- Each SME could pay more than £90 a year just to run a single computer, report says
- Most workers leave their devices on, even when they are not present
- This could be the perfect opportunity to upgrade with energy-efficient technology.
Although many companies have largely strengthened return-to-office policies, many are still struggling with higher-than-average energy bills due to worker behavior, according to new research.
Uswitch’s study reveals that using a single computer can cost more than £90 a year for SMEs, with workers doing little to help when it comes to saving electricity.
About a fifth of workers admit they leave their laptops, desktops and monitors on simply because they don’t have to pay energy bills.
Worker habits are driving up office energy bills
However, this is not just an everyday habit. A quarter leave them on during vacations or extended closures, 22% rarely or never turn off their monitor when they are away for long periods, and 21% rarely or never put their computer to sleep when it is not active.
On the other hand, the number of workers who make proactive and energy-conscious decisions is low. Only about a third adjust the screen brightness to reduce power consumption.
Business energy expectations Ben Gallizzi urges companies to conduct a business energy audit to identify where electricity is wasted as a starting point. From there they have several routes.
In addition to replacing older, energy-efficient devices, SMBs must educate staff and refine policies and worker expectations. “Opportunities exist for business owners and leaders to better communicate energy policies and the benefits of reducing energy for both sustainable and financial purposes,” he wrote.
They can also try to reduce bills by finding other suppliers with lower unit rates. Commercial renewal windows are generally up to six months before the contract end date, Gallizzi explained.
Even combined, these changes may not make a big impact on your energy bills, but in today’s cash-strapped economy, every savings adds up.
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