When you’re trying to get a business off the ground, every cent helps. If you’ve managed to lease a space for your startup, you probably know all about how expensive lighting, heating and even computing power in commercial premises can be. As capital is tough to come by, being able to manage expenses is critical during a business launch.
Follow these quick tips to reduce your energy bills and boost your bottom line.
- Install a smart meter
UK-based utilities experts Utility Bidder says that the best way to start saving money on energy is to determine where your energy is being consumed. A smart meter can help you see how much energy you’re using on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. From there you can set yourself achievable targets for reducing your usage and monitor your progress in how you manage expenses.
- Switch to LEDs
If you haven’t made the switch from traditional light bulbs to light emitting diode (LED) bulbs, you’re missing out. These super efficient and increasingly inexpensive lights can bring your electricity consumption down by a huge 80 percent, helping you to shave money off your energy bills.
- Use energy-efficient office equipment
Before you buy computers, monitors, imaging equipment or other office electronics, check that they are ENERGYSTAR-rated. Products that have this rating have been independently certified to reduce energy use without compromising on functionality. ENERGYSTAR computers usually come with power management or sleep mode features. Using these features on one computer alone can help to manage expenses and save you an estimated $30 a year on your electricity bill.
- Promote sustainability
Make any employees you have aware of how they can reduce their impact on the environment and help the business to succeed. Putting up signs to gently remind people to switch off their PCs at the end of the day or turn off the lights when a room is not in use may be enough. You could also look to appoint an ‘energy champion’ to educate your workforce on eco-friendly working practices and help your business to become more sustainable.
When it comes to saving energy, every little step you take can help. Follow these additional tips to get started on your journey to becoming a green business and to keep those energy bills in check.
