Energy

Energy Tips

Change BEHAVIOR

• Switch off electrical devices when not in use (i.e. printers, monitors, speakers, toasters, etc.)
• See the power bars produced by Belkin and Bits Limited for saving energy.
• Turn out lights when not needed 
• Unplug electronics during extended periods of non-usage to prevent phantom load 
• Post reminder stickers/posters on and/or around light switches
• Unblock heat flows by moving furniture away from registers
• Adjust power saving settings on all computers
• Wash laundry in warm or cold water; rinse in cold water
• Schedule cleaning staff during the day so that they can make use of natural lighting 
• Switch off AC after work
• Turn down the heat or air-conditioning a fraction. Do you really need to get around in summer clothes in winter? Even setting your thermostat up or down a degree or two can make a huge difference in electricity consumption.
• Reduce the energy-related environmental impact of your home or business by choosing a green energy provider, like  Bullfrog Power 

Use TECHNOLOGY

• Remove or reduce unnecessary lighting (i.e. remove some bulbs from fixtures, or replace bulbs with lower light output bulbs in over-lit areas)
• Switch light bulbs in your workplace from incandescent to CFL or LED 
• Set thermostats in frequently used rooms to 24oC in summer, and 20oC in winter. 
• Set thermostats in unoccupied areas to 29oC in summer and 17oC in winter
• Reduce exterior drafts, check caulking and weather stripping annually
• Create a monthly reminder to check filters on HVAC components and replace or clean as necessary
• Install motion sensors or timers on light switches (particularly in bathrooms and storage areas)
• Install on-demand water heaters
• Add insulation to roof, walls and basement
• Install reflective panels behind radiators 
• Install awnings or light colored shades to keep summer heat out
• Contact a controls company to determine if a Building Management System (to control heat, ventilation, lighting etc.) is appropriate for your building
• Where reasonable, separate heating and cooling equipment (i.e. don’t keep a freezer in your server room, have refrigeration condensers located outside of kitchens, etc.)
• Install solar panels 

Create POLICY

• Obtain an energy audit (Saskatchewan Environmental Society can provide audits for small buildings; contact engineering consultants for large buildings)

Natural Resources Canada published these two documents filled with industry-specific tips and checklists for the hospitality and retail sectors. 
Saving Energy Dollars in Hotels, Motels and Restaurants (Natural Resources Canada)
Saving Energy Dollars in Stores, Supermarkets and Malls (Natural Resources Canada)
For building owner/operators, SaskPower offers technical advice on the efficient operation of electric motors, fans, heat pumps, and refrigeration systems. 
By choosing Bullfrog Power, you also support new renewable energy project development in your region and across Canada, and help create a cleaner, healthier world. Simple. Affordable. Pollution-free. It's the better energy choice. 
 
 Energy tips developed by Angie Bugg and the Saskatchewan Environmental Society.