Summer Conservation Tips for Businesses

• Shut off non-essential machinery, computers, and other equipment and, if feasible, 50 percent of the copiers.
• Raise thermostat settings for your air conditioning systems by a few degrees during the working hours, and consider raising the thermostat further when your facilities are unoccupied. Raising the thermostat a degree a day (up to 78 degrees) will make the transition easier.
• Consider moving operations or production schedules away from the first shift, or starting the first shift earlier in the day, to avoid high electricity demands during peak usage periods.
• Consider precooling your facility in the early morning hours, prior to peak demand for electricity.
• Verify that all maintenance has been performed on your air conditioning equipment, including changing the filters.
• Use drapes or shades to prevent direct sunlight from entering your building.
• Turn off every second or third lighting fixture in order to conserve electricity and reduce the need for air conditioning.
• Allow casual wear that is more comfortable when air conditioning is reduced. Offer flex hours in the summer where practical to allow employees to come in earlier and leave earlier.
• Implement "cool café" days, when the food service only serves cold items such as sandwiches, salads, fruits and vegetables.