We were going to use this edition to launch our new ‘Technology Corner’ regular section, but recent events in the Middle East have overtaken us.
It seems increasingly possible that interruptions to the supply of fossil fuels from the Gulf states will be protracted, given that there is no plan for the end of the current war. The wholesale prices of oil and gas have already risen sharply, and there is no obvious reason why they might come back down soon.
We’re not telling you anything you don’t already know, and of course, you will be concerned about what these might mean for your business.
It is imperative now to go right back to the basics of energy use, and follow a process.
How you use energy. Where and how is heat, power and transport fuel used? Not the bills, but the actual amounts of energy in kWh and litres. For electricity, if you have half hourly metering, you’ll be able to track your daily useage, and spot any unusual out-of-hours consumption and investigate from their. Are you using energy unnecessarily? Are lights and appliances left on when not in use? Do you have to keep stock at the same temperature as you keep people? Can you do the same with less?
Controls. You’ll be wanting to check that all your heating controls are in operation and properly set, and that all the relevant staff know how to use them, and know when not to adjustment them. Making small adjustments to thermostats and heating timers can make a significant impact on heat energy use.
The first 5-10% of energy savings are to be found simply in using energy smarter, without any investment needed.
Maintenance. Simple things like keeping windows and rooflights clean with reduce need for electric lighting. Does you building have draughts, does the roller shutter door close properly? Are doors left open, does you compressed air system leak, and when was the compressor last serviced? Are your road vehicles in tip-top condition – tyre pressures, service intervals even cleanliness all affect fuel efficiency.
Technology review. Up to now, you haven’t spent any money, but you’ve possibly saved up to 10% from your overall energy costs. Now it’s time to take a closer look at your energy consuming technology. How old is it, and are more modern and efficient alternatives available? Has new technology overtaken and replaced what you have in place?
Supply Chain. The factors affecting your operation will also be felt by your suppliers, who may well raise their prices to you to cover their costs. The imperative here is to ensure that your process is as efficient as possible by minimising wastage and maximising the value of incoming goods and materials.
Resilience and energy security. Energy security is most often discussed in the national context, but it is as relevant at the business level. On-site renewables such as solar PV, alternative fuels, energy storage, adaptable processes are all means of helping de-couple a business’s energy use from these global price fluctuations.
Conclusion
If the cost of your energy isn’t at the forefront of your mind right now, then it probably should be. There will almost certainly be opportunities to mitigate the risk that you may not be aware of or have considered.