More building owners have made it a priority to cut back on energy usage – and facility managers are increasingly the professionals tasked with identifying cost saving opportunities. It would appear that at least on some level, these efforts have been a success, as a new study shows many energy users have limited their consumption habits.
During the economic recession, businesses and consumers had all the motivation they could possibly need to cut back on energy usage. With money difficult to come by, these parties sought to limit excessive waste wherever possible.
However, even as the economy has rebounded, with more businesses and consumers spending generously on key areas, energy usage remains dialed back.
Deloitte found businesses have cut back energy consumption an average 25 percent over a three-to-four year period. In addition, 83 percent of consumers surveyed said they made it a point to lower their energy bills while 93 percent intend to maintain reduced energy consumption habits.
"The recession is profoundly changing energy habits for both businesses and consumers," said Greg Aliff, one of the survey's authors, in a press release accompanying the data. "Using less may be the new normal, from boardroom tables to the kitchen tables."
Facility managers have been at the forefront of many businesses' attempts to become more energy efficient, and the use of CMMS software could further these professionals' efforts to cut back on energy usage. For example, preventative maintenance software could ensure businesses are constantly checking on vital equipment. As a result, this machinery can be optimized to run more effectively, thus cutting down on excess energy or fuel usage and helping companies save on the bottom line.
No related posts.