Even if you lease your space and your utility bills are included with the rent, these low-cost steps are still worth your time because they can enhance the comfort and appearance of your space.

Lighting
Eliminate unneeded lights. More light isn’t necessarily better. It’s important to create contrast and to focus on certain areas to capture shoppers’ attention.

Use ENERGY STAR® compact fluorescent lights to replace incandescent lights. For a “color temperature” similar to incandescent bulbs, look for bulbs labeled “warm light” or that are marked with a 2700 K to 3000 K color temperature rating on the package or bulb base. The color of light is related by degrees Kelvin — the lower the Kelvin temperature, the warmer the light.

Studies show that daylighting — through windows and skylights — can help increase sales.

Learn more about lighting.

• Install ENERGY STAR® programmable thermostats. Set at 68 degrees for heating; 75 degrees for cooling. Use the night setback feature for additional savings.
• Keep windows and doors closed when running heating and AC.
• Install awnings, window shades or window film to reduce solar gain and minimize the need for cooling. This is particularly effective in older buildings.
• Weatherproof doors and windows to seal air leaks.
• Schedule regular maintenance on HVAC systems.
• Regularly check and clean HVAC filters, condenser and evaporator coils to keep them running efficiently.
• Learn more about heating and cooling.

• Choose ENERGY STAR® office equipment and appliances.
• Use “sleep” functions on computers, printers and copiers; turn off completely at night and if they won’t be used for several hours.
• Reduce “vampire” loads that waste energy: unplug equipment that is not needed or used infrequently. A single piece of equipment may not amount to much energy consumption, but these loads can add up.

Training
Involve your staff in saving energy. Train them that everyday behavior, such as turning off unneeded lights and equipment, can make a big difference for the bottom line. It helps to set goals, track energy bills and share success with staff.

How PGE can help
Check out the PGE class schedule to take advantage of a variety of courses to enhance business practices and get expert advice on how to save energy and money.

Contact the PGE Business Services team to arrange for a free PGE energy-efficiency consultation. This process can often be quickly accomplished over the over the phone. We can also provide a third-party technical review of improvements you are considering.

Use PGE’s energy monitoring services to track your energy use and bills for a clear picture of where your dollars are going and where you can save. This includes monthly, daily and customer reporting options that help you pinpoint problems and identify key opportunities for improving energy-efficiency.

For outdoor lighting, use photosensors or timers and switch to high-pressure sodium, pulse-start metal halide or induction (QL) lamps. PGE lighting services offers many options.