Looking to reduce costs and become more sustainable? Emily Berry, Partnerships Manager at Utility Aid, has some energy saving tips for WCVA members.
In today’s world voluntary organisations of all sizes are recognising the importance of embracing sustainability practices. One significant step towards a greener future is reducing energy consumption and becoming carbon neutral.
TOP TIPS TO SAVE ENERGY
Boilers
Heating typically account for 40% of energy in non-domestic buildings…
- Maintain your boiler regularly for maximum efficiency. Once a year is recommended.
- Consider upgrading if it’s more than ten years old.
- A poorly operated and maintained boiler can increase heating costs by 30% or more.
Temperature control
Heating costs rise by about 8% for every 1°C of overheating…
- Make sure your thermostat is centrally located, away from draughts or direct sun where temperatures fluctuate.
- Draught-proofing can help keep your building’s temperature stable.
- For most people, the thermostat can be set to 18-20°C.
- Use a seven-day timer to avoid paying for unoccupied days.
Radiators
Trapped air bubbles in your central heating system can stop it from heating your building efficiently leading to higher consumption and cost for you…
- Bleeding your radiators twice a year can increase their efficiency.
- Are you heating storerooms, corridors, areas already benefitting from solar heat, and areas where there is a high level of physical activity?
- Fit Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRV) for better control of your heating.
Lighting
Lighting typically accounts for 17% of energy use in non-domestic buildings…
- Switch to LED, CFL or Halogen bulbs.
- Invest in motion sensors for transitory spaces like bathrooms or corridors.
- Invest in light sensors to make the most of free natural light.
- Keep your windows and skylights clean to maximise efficacy.
SUPPORT FOR WCVA MEMBERS
Utility Aid is the UK’s largest energy broker for the voluntary sector, and we are passionate about ensuring voluntary organisations get quality service and support. We have a dedicated team of experts who provide a high-level service to organisations of all sizes to manage and maintain your energy portfolio.
Utility Aid are offering a desktop audit to WCVA members to identify any discrepancies on invoices, including consumption fluctuations, inaccurate billing, incorrect VAT, incorrect tariff and general anomalies. Contact me (Emily Berry) to find out more (call 0808 178 2021 or email eberry@utility-aid.com) or send us an enquiry at www.utility-aid.co.uk/contactform/WCVA.
HELPING YOU ON YOUR JOURNEY TO NET ZERO
We understand that transitioning to net zero is a complex undertaking. That’s why we offer a range of tailored services to support you every step of the way. From compliance with regulations to implementing energy-saving measures, we’re here to help you achieve your net zero goals.
Our services include:
- Helping larger organisations meet reporting requirements – Our Lead Assessor Services help you comply with the Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) regulation.
- Unlocking energy savings opportunities – Our comprehensive Discovery Document services provide a detailed assessment of your organisation’s energy consumption patterns and help identify opportunities for significant cost-savings and carbon emission reductions.
- Giving you energy management expertise – Our Group Energy Champion Training empowers your employees to become champions of energy efficiency within your organisation.
GET IN TOUCH
Ready to embark on your journey to net zero? Contact Utility Aid to discuss your specific needs and how we can help you achieve your sustainability goals. With our expert guidance and personalised solutions, you can reduce your carbon footprint, save money, and pave the way for a brighter future for your organisation and the planet.
Visit utility-aid.co.uk to find out more.
JARGON BUSTER
Update April 2024. Our jargon buster explains some of the complicated language around energy, available in English or Welsh.