Commercial Sector
Big savings through no-cost and low-cost actions
Did you know an office building of average operating efficiency with 50,000 square feet of office space can reduce operating costs by $40,000 per year through no-cost and low-cost actions? Learn how your commercial building can save energy and money by browsing the resources found in this section.
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California businesses collectively spend more than $15 billion a year on heating, cooling, lighting and other energy uses. Much of this cost is unnecessary. While high and variable energy costs will continue to impact their bottom line, companies of all types and sizes can take action to reduce these impacts.
Organizations that implement energy-efficient measures outperform their competitors by as much as 10%. To remain profitable and gain a competitive edge, companies need to do more than just turn off unnecessary lights and adjust thermostats. They need to make energy efficiency an essential part of their business plan. By doing so, businesses lower their utility bills and help California ensure a reliable energy supply.
Commercial Energy End-Use Breakdown (2000)
For major investor-owned utility areas only. Found in "California Statewide Commercial Sector Energy Efficiency Potential Study," California Energy Commission, July 9, 2002, Study ID #SW039A, Final Report, Volume 1 of 2.
It Pays to be Energy Efficient
During 2001 and 2002, nearly one-third of California businesses cut overall energy use by at least 20%, saving California companies millions of dollars. Over the next decade, California could realistically and cost-effectively reduce its peak electricity needs by 5,900 Megawatts (MW), saving businesses and residents an estimated $12 billion.
Roche, for example, was able to reduce electricity use by 16% and natural gas use by 23% in its Palo Alto facility through a series of energy efficiency improvements in 2001. In 2002 and 2003, Flex Your Power honored businesses throughout the state that demonstrated outstanding leadership in energy conservation and efficiency. Award winners included Boston Properties, Bank of America, Philips Lighting and Home Depot.
Invest in Energy Efficiency Now
There are many opportunities to save energy and money in commercial buildings by an estimated 30% in many facilities. High-performance design and the use of energy-efficient technologies can reduce energy costs in new buildings by 50% every year.
Key energy investment strategies for commercial buildings:
- Increase the efficiency of technology and equipment.
- Improve the design and efficiency of the overall building system.
- Introduce energy management and controls.
- Introduce efficiencies in building maintenance.
This website contains many resources to help you upgrade your facility with energy-efficient equipment and building retrofits. If you are building a new facility, we can help you understand the benefits of building a facility that goes beyond Title 24 and other codes and standards.
Take advantage of Flex Your Power's Best Practices Guides and Tips. We can also help you find Rebates, Incentives & Services available to you through utilities and private and public sector companies.