Holiday Energy Savings: 7 Tips for Small Businesses

The holiday season is upon us, and while it’s a time for celebration and increased business activity, it’s also a period when energy costs can increase. With lights, heating, and extended hours, businesses often see a spike in their energy bills. As you prepare for the season, reviewing how and when your business uses energy can help you identify opportunities to manage usage and costs.

1. Upgrade to LED Lights: If you’re still using incandescent bulbs for your holiday decorations, consider upgrading to LED lights. They use up to 75% less energy and last 25 times longer, and they produce less heat, reducing the risk of fire hazards.
2. Optimize Heating: Heating costs can be a major expense during the winter months. Make sure your heating system is running efficiently by scheduling a maintenance check. Consider installing a programmable thermostat to automatically lower the temperature during off-hours.
3. Use Timers and Smart Plugs: Timers and smart plugs can help you control when your lights and decorations are on. Set them to turn off during non-business hours to avoid wasting energy.
4. Seal Drafts: Gaps around windows and doors can lead to significant heat loss. Consider using weather stripping or caulk to seal gaps and maintain a consistent temperature inside your business.
5. Turn Off Unused Equipment: Changes to holiday hours and staffing schedules may mean that certain areas or equipment aren’t being used as often. Look at computers, monitors, kitchen equipment, displays, and other appliances, and turn them off when they’re not needed. If your business is closing for the holidays, consider making an equipment check part of your closing routine.
6. Plan Ahead for Peak Hours: The holiday season may come with extended hours and busier days, which can lead to higher energy use during peak operating times. Planning ahead can help you manage costs without sacrificing customer experience. Start by reviewing lighting, heating and cooling, signage, and equipment schedules before your holiday hours begin. If possible, schedule energy-intensive tasks, like running appliances or operating large equipment, outside of peak periods. This can help optimize energy use and keep your bottom line strong.
7. Review Your Energy Supply: While operational changes can help you better manage how your business uses energy, you may have the opportunity to choose an energy supplier and evaluate different plan options, contract terms, and pricing structures. AEP Energy works with small businesses to help them understand their energy usage and goals and recommend an energy plan that fits their business.

The holiday season can be a busy time for businesses. By reviewing operating schedules, lighting, heating, and equipment use, you may identify opportunities to use energy more efficiently without interfering with day-to-day operations.

Your energy supply is worth reviewing, too. If you’re exploring energy choice for the first time or considering your options ahead of an upcoming renewal, AEP Energy can help simplify the process. Click here to learn more.

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