A good energy management policy could save you money and have a positive impact on your business and energy sustainability. Take these steps to reduce your energy consumption:

1. Analyse energy bills, regularly read meters, identify energy use by different activities and processes and relate energy use to weather and production levels

2. Review all aspects of energy use within buildings eg:

Temperature control: Reducing the temperature by 1°C, could reduce heating bills by 10 percent. This must be balanced with the requirement to provide and maintain a reasonable level of thermal comfort for the welfare of the majority of employees in the building. Aim to position and set thermostats between 16 and 19°C and fit tamper-proof thermostats.

Consider replacing air-conditioning with mechanical (fans) and natural ventilation, as air conditioned buildings can use much more energy.

Insulate or draught-proof windows, doors, lofts, boilers and pipes, concentrating on the hottest ones and the ones in the coldest areas. For long-term savings, replace old heating systems with energy-efficient models. Regular maintenance of boilers can ensure energy efficiency and that air emissions are controlled

In offices, switch off equipment when not in use. Check energy consumption levels and ratings for equipment before purchase. Always consider buying the most energy-efficient option, as energy consumption can vary based on equipment age, maintenance, model and manufacturer.

Switch off lights when not needed. Clean light fittings regularly to maximise the available light. Maximise natural light by keeping windows clean. This goes hand in hand with legal duties set in the Workplace (Health Safety and Welfare) Regulations, which require sufficient cleanliness in the workplace, including fittings.