by Shane Henson — September 10, 2012—While it’s no secret that reducing energy costs and carbon emissions is as good for businesses as it is for the environment, the best ways to do so are not as widely known.
However, through two new updated guides from the U.K.-based Carbon Trust, business owners and facilities managers can receive expert advice on how to successfully take advantage of the opportunities in energy efficiency. As the Carbon Trust notes, experience shows that even low- and no-cost actions can usually reduce energy costs by at least 10% and produce quick returns. For many businesses a 20% cut in energy costs represents the same bottom line benefit as a 5% increase in sales.
The Better Business Guide to Energy Saving provides advice on how to conduct an energy assessment, identifying where waste is occurring and savings can be made. This includes general advice for offices, warehouses and factories with heating, lighting, and equipment. It also includes details on how to use energy bills and meter readings to manage energy use. The guide is illustrated with case studies from businesses that have already done this.
Making the Business Case for a Carbon Reduction Project provides detailed recommendations on how to win over decision makers or a board to implement projects. It includes advice on assessing costs, managing risk and arranging finance.
Small or medium-sized businesses can also find out more about how to shrink their footprints and save money by visiting the Carbon Trust’s online forums.
