Why data is key to being energy efficient and reducing your bottom line

The Covid-19 global pandemic has seen the largest ever annual fall in CO2 emissions as many countries have enforced lockdowns. It has been predicted by analysts that in 2020, emissions may fall by about 5%, the equivalent to 2.5bn tonnes of CO2. The UK alone has seen a fall of more than a third during lockdown. However, as the UK eases out of lockdown and businesses get back to work, reduced emissions are likely to only be temporary unless fundamental changes are made to the way we operate.

With many businesses closed, operating at a lower capacity or with employees working from home, the pandemic has highlighted how transport, electricity demand and industry activity impacts and contributes to global emissions. It also highlights the effect energy has on a business’s bottom line, with many businesses benefiting from a reduction of essential spend. Although this is only due to businesses not operating as they had prior to the pandemic, it could be an opportunity for businesses to review their working practices and become more energy efficient and reduce costs.

How to keep energy costs to a minimum

Having seen a reduction in essential spend, businesses are likely to want to continue this trend as they get back up and running. There are many things they can do to minimise their energy usage and reduce their carbon footprint to keep costs minimal. At BCR Associates, we recommend businesses start by measuring their energy consumption. Taking regular meter readings will help you to achieve this. Consumption data is fundamental to working towards net zero emissions and reducing energy and costs, as it allows you to make informed decisions.

To gain comprehensive data and insight into your businesses energy consumption we would recommend a using a data management platform which delivers real time, interactive reporting on your business energy usage.

Why is it important to monitor energy data?

Having access to your data will provide your business with:

1) Clarity –Interactive reporting delivers full viability of your energy data in real time, helping you to monitor risk and track changes regardless of time or location. Daily reporting and tracking on energy usage enable you to spot any spikes or inconsistencies and fix any issues.

2) Understanding – You will receive a complete breakdown of how your business uses energy by area, activity and equipment. This will allow you to identify key drivers and usage patterns, potential savings and opportunities to reduce waste and improve efficiencies.   

3) Control –Data analysis will minimise waste and ensure efficiency whilst actively controlling costs and providing budget certainty. It will ensure that your contract and allocated energy capacity meets your business needs. Access to this level of data will also help with compliance to government regulation, as any evidence that you need to submit for assessment will be readily available.  

Data is key to being energy efficient, as once you understand how your business uses energy you can optimise your existing infrastructure, make changes to your working practices, and minimise waste. By continually analysing, tracking and reviewing your energy data you will optimise efficiency and identify opportunities to help your business control costs and work towards carbon neutrality.

If you would like to know more about data management or how you can make your business more energy efficiency, please send us an email at [email protected] or call us on 03330 433 233.