[October 2006]
More than 37% of the electricity consumed in commercial and institutional facilities is used for lighting, according to a 2003 study conducted by the Ontario Ministry of Energy. In fact, lighting energy use increased by 33% from 1990-2003, while the total floor area for the sector increased by only 24.9% during the same period.
With the even higher cost of electricity today, the bottom-line impact of an increase of this kind is a significant business issue – and one you can do something about:
- If your business has storage or other areas that are used infrequently, installing motion-sensor lighting fixtures can save as much as 30 per cent or more on associated energy costs, depending on frequency of use. By turning lights on and off only when someone enters or leaves a room, they save both electricity and money.
- Aluminum reflectors on fluorescent light fixtures can increase light intensity and can allow for lower wattage and/or fewer bulbs.
- Replacing older T12 technology lights with newer T8 and T5 lights can reduce operating costs by 25% because they operate using an electronic ballast.
- Replacing traditional EXIT signs with newer LED signs means lowering energy use from up to 30 watts to as little as 2 watts. An added bonus: LED bulbs can last 50 years without needing replacement!
- Lighting isn’t the only culprit when it comes to energy consumption, so turn off equipment when it is not in use. Computers, monitors, photocopiers and appliances all consume more energy if you leave them running instead of turning them on and off as required.
- When purchasing computers, choose energy efficient systems and monitors. Though flat-panel monitors are increasingly popular, the most energy efficient ones are liquid crystal display (LCD) monitors that can use as much as 80 to 90 per cent less energy. Always look for electronic products designated as Energy Star® - these can save up to 75 % of the energy typically consumed by their counterparts.
- Where feasible, shift electricity consumption from high demand periods such as mid-afternoon and evening to lower demand periods, when electricity prices tend to be lower. Many large electricity customers already have 'smart meters' to track electricity use and they are charged the actual price at the time of consumption. In time, all electricity customers will have smart meters and time-differentiated rates, which will provide incentive for consumers to shift consumption to periods of lower demand and prices.
As much as these initiatives seem small in comparison to overall electricity use for heating, ventilation and air conditioning, industrial equipment operation etc., don’t under estimate their cost-saving potential.
Being energy conscious makes good business sense. Take advantage of every opportunity to improve energy efficiency in your facilities, engage employees in energy awareness programs and learn about the special incentives offered by many local electrical utilities to help reduce hydro costs.
Not sure where to begin? We can help! Contact Dial One Wolfedale Electric to participate in our new Power Watch Program - let us give you the power to reduce electrical energy consumption and costs for your business! |
