Evidence has shown that most businesses could simply and quickly cut their heating, lighting and power bills by 10% or more without any capital investment.

With a little investment, savings of 20% are realistic and some companies have even cut their energy costs in half, becoming more profitable and competitive as a result.

As well as the general advice provided below, the Carbon Trust can help you focus on savings which are specific to your sector and provide assistance via its help-line.

Lighting Tips

Turn off lights in empty rooms and corridors, especially at the end of the day. This can save up to 15% of your lighting bill. Use only the light you need, lights too bright in corridors? Remove or switch off alternate fittings. Use daylight it's free and keep windows and skylights clean and clear. Clean light fittings annually, dirt reduces lighting efficiency, encouraging people to switch more lights on.

Heating Tips

Set the thermostat at 19°C, on average costs rise by 8% for every 1°C increase. Do not heat unused space (storerooms, corridors) and in areas where there is heavy physical work, temperatures can be set lower. Reduce heating during holidays and weekends. Keep radiators clear and do not put furniture directly in front of them as it reduces efficiency and output. Check that thermostats are sited out of draughts and away from either cold or hot spots. Keep windows closed in cold weather and in warm weather turn the heating down.

Energy Management Tips

'If you can't measure it, you can't manage it'. USP Solutions (UK) strongly advises you to regularly check on your consumption of energy and make sure that your bills relate to what you actually use, rather than what the supply company thinks you are using based on an estimate. Ask your colleagues where they think energy is being wasted and for their ideas about saving energy.