With gas and oil prices through the roof, energy usage in your store can have a big impact on your bottom-line. The Wall Street Journal (subscription required) article “Strategies for Reining In Energy Costs,” notes that prices aren’t likely to go down anytime soon, so it’s important to figure out where to make changes for both short and long-term cost savings.
Small business reporter Kelly K. Spors shares the following tips to help companies save energy (and money):
- Focus first on the big energy sappers: While a patchwork approach can be tempting, Spors says you’ll get the most bang from your buck if you target the big culprits. She gives the example of a restaurant installing more energy efficient refrigeration and lighting systems. As a jeweler, lighting costs -- for overall ambiance and displays -- are probably number one on your list. One way to put a dent into these costs is to use more energy-efficient light bulbs. While these cost more than standard bulbs, Spors says they will pay for themselves in longer-term savings.
- Make small changes: Once you’ve taken care of the larger
energy drains, make small adjustments. For example, turn off the lights
when they’re not in use and make sure your building is adequately
insulated. Other steps include installing programmable thermostats and
motion sensors, to help control room temperature and lighting over the
course of a day.
- Audit your energy use: Sometimes the problem is figuring out
what energy-saving strategies will yield the fastest returns. An
auditor can analyze energy use and help come up with solutions. In some
cases, Spors writes they can help companies qualify for state and
federal tax rebates and other incentives. You can speak to your local
utility company (many offer free audits to small business customers) or
get a reference from them. You can also read about audit programs in a
given state at the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE).
- Talk to your power company: Many utilities can help businesses to find the best rate plans for their usage patterns.
- Tell your customers: More and more consumers indicate they want to shop at environmentally-friendly retailers. Sharing the steps you've taken to make your store more energy lean (and "green") reminds them that you're doing your part.
Take The Tip:
Review our "Light Right" tip, to find out more about lighting efficiently.
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