Energy costs are continuously rising and it is important to think of ways to cut costs in the workplace. Kai vom Lehn, a Standox energy consultant in Germany, outlines a few simple measures you can implement in your own shops to reduce energy costs by up to 30 per cent.
1. Use waste heat from the air compressor
Air compressors use a large amount of energy and only 10-15 per cent of that energy is transformed into compressed air. The rest becomes heat, which can be used to heat the bodyshop or other communal areas.
Checking the compressor regularly for leakages and holes and switching it off at the end of the day also saves a lot of money.
2. Replace old light bulbs
Replacing the old 72-watt fluorescent strip lighting with new 24-watt LED lighting saves you energy while giving the same amount of light.
3. Check your paintbooth
Older models account for a huge part of the energy bill and it isn't always feasible to get a new spraybooth, but it is possible to install new changes to an existing one.
Installing a heat recovery system to recycle the and reuse the heat emitted by a spraybooth, or installing intelligent heating controls for separate areas of the booth can save up to 40 per cent energy. Seek advice from an expert.
4. Apply everyday tips to the workplace
Install energy-saving lightbulbs and use energy-efficient appliances such as printers, photocopiers, and computers. Make sure they are turned off, rather than on standby, at the end of the day. Motion sensor lights are also useful for corridors and warehouses.
5. Get employees on board
Raising awareness amongst employees means more conscious and deliberate energy saving, which is more effective than simply doing it yourself.
6. Expert advice
Don't adapt to defects or issues - seek professional assistance to help find and target areas for potential savings and investment.
