Simple no cost measures

• Switch off motors instead of leaving them idle.
• Attach an operating schedule to all machinery so operators know when it should be turned off. Use an hour's run meter to measure how long equipment has been running and compare with the required hours of operation.
• Reduce the operating time of motors whenever possible by improving control of motor driven loads and switch them off, either manually or automatically, when not required.
• Turn off all machines (fans, pumps, conveyors, equipment) outside of operating hours, at weekends or during holidays.
• Lower the motor’s speed by 20%.
• Ensure motors are regularly cleaned as a dirty motor will get much hotter than a clean one and this can result in increased inefficiencies.
• The 'loading' of a motor is the amount of work it does compared with its capability. Matching the right size motor to the right load (typically 75% loading) can ensure optimum performance.

Other measures

• Regular maintenance of motor systems including regular lubrication, checks for belt tension and alignment testing can to save up to 10% on energy consumption. Prepare a schedule and procedure for motor maintenance and ensure staff promptly report faulty or noisy motors. Have a plan for repairing failed motors, which compares long-term repair vs. replacement costs.
• If the motor size is big for its required purpose, consider replacing the motor with a smaller and more efficient option.
• Always consider investing in high efficiency motors for new equipment.
• A Variable Speed Drive (VSD) is a system that can control rotational speed and torque on an AC motor by adjusting the power supplied to the motor to match the load requirement. A small reduction in the power load can have significant benefits for the consumption of electricity on sites motor installations.

Simple no cost measures

• Only consider using compressed air in processes when essential. If possible, use high speed fans as they are cheaper to run.
• Consider switching off an idle compressor, either manually or automatically, as it uses almost 40% of its full load during idling.
• The simplest way to improve the efficiency of compressed air units is to identify and repair leaking areas into the system. Regular leak checks can avoid energy waste.

Other measures

• Invest in self-isolating pipework for compressed air systems in large facilities as it reduces waste and leakages due to isolation.
• Consider using cool air compression systems (possibly with heat recovery) to reduce load on the compressor and to improve the overall energy efficiency of the facility.

Simple no cost measures

• In larger refrigeration systems, check for bubbles in the refrigerant cooling liquid sight-glass as they indicate a leak that should be repaired.
• Refrigerators and freezers should be located away from heat sources in order to reduce cooling load on the refrigeration system.
• Keep condensers and evaporators clean and free of dust and dirt. Introduce a scheduled maintenance programme to check for scaling, ice build-up, damaged vent fins which can impact the systems performance.
• Check and maintain strip curtains on walk-in refrigerated spaces.
• Ensure seals and gaskets are in good condition.
• Check air flow around refrigeration units and remote compressors to ensure that they are not obstructed and that grills are not blocked.
• Avoid overcooling and maintain correct temperatures as per requirements of the stored items.
• Avoid overloading or empty running refrigeration systems as it impacts performance of the systems

Other measures

• Upgrade older systems with newer, more efficient refrigeration technologies.
• Service refrigeration system and components annually.
• Annual calibration of controls will maintain performance
• Invest in pipe insulations and good quality seals to reduce cooling losses.
• If refrigeration output varies significantly (e.g. refrigeration systems in retail stores), consider using two (or more) smaller refrigeration units rather than one large one and turn off any unused equipment.

If your business involves being on the road then switching to an electric fleet can cut your businesses carbon footprint drastically. The electric motors used by EVs run at over 70% efficiency when converting power from the grid to power for your car. In comparison, a conventional fuel engine runs between 15% and 30% efficiency. EVs are also proven to be environmentally friendly with zero tailpipe emissions; and when combined with renewable power source for charging you can feel good every time you switch on.

For more information on how to reduce your carbon footprint and build a greener, cleaner business, contact our dedicated team at BusinessEnergySolutions@sse.com