As energy costs continue to rise, it’s more important than ever to find ways for your business to save energy and reduce costs
In this article, we explore the best ways your factory or manufacturing plant can cut down its energy bill. They ranges from quick fixes, such as turning off lights when not in use, to long-term solutions like investing in energy-efficient equipment
As well as saving your company money, these ideas will help reduce your industry’s carbon footprint. By implementing these energy conservation tips, you’ll do your part to protect the environment while improving your financial bottom line
Commission an energy audit
To better understand your energy consumption, get an energy audit from a qualified energy auditing company. A typical audit has three parts: evaluation, testing, and efficiency recommendations. This comprehensive analysis will help you identify the areas where you’re using the most energy and suggest ways you can make improvements
Turn off lights when not in use
Turning off lighting is a straightforward way to save energy, but it can be easily overlooked. Install motion sensor lighting in areas that are not continuously occupied, along with turning off lighting in areas which aren’t occupied
Replace existing lighting with LED lights
Replacing existing incandescent and fluorescent bulbs with LED lights is an excellent way to save energy. LED lights use up to 75% less energy and can last up to 25 times longer than traditional incandescent lighting
Use nature to your advantage
During hot weather, open windows or doors and create natural ventilation to reduce air conditioning expenses. Natural lighting is another excellent option to conserve energy and money, so ensure that windows and skylights aren’t obstructed
Upgrade or replace heaters and air conditioners
Heating and air conditioning systems consume a lot of energy, especially if it has been a while since they were last replaced. If your heating and cooling systems are old, consider upgrading them to new, more efficient models. Avoid using blow heaters and portable radiators as these appliances consume a significant amount of electricity
Invest in a smart thermostat
A smart thermostat is an excellent way to regulate the temperature. They give you the power to adjust the temperature from your mobile phone and allow for more in-depth temperature management. You will also be able to access reports showing kilowatt hour (kWh) usage, which you can use to find other opportunities to save energy
Upgrade factory machinery
One of your largest sources of energy usage is probably machinery, such as your generator, controls, your converter line, and of course your heat exchangers. At Sterling TT, we supply high-performance heat exchangers. We will work closely with you to design bespoke heat exchangers tailored to your needs. Contact us today to discuss your heat exchanger needs further
Control the temperature
Reducing the temperature by 1 degree can make a huge difference. Program your thermostat to turn off when areas are unoccupied, such as at weekends and non-working hours. Also, lock the thermostat so that multiple people can’t change it
Install insulation
Insulation is an excellent energy-saving tool that acts as a barrier against temperature changes. Installing insulation in the roof, walls, and flooring has the most significant impact when saving energy, as you are less likely to need the air conditioning on or the temperature as high
Reduce delay on closing doors
If you have automatic doors, they will be set up with a predetermined time delay to avoid losing heat or cold air when they open. When possible and practical, you should reduce the time delay to save energy
Schedule equipment maintenance
Keep up to date with maintenance on equipment and machinery to optimise its performance and lifespan, which will translate to energy efficiency savings. For example, if dirt begins to build up this will cause the system to overwork which will waste more energy and cost you more money
Turn off equipment when not in use
Ensure that any machinery or equipment that is not in use is switched off. If you can’t turn some of your computers or laptops off, turn the hibernation feature on, as this allows you to save your work as it is and continue the following day
Switch to renewable energy
Renewable energy is the future, with many companies turning to renewable energy to save energy and money. Renewable energy sources such as wind or solar power emit little to no greenhouse gases and can save you a lot of money while looking after the environment. In some cases, if you generate more energy than you use, it can be sold back to the national grid
Collaborate
For an energy-saving plan to be effective, it should involve all employees collaboratively. To encourage behavioural changes, it’s crucial to communicate the actual business costs and demonstrate how they impact the bottom line. Raising awareness of energy conservation during meetings or monthly company gatherings helps keep it in mind
Empowering employees and making them feel involved makes them more likely to take ownership of the initiative and do their part to contribute