next Business Energy and The Green Guys Group have teamed up to offer businesses in Australia a game-changing opportunity to upgrade their lighting systems. By embracing LED technology, businesses can achieve significant energy savings, reduce maintenance costs, improve workplace safety, and contribute to a greener environment.

Contact our sales team on 1300 208 966 to find out more about how LED lighting could save your business money.

The post LED lighting incentives for businesses appeared first on Next Business Energy.

At Next Business Energy, we’re committed to investing in renewable energy and doing our part towards sustainability. 

Get involved in Earth Hour

For businesses wanting to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability, Earth Hour is coming up on Saturday, 25th March, 2023. Organised by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), Earth Hour is a worldwide movement to help the planet

For one hour between 8.30 – 9.30 pm, people, communities and businesses are encouraged to turn off non-essential electric lights as a symbol of their commitment to the planet. 

As a business, we recognise the importance of reducing our carbon footprint and protecting our environment. This year, we’re turning off all non-essential lights and encouraging our team to do the same at home. We have also registered Next Business Energy as a participant in this year’s Earth Hour and will donate $100 for any Next Green Group staff member that registers and participates in Earth Hour. If you want to get involved you can register your business too. 

Working towards sustainability is important for all businesses, and if you want to learn more about GreenPower and our sustainability initiatives, visit our website or contact our team.

Our Go Greener philosophy

We have recently spoken about our commitment to making 2023 our ‘Go Greener’ year. We’re committed to reducing our carbon emissions and helping other Australian businesses do the same. 

For businesses looking to achieve net carbon zero, GreenPower is a great step towards reaching that goal. Buying GreenPower reduces greenhouse gas emissions from electricity use by matching your business’s electricity use with renewable electricity that’s been added into the grid on your behalf. GreenPower is a government-managed program that ensures individuals and businesses wishing to buy accredited renewable electricity can trust accredited GreenPower products are audited and no double counting or greenwashing can happen. The aim of the program is to support greater renewable energy generation in Australia. 

As a GreenPower Provider, Next Business Energy purchases large-scale generation certificates (LGCs) from accredited GreenPower renewables generators for the % of electricity usage you nominate when you select Next GreenPower. We charge you for Next GreenPower at your nominated %, and then we buy LGCs from GreenPower accredited renewable energy generators to offset carbon emissions, for the amount you nominate.  

There are numerous ways your business can purchase GreenPower. If you’re already a Next Business Energy customer, contact us to talk about selecting Next GreenPower for your electricity plan. You can also buy GreenPower from an independent provider, decoupled from your electricity agreement. Next Business Energy is also able to provide you with Decoupled GreenPower, if you are not a customer.

As well as supplying GreenPower to make it easier for businesses to reduce their carbon emissions, Next Business Energy have also embarked on our journey to improve sustainability with the introduction of employee initiatives that are designed to encourage our employees to go greener as well. 

Make your own commitment to sustainability

If your business is looking to create its own philosophy around sustainability and lowering carbon emissions, here are some things you can do. 

Energy efficiency

By reducing energy consumption, businesses can reduce their carbon footprint and save money on utility bills. This can be achieved through energy-efficient lighting, heating and cooling systems, and office equipment.

Reducing waste

Businesses can minimise waste by adopting sustainable practices such as reducing paper usage, recycling, and composting.

Community involvement

Businesses can support sustainability by partnering with local organisations and community groups on environmental initiatives.

Corporate social responsibility

By adopting a socially responsible approach, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

How Next Business Energy can help

Working towards sustainability is important for all businesses, and if you want to learn more about GreenPower and our sustainability initiatives, visit our website or contact our team.

The post Show your commitment to sustainability with Earth Hour 2023 appeared first on Next Business Energy.

Something that can provide numerous benefits to your business is making the switch to LED lighting. And if you’re considering investing in LEDs for your business, now’s a good time to learn more about LED lighting upgrades by the Green Guys Group.

Commercial LED lighting

While switching to LED lighting can involve an upfront investment, there are numerous short-term and long-term benefits of upgrading your business lighting to LEDs. 

Switching your bulbs for LEDs can help you save on your electricity bills as LEDs use over 75 percent less energy than incandescent lighting. This can provide significant savings over time. 

Upgrading to LEDs can help you reduce maintenance costs as they have a much longer lifespan and don’t need to be changed as regularly. LEDs don’t burn out like halogen or incandescent lights, which means that with normal usage (six to eight hours a day) LED bulbs can last for up to 15 years. This will save you money on your energy bills and the cost of replacement bulbs.

Switching your business’ lighting to LEDs may also improve your work health and safety (WHS) environment. LEDs don’t produce as much heat as regular light bulbs, which can minimise the potential fire hazard. 

You may not think too often about the impact of lighting on the environment, but using LED lights can also be a more environmentally friendly choice for businesses. LEDs produce less CO2 emissions and are also recyclable. 

Green Guys Group

If you’re looking for a way to save money on your business energy costs, then you need to know about the commercial LED lighting upgrade by the Green Guys Group. 

Next Business Energy have strategically aligned with The Green Guys Group through a newly formed parent company, Next Green Group. Now Next Business Energy customers have access to The Green Guys Group’s extensive range of energy efficiency products, such as LED lighting, heat pump water heating, and commercial solar solutions, just to name a few.

The Green Guys are the leading manufacturer and installer of Australian Standard LED lighting. As an Accredited Certificate Provider, The Green Guys are able to offer government rebates to help subsidise LED lighting upgrades for your office, retail, hospitality, commercial and industrial facilities. With experience in implementing tailored LED lighting solutions for various industries and business types including industrial and warehousing, strata and property groups, retail and commercial, education and health and aged care. 

If eligible, your business may be able to experience seamless lighting upgrades proven to reduce your business’ energy costs by up to 75 percent. 

Visit the website to learn more about the commercial LED lighting upgrade, and find out if your business may be eligible.

The post Upgrade to LED lighting for your business appeared first on Next Business Energy.

To avoid a holiday headache, reduce your energy use over the festive period to save on your electricity bills. 

Adjust energy usage

Many businesses may have fewer employees in the office during the holiday period. 

If this is the case for your business, it’s important to reduce energy usage to suit your changed occupancy. If you only have a small group of employees in the office during the holiday period, you don’t necessarily need to be using the same amount of energy. 

Businesses can benefit by shutting down all non-essential equipment. With fewer people in the office, you likely don’t need all computers, lights, kitchen appliances and printers turned on. 

A computer or monitor left on all day uses up a lot of energy, and if you have quite a few screens in your office, this can be extremely costly. Ensure employees switch off their personal equipment, such as computers, printers, and scanners, before leaving for the holidays. 

Keep cooling to a minimum if your office is at reduced capacity, and perhaps even consider simply using fans instead to keep employees cool, as fans use much less energy. Also if you have your heating and cooling, or even lighting, set to automatic timers, make sure these are not left on over the holidays when everyone has left. 

If you are closed over the holiday period, you may also want to consider whether you should turn off your refrigerator. If your business is only closed for a few days but your fridge is empty, fill it with water bottles or jugs, as an empty fridge uses up more energy (thermal mass keeps the fridge from having to work all the time). 

Use energy efficient lights

Adding fun lights to your business can bring cheer and festive vibes to the workplace, however they can also use up a lot of energy and add a significant amount to your bills. 

You can still enjoy lights and decorations in the workplace without sending your energy bills soaring, you’ll just need to be more considerate in your choices, and choose more energy efficient options. 

Switch to LED festive lights. These use less than half the amount of electricity compared to standard light globes. LED lights are also longer lasting, and don’t emit as much heat as regular bulbs, making them safer and more energy efficient. 

Limit the time the lights are on, and avoid having them on all day or overnight. Invest in timers to ensure they turn on and off at a set time each day. Also, don’t have all your office lights on at the same time. If you have festive lights on, maybe you can turn some other lights off to reduce energy use. 

Try not to go overboard when putting up festive lights and decorations in the workplace, and buy quality lights and decorations that you can use year after year, for further savings.

We hope you all have a safe and happy holiday season, and for more insights into how you can save your business money on energy, check out our recent blogs. 

The post Powering down over the festive season appeared first on Next Business Energy.

Here are some things to keep in mind to help reduce your energy bills during summer. 

The impact of temperature

Office spaces can become hot and stuffy in summer, which results in the air-con being turned on. Temperature can have a big impact on your energy bill, so it’s important to check the thermostat in your workplace and make sure it’s set at a comfortable temperature. 

Don’t set it too cold, as each degree you lower your air conditioning will impact your energy bill. The smaller the difference between the temperature outside and inside, the lower the energy costs from running your air-con and setting the air conditioning system at just one temperature lower, may reduce your energy costs by 10 percent. Set the temperature at a comfortable level, somewhere between 24 and 27 degrees is often best. 

Try to avoid pumping the air conditioning on high all day long, as while this may lower the temperature, it will also raise your energy bills. Be aware of the hottest periods of the day and only use your air conditioning system during those times. Use a timer so that your air-con turns on and off automatically to prevent it from running all day or being left on overnight. As well as limiting your usage to short periods, don’t bother using it to cool spaces not in use. 

It’s also recommended to get your air conditioning system serviced regularly to ensure it works at optimum efficiency. The filter can become clogged and dirty over time, which results in the system using more energy to run. You can clean the filter yourself throughout the year, but you may also want to get it properly serviced at least once or twice a year. 

Keep windows and external doors closed

When it’s hot outside, you want to keep the hot air outside, so make sure to keep all windows and external doors closed. 

Cool air escapes through open windows and external doors, with warm air coming in. This will result in wasted energy and a higher energy bill. You should also check the seals to make sure there are no leaks. Draught-proofing your building will reduce energy loss. 

When it cools down in the evenings, or a fresh breeze appears, open up the windows to help cool down your interior space and let fresh air circulate, just make sure to close up again when it gets hot. 

Use a fan

Fans are more affordable to run than air conditioning systems, using only a fraction of the amount of energy. 

While a fan doesn’t cool the air, it can create a wind chill effect that will help you stay comfortable during warmer days. They can help reduce your reliance on your air conditioning system and provide an alternative option. As with air conditioning systems however, don’t leave fans running in rooms not being occupied, as this just wastes energy. 

You can use a fan alongside your air conditioning, so you can use a low temp on the air conditioning, though try to cool a space with a fan before turning on the air-con. 

Embrace natural light

As the days grow longer, take advantage of the abundance of natural light. Invest in window treatments that will keep the heat out, while still allowing enough light to filter into your office space. 

Keep the lights off during the day, and use lamps, rather than overhead lights to light smaller spaces. 

Lights can add heat to a space, which causes you to spend more effort on cooling. Look for lighting options that operate at cooler temperatures, such as switching to more energy efficient light bulbs, which produce less heat and use less energy. 

For more energy saving tips, check out our blog on quick ways to reduce your energy usage.

The post Is your business summer ready? Energy saving tips for summer appeared first on Next Business Energy.

There are many simple and inexpensive ways to lower energy use within the workplace. Review your current energy practices and consider some of these energy saving strategies you can put in place in your own workplace. 

Computers and electrical equipment

All businesses rely on computers and technology to some capacity, and running electrical equipment adds considerably to your energy consumption and costs. 

To reduce these costs, start by choosing laptops over desktops where possible. Laptops typically use approximately 80 percent less energy than desktop computers, making them a more energy efficient option for your business. 

Monitor size contributes to energy consumption, with bigger screens using up more energy. While you may have some employees in roles which require a bigger screen, consider if some members of your team can work just as effectively from laptops. 

Most modern devices have an energy saving mode. Use energy saving features on all devices, and keep in mind that screensavers do not save energy. Ensure equipment is turned off when not in use or encourage employees to put computers in hibernation mode when stepping away from their desk, whether for a quick lunch break or a meeting, and to turn them off at the end of each day. 

Older equipment may not be very energy efficient, drawing unnecessary energy and costing you more. Upgrade all outdated equipment with more energy efficient devices. Look at energy star ratings to get the best efficiency you can afford, and keep in mind, the higher cost of purchasing more energy efficient equipment will eventually be recouped through energy savings in the long term. 

Lighting

Lighting can make up around 50 percent of your energy costs, but there are some simple ways to reduce your usage. 

Limit use of artificial lighting, especially during the day when there is plenty of natural light available. Switch off lights in meeting rooms, bathrooms, hallways, and kitchens when not occupied, and make sure all lights are turned off at the end of each working day. 

Consider investing in motion sensor lighting, so lights turn off when no one is in the room. This will help prevent them from accidentally being left on during the day or overnight. 

Where you need to keep the lights on, change over to energy efficient light bulbs that use less energy, such as LED or CFL lights. It can also help to remove excess lighting that is unnecessarily wasting energy. 

Heating and air conditioning

Control your heating and cooling to cut down on energy costs. Only use heating and cooling systems for limited periods of the day, and ensure systems are turned off at the end of the day, weekends, and holidays. 

Keep your workspace at a comfortable temperature without using excess energy, ideally 18 degrees during winter, and 25 degrees during summer. Installing timers and programmable thermostats can make it easier to maximise efficiency. 

Don’t waste energy heating or cooling spaces not being used all day, focus on areas your employees spend most of the day. Close external doors, and windows to reduce lost energy, and close blinds to keep in heat or cool air. You should also check for any energy leaks within the office where it may be being wasted. 

Regular servicing, and cleaning of filters, ducts and pipes, will help your heating and air conditioning systems work at optimum efficiency. Replace old systems with more energy efficient models. 

Promote sustainability in the workplace

Creating a culture that embraces sustainability in the workplace can improve your work culture and company reputation, as well as reduce energy costs. 

Share your sustainability goals with your employees and get them on board to contribute to energy saving practices. 

There are many practical ways to reduce energy consumption that your employees can help with that can make a big difference. Set daily reminders or place signs for employees to turn off electronic devices, computers, and lights when the workday ends. 

Creating a more energy efficient workplace provides numerous benefits, from improving your business’ sustainability to being a smart financial decision. 

For more information on saving energy in the workplace, check out our blog on whether it’s time for you to update your office appliances. 

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