WHY SAVE ENERGY?
There are two main reasons for seriously considering the
benefits of saving energy, one is environmental the other is economic.
Environmental
Whenever we use fossil fuels to heat our buildings, power
our cars or generate electricity the by-products of combustion pollute the
environment. The main concern is the
release of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) gas, which contributes to climate change. There are also other pollutants released,
dependent upon the fuel concerned. Sulphur Dioxide (SO2)
contributes to acid rain and Nitrogen Oxides (Nox) leads to low-level ozone, which affects our
health. By using less fuel to achieve
the same end result, this can lead to low-level ozone which affects our health. Also by using less fuel to achieve the same end
result, through energy efficiency we reduce pollution and improve the
environment.
There are other means of producing energy which are seen as
“clean” in terms of CO2 production such as hydro, nuclear and
renewables like wind and wave power. However, environmentally they still have an impact. What do we do with spent nuclear fuel? Large dams for hydroelectric power flood eco-systems and affect wild life. Wind power
has its objectors to the visual and noise impact. Therefore, the only way to ease all these
problems is to use less energy to provide the services that we need.
One last point on the environmental issue is that “green
purchasing” is becoming an ever-more important topic for consumers and
investors. Companies that can
demonstrate an environmental awareness and responsibility can enhance their
reputation and increase their market share.
Economic
Economically, energy efficiency is vital to the
profitability of any company. Energy
cost savings go straight to the bottom line making the business more
competitive, safeguarding profits and employment.
Unless energy efficiency has recently been thoroughly
addressed within your organisation there are likely to be potential energy
savings of between 10 and 20% readily achievable. Whilst 20% of energy costs may not be
considerable in terms of turnover it will be significant in terms of increased
profitability.
For example:
- Consider a
company with a turnover of £1,000,000
- With a 10%
profit margin, £100,000
- Their
energy cost may be £40,000
- Achievable
energy savings of 20% represent £8,000
- This an
increase in profit of 8%
To achieve this by increasing sales would mean finding a
market for another £80,000 of goods. This may not be so easy.
Strategies...
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