Why be smarter with energy use
Being smarter with your business’ energy use can save money, strengthen your business, and reduce emissions at the same time. Positive impacts can include:
- Save costs and gain efficiencies. Use your electricity and fuel better. Get more out of what you’re already spending.
- Stand out from the competition. Consumers often seek out sustainable brands. Prioritising the big picture can set you apart from competitors.
- Improve access to finance and supply chains. Financial institutions and corporate clients often prioritise environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance. This can be a requirement for some investment or tender opportunities.
- Attract the best talent. Employees are drawn to companies with strong ethical principles.
Move products efficiently
How you bring supplies in and send goods out is a great place to start reducing costs and emissions. Be targeted and start small to create practical efficiencies. You could:
- reduce your fuel use and delivery costs
- improve how your vehicles are used and transition towards electric vehicles
- work with suppliers to reduce emissions and improve operations.
Move your team efficiently
Transport is a daily cost for your business and your team. Small changes can add up to big savings on fuel use, vehicle maintenance and parking costs, as well as lowering emissions. Active travel also supports your team to be healthier and more productive. You can:
- support your staff to commute by walking, cycling, or using public transport
- check your company vehicles are right for your business
- use your vehicles efficiently and consider switching to electric for long-term savings
- reduce how much you fly for business.
Make your space energy efficient
Using less energy in the first place is one of the easiest ways to cut business costs and reduce emissions. Just like in your own home start with the small things, like fixing draughts or upgrading lightbulbs. Then scale up depending on your space.
To get started:
- understand how your workplace uses energy to help find savings
- improve heating and cooling so you stay comfortable without using extra energy
- review lighting to increase productivity and comfort, one of the quickest energy wins
- monitor specialised equipment, like commercial refrigeration and process heat systems.
Take a strategic approach to reducing emissions
Reducing emissions can help your business cut costs, use resources more efficiently, and prepare for the future. Level up your thinking and embed efficiencies business by:
- measuring your carbon footprint to understand where your emissions and costs come from.
- improving products, services and processes to reduce waste and operational costs.
- exploring funding options to help invest in more efficient equipment, systems, or ways of working.