All businesses need energy to function, and there’s nothing you can do to escape this. What you can do, however, is take proactive steps to reduce your costs. The issue is that many business owners tend to be stuck in their ways and think that they’re either already doing everything they can, or that whatever they do will only make a minor difference. But, no matter what you’re doing, chances are you are still massively overpaying on your energy bills. Here are a few reasons why.
You Have Never Had an Energy Audit Performed
If you don’t know whether you’re doing something wrong, then there’s no way to fix it. This is why it’s essential that you have regular audits performed to make sure that you aren’t leaking energy. An energy audit could allow you to review your processes, and find ways to both reduce losses and recuperate some of the energy you’re using. An auditor will also be able to give you recommendations.
You Are Too Loyal to Your Energy Provider
With all the different energy providers in the country, there is absolutely no reason to stay with one single provider. Not only that, but if you’re coming as an individual customer, chances are you aren’t getting the best rate.
The best thing you can do is get better business energy prices through a comparison site like Utility Bidder. Sites like these will allow you to get quotes from multiple suppliers at once by using a simple online form. They will usually have access to much better rates, and some will even guarantee that they’ll be able to get you a better price than your current provider. So, if you’ve been with the same provider since day one, know that they aren’t doing you any favours and that you should take advantage of all the other options available.
You’re Not Monitoring Peak Demand
Some energy companies will charge you more during peak hours, which is usually around 9am to 8pm. If that’s the case for you, you need to have a policy in place to limit your consumption during those times, or else you will be wasting money. Some of the things you could do include trying to use heavy equipment in the morning or later in the evening. You could also stagger start times and work hours.
You Are Not Utilising Automation
Automation could be your best friend if you’re trying to reduce consumption. Smart lighting systems can be used to only illuminate corridors when people walk through them. Doing something as simple as investing in programmable thermostats will allow you to save money when people leave the office and start heating right before people come in the morning. These small changes will eventually add up and make a big difference on your bottom line.
These are just some of the possible reasons why your business might be losing energy. So, if you think you might be committing some of these mistakes in your business, now is the time to make some changes and start reaping the benefits.