ARENA Network Carbon Reduction Program

Taking Action

Through participating in the ARENA Network Carbon Reduction Program and receiving an Energy Audit and Carbon Footprint Analysis, the next step is to develop the implementation plan and to put the theory into practice!

Reducing the amount of the energy you consume is one of the fastest, most effective ways to save your business money. It will also help your business do its bit to combat climate change by reducing your Carbon Footprint.

The following recommendations can be use as a guide to assist you in your energy reduction strategies:

Heating
Lighting
Office equipment
In the factory
Hot water
Kitchen area
Building envelope
Transport

Heating costs rise by about 8% for every 1oC of overheating...

Heating costs rise by about 8% for every 1oC of overheating. Heating and hot water costs can account for up to 60% of a building's total energy costs. By understanding the systems installed and by only heating spaces to the minimum level to achieve comfort, it is possible to save up to one third on these costs.

Lighting

Installing the most energy efficient lighting systems . . .

Installing the most energy efficient lighting systems can save up to 30% (more in some cases) on electricity bills and often results in better quality lighting

Office equipment

Computers and equipment are generally switched off ...

Computers and equipment are generally switched off where applicable (fax machine/photocopier can not be switched off), however increase awareness of importance of switching off all equipment when it is not in use.

In the factory

Compressed air leaking through a 5mm hole could cost . . .

Compressed air leaking through a 5mm hole could cost £14,000 per year. Motors can consume their purchase price in energy costs in just a few weeks

Hot water

The water is heated by Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) . . .

The water is heated by Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) and generated at the point of use in accordance with good practice. The hot water tank and pipes are insulated.

Kitchen area

Establish the minimum heat-up times for appliances, and make sure staff observe them . . .

Establish the minimum heat-up times for appliances, and make sure staff observe them. Do not switch on appliances until required, and switch them off when they are no longer in use.

Building envelope

The building is well insulated. Insulation levels should be checked . . .

The building is well insulated. Insulation levels should be checked and increased wherever possible to reduce the need for heating. This can also reduce the possibility of the building overheating in summer.