A company that possesses good energy management practices is doing more than just saving a few dollars. Companies that have energy management practices in place save fossil fuels, reduce pollution, reduce damage to animal habitats and help reinforce an energy saving lifestyle.

Many people forget about conserving energy at work simply because they don’t have to pay for it. As a company, you need to reinforce energy saving programs and practices with reminders for your employees.

Turning off the lights is obviously one of the biggest energy saving tips. Placing signs to remind employees to turn off the lights as they leave is a great way to keep it fresh in everyone’s mind. Using bulbs with lower wattage, CFL bulbs or fluorescent lighting, can change your energy usage dramatically.

Whenever possible you should try to encourage the use of natural sunlight.  Open blinds or curtains and let in the light from outside. This can keep you from using all the lights. Another easy way to save energy is to keep bulbs and fixtures clean. This allows more light through.

Focus the light you have on workstations. There is no need to have the same lighting in areas where people are sitting, waiting or in storage areas.

Try to cut down on your dependence on the heater and air conditioner.  Try to let in air from outside when it is comfortable weather. Use fans when you need air circulation.

Make sure your air conditioner or heater is not running while doors and windows are open. During the winter set the temperature between 68 and 70 degrees and 78 to 80 degrees during the summer. Suggest that the air filters be checked on monthly basis. An old air filter can use up to 50% more energy than a new one.

Copy machines, printers and computers should be set to energy saving mode or off when not in use. Other office equipment or radios should also be turned off when no one is in the office.  If your business is closed at night or on the weekend, make sure the last person to leave checks all the lights and turns of the A/C or heater before they go.

You don’t have to completely change your way of thinking, just make small steps to save energy. Utilizing all the above tips will show a change on your next energy bill and help your company save money while having a positive impact on the environment.