ENVIRONMENTAL CODE OF PRACTICE
Energy Efficiency
Overview
The burning of fossil fuels produces most of the energy consumed
today. The combustion of such fuel leads to the production of
atmospheric gases, some of which may contribute to acid deposition
and global climate change. Increasing energy efficiency is one of
the most cost-effective methods to reduce the emissions of these
pollutants and help to conserve finite fossil fuel resources.
Energy is the largest controllable outgoing in the operation of any
office facility. It is estimated that the use of simple energy
efficiency measures can reduce fuel bills by approximately 20%. It
is important to remember that significant cost savings can be made
in all office and administrative facilities regardless of their
size or layout. In small companies, for example, the installation
of energy efficient light bulbs in the office workspace will make a
noticeable difference to the electricity bill. Switching off unused
appliances makes a big difference too. All this sounds common sense
but often changes in the business culture are needed.
Energy records
To begin managing energy consumption, the first step is to
quantify the amount of energy you consume and find out where that
energy is used. Check your energy bills and keep records of energy
consumption patterns, which change on a seasonal and daily basis to
help you to monitor your energy requirements and identify where
savings can be made. This can benefit every type and size of
company and can be more easily achieved in the small company. It
will also help you to investigate any sudden changes in energy
patterns. In a competitive energy supply market, it may be
worthwhile investigating energy supply deals offered by a selection
of utilities companies to identify potential cost savings.
Switching to a Green Energy Tariff is not only good for the
Environment but is usually cost neutral as there is an exemption to
the climate change levy.
Energy consumption
The amount of energy consumed in an office will be very much
dependent on the design of the office, its size and the facilities
which it houses. If your company ever relocates, one of the
criteria you should look for in new premises is whether or not the
building is designed to minimise energy consumption. Remember
that having an energy efficient office can lead to
significant cost savings.
The links below describes how your organisation can
maximise energy efficiency in your office(s) by
implementing No, Low and Higher cost techniques, which bring
longer term benefits. If you are located on a site which sub-lets
units to tenants you will also need their commitment to an energy
conservation policy. Make tenants aware that increasing efficiency
could lead to lower service charges. Lower charges should also help
in the future letting of the units.
Carbon Footprinting
The Carbon Trust have developed an
online calculator to help your organisation calculate its
carbon footprint. The basic footprint indicator provides
a rough estimate of your organisation's carbon emissions based on
your company's energy bill and sector.