Main sources of corporate energy consumption
Before giving advice on how to reduce energy consumption, it's important to identify the main sources of energy consumption within a company:
- Heating accounts for around 50% of energy consumption in the service sector.
- Lighting is also a major item, especially with older, energy-hungry technologies.
- Office equipment (computers, printers, etc.) and household appliances also consume a lot of electricity.
- In industry, machines and production processes consume a lot of energy.
10 practical tips to reduce consumption
- Raise staff awareness of eco-gestures and get everyone involved. Communicate the importance of saving energy.
- Insulate the building and change aging heating systems to reduce heating requirements.
- Replace lighting with LEDs and install presence/luminosity detectors.
- Opt for energy-saving equipment (household appliances, A++ class office equipment, etc.) when renewing equipment.
- Switch off unused appliances and set thermostats to 19°C maximum.
- Encourage teleworking to reduce travel and consumption of premises.
- Optimize ventilation and air conditioning by adjusting and maintaining them correctly.
- Compare energy suppliers to get the best rates and contracts.
- Implement energy management systems to monitor and optimize consumption.
- Use load shedding during peak periods to relieve the power grid.
Case studies
Many companies have already successfully implemented energy-saving plans. For example, Société Générale has reduced its electricity consumption by 12% between 2014 and 2020 thanks to an extensive energy efficiency program (LED lighting, heating/cooling management, etc.). Michelin, for its part, has reduced energy consumption at its industrial sites by 25% between 2010 and 2020 by optimizing its manufacturing processes.
By following these practical tips, any company can significantly reduce its energy footprint, make substantial savings and contribute to the ecological transition.
