- Every SME could pay more than £90/year just to run a single computer, says report
- Most workers leave their devices on, even when they are not there
- This could be the perfect opportunity to upgrade with energy-efficient technology
Although many companies have largely strengthened their return-to-office policies, many are still struggling with higher-than-average energy bills due to worker behavior, according to a new study.
The Uswitch study reveals that using a single computer can cost SMEs more than £90 a year, with workers doing little to save electricity.
Around a fifth of workers admit to leaving their laptops, desktops and screens on simply because they don’t have to pay their energy bills.
Worker habits are driving up office energy bills
But it’s not just a daily habit. A quarter leave them on during vacations or longer shutdowns, 22% rarely or never turn off their screen when away for extended periods, and 21% rarely or never put their computer to sleep when not active.
On the other hand, the number of workers making proactive energy decisions is low. Only about a third of them adjust screen brightness to reduce power consumption.
Business energy expects Ben Gallizzi to urge businesses to carry out an energy audit to identify, as a starting point, where electricity is being wasted. From there, they have several routes.
In addition to replacing older, energy-inefficient appliances, SMEs need to educate their staff and refine their policies and expectations. “There are opportunities for business owners and managers to better communicate about energy policies and the benefits of reducing energy consumption for both sustainability and financial purposes,” he wrote.
They may also look to reduce their bills by finding other providers with lower unit rates. Commercial renewal windows typically extend up to six months before the contract end date, Gallizzi explained.
Even combined, these changes might not have a huge impact on your energy bills, but in today’s cash-strapped economy, every savings adds up.
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