Energy Efficiency Upgrade Tips for Small & Medium Commercial Buildings

Energy Efficiency Upgrade Tips for Small & Medium Commercial Buildings

Is your company doing enough to make better energy choices and save on business electricity costs? A few simple changes could improve your bottom line substantially. The EPA states in its data from the ENERGY STAR® program that an average commercial building can reduce its energy bills by 30% through no-cost actions, smart investing, and innovative operations and maintenance.

What will you do with those savings? Whether you reinvest in research and development or keep product prices down for your customers, every business can benefit from energy savings. Here are some ideas to put to work to lower your energy costs and reduce your carbon footprint.

Benefits of Saving Energy and How to Get Started

Energy savings has more than just an intrinsic value, such as helping the planet. It can reduce costs, help your brand image, and lead to leaner overall operations and improved building value. Some of the most energy-efficient tips, such as the use of clean energy for business, also make the most financial sense.

Perform a detailed energy audit on each building to identify energy-saving measures that can be implemented. You’ll want to include detailed calculations for each measure, identifying three things:

1. Annual energy savings
2. Cost to implement
3. Cost recovery payback period

The new baseline energy use can be compared to the initial baseline to gauge results. You also need to know and account for any operational changes that happened in the facility or on that particular circuit during this period. Consultants can help get you started

Man Measuring HVAC Output

It’s possible for commercial entities to significantly move the needle on energy use. Still, it may be difficult to get the initial budget for the energy baseline measurement and energy audit. This is often conducted by a consultant trained in these measurements since most businesses do not have an in-house team that can handle this process. The Cotocon Group has extensive experience in consulting organizations for Energy savings.

Energy-Saving Tips for Small Businesses

There are dozens of ways to save electricity, some with an immediate effect. Here are some of the more common ways companies are changing their energy usage.

1. HVAC Adjustments

HVAC systems account for sizable shares of power usage in commercial spaces. Targeted tweaks and updates can yield considerable savings without compromising comfort levels:

• Perform recommissioning and maintenance checks to ensure HVAC and air handler systems function at peak efficiency. 
• Routine examinations help pinpoint inefficiencies like clogged filters or leaks, which can drain substantial energy. 
• Variable speed fans and pumps driven by variable frequency drives allow for airflow and circulation to dynamically match fluctuating needs, preserving energy throughout off-peak hours. 
• Optimize variable air volume systems with reheating by tuning supply air temperature and duct static pressure for efficient operation under changing conditions. 
• Also, widening the automatic heating and cooling temperature range can reduce unnecessary HVAC cycling during mild weather, saving power when thermal demands are modest. 
• Reset supply air settings to properly align air handler output with present usage requirements, avoiding over-conditioning of interior environments.

2. Shake Up Your Schedules

Timing is everything when it comes to energy use. Simple schedule adjustments can lead to noticeable savings:

• Lighting Schedules: Align lighting systems with operational times and minimize consumption during off hours. Options such as motion sensors and timers can also save even more energy by turning off lights in empty rooms.
• Air Handler Scheduling: Align air handler operation with occupancy patterns. For example, adjust air handling in conference rooms or unused office spaces during low-occupancy times.
• Chilled Water Systems: Schedule these systems to run during non-peak hours when possible, avoiding high-demand electricity rates.

3. Upgrade Lighting to Include More Modern Bulbs

Transitioning to LED lighting is one of the simplest and least expensive energy-saving changes you can make. Here’s why you should choose LED lights:

• High Energy Efficiency: LED lights use up to 90 % less energy than conventional incandescent or halogen bulbs while providing adequate brightness and aesthetic appeal.
• Long Life: LEDs have a lifespan of up to 15 times longer, avoiding the high maintenance cost and interruptions due to frequent replacements.
• Versatility: Whether you need warm, ambient lighting or bright task lights, LEDs come in multiple varieties to meet every requirement and preference.

4. Upgrade Your Structure

Building codes may dictate the minimum requirements for roofing or windows, but for those buildings that aren’t highly regulated, there is an opportunity to improve. These improvements are best handled in stages, so you don’t spend too much at one time. The EPA has more information on retro-commissioning and dealing with outdated infrastructure.

Some areas where you can work are as follows:

• Insulation and Roofing: Consider updating insulation to prevent heat transfer and regulate temperature. Your cooling costs can be lowered even more in summer, thanks to reflective roofing materials.
• Windows and Doors: Change old windows in exchange for double glazed ones or low Emissivity (lowE) glass. These help insulate the home while also minimizing glare and UV exposure.
• Retro-Commissioning: If your building is older, this will show the obvious/outdated systems and help it become more energy efficient without a thorough reassessment.

5. Don’t Forget the Outdoors

Your building’s exterior and landscape are ripe for energy savings:

• Exterior lighting: Replace traditional outdoor lights with energy-efficient LED floodlights and motion sensors for pathways and parking lots. Solar-powered lights are another eco-friendly option.
• Landscaping for efficiency: Plant trees or shrubs strategically to provide shade and reduce cooling costs. Deciduous trees, for instance, offer shade in summer and allow sunlight during winter.
• Water-efficient irrigation: Install drip irrigation systems and use native plants that require minimal watering, reducing both water and energy usage.
• Cool pavements: Use materials that reflect more sunlight, such as cool asphalt or reflective concrete, to reduce heat absorption around your building, indirectly lowering cooling costs.

6. Leverage Renewable Energy Options

Small businesses can benefit from renewable energy sources to offset energy costs:

• Solar panels: Installing solar panels on rooftops or in open areas can provide a sustainable source of electricity and reduce dependency on the grid.
• Green energy suppliers: Many energy providers offer renewable energy plans, allowing you to support clean energy without installing equipment.
• Tax incentives: Check for government grants or tax credits that support the adoption of renewable energy for businesses.

7. Implement Smart Building Technologies

Smart technology can streamline energy management and improve efficiency:

• Smart thermostats: These devices learn usage patterns and adjust heating or cooling to save energy without sacrificing comfort.
• Automated lighting: Install motion sensors or daylight harvesting systems that adjust indoor lighting based on occupancy and natural light.
• Energy monitoring tools: Use smart meters or energy dashboards to track real-time energy usage and identify areas for improvement.

8. Engage in Energy Audits

Professional energy audits can uncover hidden inefficiencies and savings opportunities:

• Utility company audits: Many utility providers offer free or low-cost energy assessments to identify areas for improvement.
• DIY energy checks: Use online tools or guides to conduct basic audits and prioritize low-cost upgrades.
• Implement audit recommendations: Address areas highlighted in the audit, such as air leaks, outdated equipment, or inefficient lighting.

Summary

Are you considering ways to implement renewable energy tactics into your business operation? Or are you concerned about your commercial electricity bill? Get started by hiring an expert who can audit your current energy plan for any inefficiencies to see how you can best move forward.