Business energy efficiency can be a struggle through the winter months, with cold snaps and environmental conditions causing measurable increases in energy usage. Here are some tips on how to save energy in commercial and industrial operations, from voltage optimization and energy audit specialists.
#1 Have a Professional Energy Audit
It’s challenging and inefficient to implement an energy saving project when you don’t know how much energy you are wasting and where that wastage lies. An energy audit will show exactly how your facility performs, as well as where the most meaningful potential improvements lie. This helps with buy-in, making your project more ROI-driven and cost-effective.
#2 Optimise Heating Systems
Heating takes up a big portion of commercial and industrial energy bills in the winter, so it’s a good place to start when looking for savings. Heating systems and buildings should be properly insulated and weatherproofed (this will help regulate cooling costs in summer too), glazing should be improved and a high-efficiency heating system installed if yours is beyond its lifespan. In Australia, each state has rebate and incentive programs to make implementing these types of improvements more affordable.
#3 Improve Your Lighting
Lighting is another big energy user in commercial and industrial facilities, and the cost creeps up in winter with darker mornings and less light in the afternoon. Sufficient lighting is essential for workplace safety and productivity, so consider installing LED lighting with zoned and timer capabilities rather than switching lights off. LED lighting technology is ideal for all commercial and industrial applications, from warehouse and office lighting to security lighting. It not only uses considerably less energy to run, it also provides better quality light (many buildings can reduce the number of light fixtures) and offers a longer lifespan to lower maintenance costs.
#4 Invest in Voltage Optimisation
Voltage optimization offers year-round benefits, not just in the winter months. With the increasing digitization of many industrial and commercial facilities, voltage optimization has become a key issue in the prevention of tripping and the protection of sensitive electronic equipment. Effective voltage optimization ensures a steady, clean flow of energy to your facility, free of harmonics, surges and dips that are a regular occurrence on the grid – and are especially apparent when cold snaps cause a surge in demand. This lowers maintenance costs, energy usage and downtime risks, preserving productivity while supporting business energy efficiency.
Meet Business Energy Efficiency Goals this Winter
Quality Energy is a leading provider of power quality solutions and support to commercial and industrial facilities in all industries across Australia, including schools, office buildings, manufacturing facilities, airports, shopping centres and more. Contact us today for a comprehensive energy audit and an affordable, ROI-driven custom solution that supports your business energy efficiency goals.
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