The Tribune

Bahamian small businesses have, for many years, complained about the high and rising cost of energy. The harsh reality is that the failure of countless numbers of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) can be directly linked to high energy costs.

This week’s column focuses on practical ways companies can conserve energy during the hot and brutal summer months. Here are a few suggestions for energy conservation and savings:

1. Maximise natural light

* Open blinds and curtains during the day to let in natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting.

* Rearrange workspaces to take advantage of natural light.

* Use light-coloured walls and surfaces to reflect sunlight.

2. Optimise Lighting

* Switch to energy-efficient LED lighting, which uses significantly less energy and emits less heat than traditional bulbs.

* Install motion sensor lights in infrequently used areas.

* Use dimmer switches or task lighting to adjust light levels as needed.

* Turn off lights when leaving a room or at the end of the workday.

3. Efficient cooling and HVAC

* Ensure proper insulation and ventilation to keep cool air in and hot air out.

* Use programmable thermostats to set different temperatures for different times of the day and when the building is unoccupied.

* Consider using fans to circulate air and reduce the reliance on air conditioning.

* Ensure your HVAC system is well-maintained and filters are clean.

* Maintain a comfortable but slightly higher temperature setting for your cooling system.

4. Equipment and appliances

* Turn off computers, monitors and other equipment when not in use.

* Unplug chargers and other devices that consume energy even when not actively in use.

* Consider replacing older, energy-inefficient equipment with newer, energy-efficient models.

* Use power strips to easily turn off multiple devices at once.

* For manufacturing facilities, consider using energy-draining equipment during off-peak hours.

5. Operational Practices

* Conduct an energy audit to identify areas of high energy consumption.

* Encourage staff to adopt energy-saving habits.

* Consider flexible or hybrid working arrangements to reduce the number of employees in the office at any given time.

* Consider investing in renewable energy sources.

* Review your energy tariff to ensure you are getting the best possible rate

• NB: Ian R Ferguson is a talent management and organisational development consultant, having completed graduate studies with regional and international universities. He has served organisations, both locally and globally, providing relevant solutions to their business growth and development issues. He may be contacted at tcconsultants@ coralwave.com.