Using lots of energy during the hottest period of the day puts a real strain on our local grid. But local businesses of all sizes and types can help us conserve energy in the summer.
By reducing energy use between 2-8 p.m. during the summer, businesses, schools, healthcare facilities, nonprofit organizations and government agencies can help keep our service reliable and affordable. Plus, it helps us make the most of our renewable energy resources.
While energy needs vary dramatically across businesses – from small pastry shops to major manufacturers – everyone can do their part to try to keep their own bills down, as well as TEP’s costs to provide power
Here are some strategies that your workplace can consider to shift energy use:
Take control of your thermostat: As long as your patrons and employees can stay comfortable, adjust your thermostat during peak times. Overnight, don’t turn off your air conditioner to save money. You’re likely to use even more energy to cool the building upon your return – and you’ll come back to a warm building. Instead, turn your thermostat up 3-8 degrees in the summer during off hours, depending on the size and configuration.
Get smart settings: Medium and large-sized businesses often install energy management systems to monitor and control their electricity use. Also, a smart thermostat can help you plan with “auto away” settings and remote controls.
Sense your use: Install sensors for lights in rooms or areas that aren’t always in use, such as conference rooms or break areas.
Check the time: If you can avoid it, don’t use large appliances and equipment simultaneously during on peak hours. Making copies? Turn on the printers in the morning or midday. Use smart strips to power down computers or other equipment when they aren’t in use.
Stay cool: Turn on ceiling and floor fans to stay comfortable. But remember to turn them off when you leave the room since circulating air cools people, not rooms. Install or use window shades in west and south facing windows to block sunrays.
Change the bulbs: Switching to LED lighting saves money and reduces the burden on your HVAC system, since these energy-efficient bulbs generate less heat than traditional incandescent lights.
Check more ways to Beat the Peak at home and at work this summer.
Learn more about rebates on lighting and other energy-efficient products.
