Cutting energy use in the workplace isn’t just about saving money – it’s about creating a sustainable environment that benefits your staff, your business, and the planet. Whether your motivation is corporate social responsibility or a personal commitment to greener living, there are plenty of practical ways to make a difference. Best of all, the right changes don’t just reduce your carbon footprint; they can also improve employee wellbeing and make your workplace more efficient.
In this guide, we explore some simple yet powerful strategies to help your business save energy without compromising comfort or productivity.
Make the most of lighting
Lighting is one of the biggest contributors to energy use in any office or commercial setting. Start by making the most of natural daylight. Large windows, open layouts, and light-coloured finishes can help bring daylight deeper into your workspace. Natural light doesn’t just cut down on the need for artificial lighting – it’s proven to boost mood and productivity too.
When artificial lighting is needed, switch to energy-efficient LED bulbs, which last longer and use significantly less power. For areas like storage rooms, corridors, or meeting spaces that are used intermittently, motion sensors ensure lights are only on when required. These small changes can add up to major savings over time.
Upgrade heating and cooling systems
Heating and cooling account for a large portion of workplace energy use, so efficiency here is vital. Modern systems, such as heat pumps or energy-efficient radiators, consume far less energy than outdated alternatives. Many also come with zoning controls, so you can tailor temperatures to different areas instead of wasting energy in unused spaces.
Smart thermostats are another effective tool. They learn your daily patterns and automatically adjust temperatures to avoid unnecessary energy use. They also prevent systems from being left running after hours – a common source of wasted power in offices.
Choose energy-saving devices
Everyday appliances and devices also play a role in energy consumption. Look for equipment with strong energy ratings, whether it’s low-energy fridges, efficient kettles, or modern computers. Over time, the savings on electricity bills add up while reinforcing your commitment to sustainability.
Encouraging staff to power down PCs, monitors, and printers at the end of the day also makes a real difference. Even standby mode consumes energy, and across a whole office, this quickly builds up. Smart plugs and timer switches can provide an extra safety net by ensuring devices shut off completely after hours.
Switch to renewable energy
For businesses seeking to advance their energy strategy, renewable options are becoming increasingly accessible. Solar panels can be a great investment if your building has the right roof space or outdoor areas, while solar-powered lighting is a simple way to make outdoor spaces more sustainable.
Even if installing your own panels isn’t feasible, many energy providers now offer green tariffs, allowing you to choose cleaner sources of electricity and further reduce your environmental impact.
Are you ready to refurbish?
At Milkris Interiors, we specialise in commercial fit-outs and refurbishments across London and the UK. If you’re considering an office refresh, we can help you integrate energy-saving solutions that not only reduce costs but also create a workspace your staff will love.
Get in touch today to discuss your project.