This is part of a continuing series on simple, inexpensive energy saving tips to do now that will produce real energy cost savings and greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions. Suggestions that will not “put out” your staff, and make you look like a hero.

Electronics

Part 1 discussed the very simple concept of personal computers. Either make sure they are turned off when not in use (nights, weekends) or invest in a system that will automatically keep them in sleep mode. This leads to the broader point that there are improved technologies in many electronic areas (mainly in keeping equipment in “sleep” mode to be “revived” in a matter of seconds) that can reduce energy usage and costs.

McKinsey & Company developed and updated a graph showing the most cost effective GHG emission reduction strategies – which ones will bring the highest dollar return over its lifetime. The latest published version, Exhibit 7 of “Energy Efficiency: A Compelling Global Resource” (downloadable from its website) shows that the most cost effective strategy is replacing electronics with less energy intensive models. An easy reference is available: the Energy Star program labels equipment that generally exhibit electricity savings of at least 10% compared to standard brands often as high as about 40%). The cost of such equipment is often only slightly higher than non-Energy Star models. Thus, not only is the ROI usually less than one year from reduced electric bills, but given product lifetime, savings can be enormous. Energy Star recommends a wide range of equipment found in an office or elsewhere, such as PCs, refrigerators, printers, etc.

Perhaps what is easiest about this energy tip is that it does not have to be done by you, the EHS or Sustainability professional, but by another group: Purchasing. Inform them of this and request a policy to consider the Energy Star label for all future purchases. Then your company will lock into real energy cost savings without a big effort.

Additional Tip – for you!

Exhibit 4 of the same McKinsey document contains a graph listing equipment and their average cost per end-use energy savings: which equipment will give you the biggest energy savings for the initial outlay. The best are two items you use at home: your water heater and your freezer. So take extra care to purchase Energy Star equipment, to maintain them, and insulate piping well to get your best home energy savings!

CCES has experience in performing site-specific energy audits and recommend proven strategies and technologies used by others to reduce your facility’s energy usage, saving you money with a good ROI and without inconveniencing your staff.