Energy Saving Tips for Companies

LEED

• When planning the construction of a new facility, choose to make your building LEED certified. LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. "LEED certification provides independent, third party verification that a building project is environmentally responsible, profitable and a healthy place to live and work," states the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). LEED certification incorporates a rating system based on how much energy a company saves when in full operation.

Power

• Turn off lights and large equipment after hours. This can save exorbitant amounts of money on your power bill each month. Ask the last person in the office each day to be responsible for turning off the power. If your building or office employs an after-hours cleaning crew, you can request that they turn off all lights before leaving your office.

Programmable Thermostat

• It is tempting to keep the office at a controlled temperature at all times. However, using a programmable thermostat helps ensure the heating and air system is not running when no one is in the office. In the mornings, the office may be at an uncomfortable temperature temporarily, but you will save a considerable amount of energy by programming the thermostat to turn on at the start of your workday.

Entrances

• Keep doors and windows closed during the winter months. Heat escapes through these entrances, forcing cold-natured employees to adjust the thermostat to a warmer temperature. Have your property manager check insulation or piping around the doors and windows if you feel cool drafts near the entrances of your office space.