Nine Ways to Reduce Energy Costs

Read on for nine easy, fast, and permanent ways to reduce a major operating expense—electricity costs.

1. Lighting. Replace outdated incandescent light bulbs with light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or compact florescent light bulbs. Install occupancy sensors so lights will only operate when motion is detected.
2. Heating/Cooling. Adjusting the temperature on your thermostat by only a few degrees can significantly lower energy costs. Many electricity utility companies offer financial incentives for upgrading HVAC systems. 
3. Demand Response Program. Receive payments for voluntarily reducing electricity usage during peak demand times. This also benefits the grid system and the environment.
4. Efficiency project. Upgrade your facility and equipment. Install energy efficient appliances and machines. Many state governments and electricity utility companies offer financial incentives and reimbursements for energy efficiency measures.
5. Reduce consumption. Schedule operations for off-peak hours. Use an onsite generator. Shut down equipment whenever possible.
6. Energy audit. An efficiency expert can evaluate your facility and procedures, and identify ways to increase efficiencies, including peak load scheduling, upgrading HVAC systems, and upgrading to advanced metering technology.
7. Energy Data Tracking. Online energy management systems track and report energy costs and consumption. Benchmarking tools measure efficiency projects. Compare your business to similar locations to identify ways to cut costs.
8. Review your energy bill. Ensure you pay the correct price per kilowatt hour. Look for added costs and line items. 
9. Fixed Price. Mitigate risk exposure to volatile energy prices by using a fixed-price electricity supply contract. APPI Energy reviews thousands of supplier prices every day to deliver true apples-to-apples comparisons. For a courtesy evaluation, contact 410-749-5507.