REDUCING YOUR POWER COSTS IN A RISING PRICE ENVIRONMENT:
The energy category is not only complicated but requires intricate and detailed thought and procedures to be implemented in order to achieve cost reduction and value for money. It also requires patience as the pay back period for energy control system investments is between one and two and a half years depending on the hours of usage.
Here, Expense Reduction Analysts (ERA) energy cost management specialist, George Beyrouthi shares his views on how to put a strategy in place to reduce energy costs effectively.
According to George, "The first step is to review energy consumption over the past twelve months. This obviously relates to both electricity and gas.
"From this, a detailed load profile can be produced and analysed. ERA then reviews and discusses the operational requirements with the client's stakeholders and a brief is put out to the market for quotes." ERA has the expertise and tools to undertake all these steps in consultation with the client.
"Where competition is relevant, make sure that you negotiate the best tariff based on assumed trends and risks, the optimum length of contract and remember that this will include various peak, shoulder and off peak tiers," adds George.
But this is not where it ends. ERA also conducts site audits and if required, measures the energy units in any one typical day. "We look at whether savings can be achieved if the daily loads are spread more efficiently across the 24 hours of the day cycle in order to take advantage of lower tariffs. Plus we install energy monitoring and demand management systems to reduce peak usage and can even install duplicate meters to double-check usage against the energy supplier," he comments.
The final recommendation in saving energy is to look at a comprehensive range of lighting control systems. The choice is endless - from occupancy detectors to photoelectric sensors for measuring natural light to Light Eco to replace fluorescent lighting which can save approximately 20% in costs to electronic lighting ballasts and so on.
Expense Reduction Analysts - Working in partnership with our clients to maximise profits
