Offices

Considerable energy saving can be made in offices by using energy-efficient equipment.

One of the first things to do when assessing potential energy-saving measures in offices is to assess what energy is being used for. Every office will be different.

Plug-in meters are available which can be used to measure the energy consumption of different equipment, and equipment labels can be consulted.

The following measures can help to reduce energy consumption in offices:

• Carrying out an energy-use assessment/audit/check.
• Installing air-conditioning systems and units that are more efficient.
• Installing proper controls in air conditioning systems (thermostats).
• Carrying out regular maintenance of air conditioning systems.
• Using individual air-conditioning units instead of centralised systems.
• Using alternative cooling methods (e.g. evaporative coolers).
• Using fans (portable) when and where appropriate.
• Using LED lighting.
• Installing light sensors to control lighting.
• IT equipment produces heat which has to be removed by the cooling system: consider relocating equipment to cooler locations, where appropriate.
• Selecting and using office equipment and appliances with higher energy efficiency classes such as computers which use less energy (e.g. laptops and tablets consume much less energy than desktops).
• Powering off equipment overnight or at weekends if it is not necessary (e.g. photocopiers and vending machines).
• Enabling energy-saving or sleeping/hibernation modes on photocopiers and printers.
• Educating employees about energy use.
• Including responsibility for energy management in job descriptions

Improving office energy efficiency means that a smaller PV system can be installed, usually at a lower price.