Green Features You Can include
Can You Make Your Business Green?
Many business owners are proud of their GREEN credentials and do everything they can to provide environmentally sustainable products and services. They recycle, purchase recycled goods (think storage racks made from recycled milk containers) use sustainable packaging and deliver goods by renewably powered transport.
However, they can take this one step further and operate from a green building. Which energy saving ideas can you install when you are re-fitting, refurbishing or building from new?
Smart Lighting
This is one of the easiest fixes as energy efficient light bulbs LED’s (light emitting diodes) are widely available and often fit into existing light fittings. LED’s reduce heat emittance and reduce power bills. Automation can be introduced to control lighting and turn off lamps in set ways so that certain lamps in specific areas are on or off at set times. This can look amazing with controls to external lights and also be programmed as part of your security system.
Insulation
The key to insulation is that you do not have gaps that create cold bridges. This allows warm internal temperatures to transfer to colder external temperatures until they reach the same temperature. So, the warm space you paid to heat becomes the same colder temperature as the outside. It is important that insulation is correctly installed or you are wasting your money purchasing the insulation and you increase your energy bills by using unnecessary energy.
All openings must be carefully considered. This includes, windows and doors. Will your window frames have thermal breaks installed and can you double or triple glaze? Will the frames be effectively sealed around the perimeter?
The least considered heat loss is through the floor which can account for 10/20% of the total heat loss for the building. After the concrete floor is installed, there is very little you can easily do to remedy the issue and stop wasting money for the entire life of the building.
Typical Heat Loss
- Walls – 30/35%
- Roof – 15%
- Wall Insulation – 15%
- Floor - 10/20%
- Doors – 5%
Solar Panels
We are used to solar panels in domestic settings but why not harness solar power for your business? With a battery set up you can charge electric business vehicles! Use low-carbon clean energy from the ultimate energy source the sun.
Of course, lighting or power can be used and you will be making a public statement about your commitment to energy saving and renewable sources of power.
Air Source Heat Pumps
Hot Water Heat Pumps can be scaled to commercial and industrial premises. They are recognised as being 4-times more efficient that conventional water heaters and are making technological jumps in efficiency. Why stick with fossil fuels if you can heat and cool your business literally from thin air! Utilise a sustainable energy source to support the environment.
Fitzpatrick Team are well versed in green technology and can suggest many solutions to make sure you new or upgraded premises match your green values.
Give Mark a call to discuss your project.
