Quality of LifeHacks for Keeping Your Energy Costs Low in the Workplace

Winter brings long nights, cold temperatures—and high energy bills. All of that artificial heat and light uses up energy resources and costs a lot.

While we’re often focused on not running up our heating bills at home, it’s just as important to be aware of skyrocketing costs at the office. Here are a few areas to focus on when cutting costs.

Turn things off

With so many people coming in and out, workplaces tend to use energy where it’s not needed. The lights stay on for hours in unused conference rooms. Televisions stay on even when no one watches them. Coffee makers stay warm long after employees have had their last cup. Pay attention to where energy is being wasted, and make it a priority to turn off equipment and appliances when they’re not being used. Educate your coworkers about why you’re doing this and the importance of lowering energy usage to help the environment—and your bottom line.

Find a reasonable temperature

Office temperatures are famously extreme. Too much air conditioning in the summer often leaves us shivering, and in the winter it can easily get too hot indoors. Work with your facilities management team to find a temperature that’s comfortable for everyone and does not waste energy. The Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory once pinpointed the ideal office temperature at 71.6 degrees Fahrenheit—but, in truth, the ideal office temperature may never be found. To save energy, err a little on the low side, maintaining a temperature that is cool and comfortable. This allows your coworkers to dress to achieve their own individual comfort-level.

Equip your office for energy savings

Prepping your office to be energy efficient can save a lot of money. Ensure that your office uses energy efficient light bulbs and appliances, and that they coat any drafty glass windows with heat-blocking film. Ask if the heating and cooling system has been updated recently. More efficient heating and cooling systems can save up to 40 percent on energy costs. If your company is receptive, you could even advocate for installing a green roof or solar panels.

How will you reduce energy usage at the office? Let us know in the comments on Sodexo Insights.