The festive season offers a perfect opportunity for businesses to cut energy use during downtime, reducing environmental impact and saving money. With rising energy costs and increasing focus on sustainability, here’s how your business can make the most of a power-down period this Christmas.

Why Powering Down Over Christmas Matters

Environmental Impact of Unnecessary Energy Use

Every kWh of energy consumed adds to your carbon footprint. In the UK, the average kWh of electricity produces 162g of CO2, while gas averages 189g of CO2. By reducing energy consumption, you not only save money but also contribute to a greener planet.

Cost-Saving Benefits for Businesses

Energy costs remain high due to geopolitical factors, making savings significant for businesses, especially those with energy-intensive operations. By powering down machinery and systems, you can cut costs during your Christmas break.

Assess Your Energy Needs

Essential vs. Non-Essential Systems

Take stock of your energy use by identifying which systems must remain active and which can be switched off. For offices, heating is often a major consumer, while industrial sites may need to focus on shutting down large equipment.

Monitor Energy-Intensive Equipment

Examples include heating systems, industrial machinery, or even high-use office appliances. Tailor your efforts to the needs of your business to maximise efficiency.

Develop a Power-Down Checklist

Steps to Shut Down Equipment and Systems

Create a simple checklist outlining the shutdown process for each piece of equipment. Include instructions tailored to your business’s operations.

Assign Responsibilities

Make employees responsible for their own workspaces and equipment, with managers overseeing larger systems or shared areas. Clear accountability ensures nothing gets missed.

Monitor and Maintain During the Break

Utilise Smart Meters or Remote Monitoring

Smart meters provide real-time data, allowing you to track energy savings remotely. They help you assess the impact of your efforts and make data-driven decisions.

Prevent Frozen Pipes

Maintain a minimum indoor temperature of 7°C to prevent freezing pipes. Smart thermostats like Hive can automatically activate frost protection to keep your building safe, even when unoccupied.

Restarting Safely in the New Year

Powering Systems Back Up

Create a plan for safely restarting equipment to avoid surges or malfunctions. Consult equipment manuals or specialists for tailored advice.

Schedule Maintenance and Inspections

Use the return period to conduct routine maintenance, ensuring systems are in top condition for the year ahead.

Set 2025 Energy Goals

Use insights from your Christmas power-down to identify your base load and set energy reduction targets for the new year. Establish realistic goals, track progress, and adjust strategies to maximise savings and sustainability.

Need Help? Contact Flame Energy

Whether you need advice on reducing energy consumption, installing smart meters, or planning sustainable energy solutions, Flame Energy is here to help. Reach out to our expert team and start saving today.

This Christmas, let’s power down responsibly to save energy, reduce costs, and support a greener future.