Use natural lighting to decrease energy consumption.
Energy conservation in the office is an effective way to improve a company's bottom line, reduce pollution, create a better office atmosphere capable of attracting environmentally conscientious employees and improve public image. Recommendations related to lighting, appliance use, heating and cooling and travel can help an office reduce energy use.
Lighting
Use compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) or light-emitting diodes (LEDs) rather than incandescent bulbs. Turn of lights that are not in use.
Use dimmers and motion or occupancy sensors to conserve energy.
Use natural lighting or day-lighting and turn off unnecessary lights near window when it is bright enough outdoors.
Use task lighting and directly illuminate only active work areas.
Office Equipment
Use energy-efficient appliances and equipment.
Unplug energy draining equipment like coffee pots, printers and cell phone or laptop chargers when not in use.
Replace old cathode ray monitors with LED or LCD monitors.
At the end of the day, turn off computers, printers and photocopiers.
Heating and Cooling
Adjust window blinds daily to maximize heat in winter (i.e. open the blinds of south-facing windows during hours of sunlight and close them when the sunlight is no longer present) and stay cooler in hot months.
Install programmable thermostats and try to minimize the need for and use of the heating and cooling system.
Be certain that HVAC duct work, water heaters and piping are well insulated.
Use an energy management system and make sure it switches into setback mode during unoccupied hours.
Commuting and Travels
Create programs that encourage or reward employees for carpooling, biking or using mass transit.
Analyze the possibility of alternative work schedules and telecommuting to reduce energy-wasting commutes.
Use technology for video, phone or Web conferencing to reduce the need for business travel.
Additional Recommendations
Consult with a professional who can perform an energy audit (generally utility companies have a list of energy auditors available).
Install meters to track energy use.
Collect and analyze utility bills to determine and target the greatest consumption or energy drains in the office.
