Focus on Energy: Take five this summer with energy saving tips from Focus on Energy

MEDIA CONTACT:

Mark Treichel

Hoffman York

(414) 225-9554

mtreichel@hyc.com

– Boost your bottom line while cutting energy bills –

MADISON, Wis. (May 19, 2010) – Are businesses beating the heat – and the bills – this summer? Big and small, businesses across the state are looking for ways to save money and reduce energy bills. Fortunately, Focus on Energy, Wisconsin’s statewide program for energy efficiency and renewable energy, has five fast and effective tips that will have businesses saving energy and money without breaking a sweat.

Turn it off! Turn off lights, equipment, and computers when they are not needed and take advantage of natural daylight whenever possible. During the work day businesses can set an energy saving “sleep mode” on computers and other equipment; and install timers to turn the lights off automatically for staff.

Install a setback thermostat or energy management system. Businesses can save two percent on air conditioning costs for each degree a thermostat is raised. Instead of adjusting the thermostat manually, make sure to install a system that will automatically manage a building’s temperature. If a system is already in place, make sure it is programmed correctly to achieve maximum savings.

Maintain heating, ventilation, and air conditioning equipment regularly. Businesses can cut up to 40 percent of energy use by having HVAC systems serviced regularly and air filters changed monthly. Don’t forget to keep the space around the system clean to prevent debris from being pulled into the burners and filters.

Purchase energy-efficient equipment and lighting. When it comes time to replace equipment, look for the ENERGY STAR® label as a guide. For lighting, install compact fluorescent bulbs for task lighting and high-performance T8 or pulse start metal halide systems for larger applications. Lighting control systems can also lead to significant savings.

Take advantage of Focus on Energy. We’re a great resource for free technical expertise and financial incentives on projects ranging from energy-efficient lighting, HVAC equipment, IT solutions, and more! Call 800.762.7077 today for a one-stop connection to some of the best energy management assistance in the state.

Focus on Energy can help businesses and residents across the state identify and evaluate energy-saving opportunities, provide specific recommendations, develop energy management plans, arrange technical training opportunities about energy conservation, and offer financial incentives.

For more information, call 800.762.7077 or visit focusonenergy.com .

About Focus on Energy

Focus on Energy works with eligible Wisconsin residents and businesses to install cost-effective energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. Focus information, resources, and financial incentives help to implement projects that otherwise would not be completed, or to complete projects sooner than scheduled. Its efforts help Wisconsin residents and businesses manage rising energy costs, promote in-state economic development, protect our environment, and control the state’s growing demand for electricity and natural gas. For more information, call 800.762.7077 or visit focusonenergy.com .