Getting Started with Few Hassles

As the saying goes, "time is money" and that can be particularly true for small businesses. However, not taking time (to save energy) can mean big money lost.

Reduction in daily energy costs and monthly utility bills for the lifetime of your business can make it well worth the time needed to pursue effective-efficiency upgrades. Here are some strategies to jump-start your energy savings:

• Ask your utility if they offer free or inexpensive energy audits and/or rebates for energy-efficiency upgrades. A good place to start is the Energy Crossroads - a consolidated listing, by state, of many of the utility energy-efficiency programs available for small businesses.

• Invite contractors to your facility to suggest upgrades and provide free estimates.

• Contract with an energy professional to coordinate and manage your project.

• Leverage your time by drawing on the expertise of ENERGY STAR.

Small manufacturers who are interested in a facility audit may also want to check out the following:

• Industrial Assessment Centers (IACs)

Provides eligible small- and medium-sized manufacturers with no-cost energy assessments. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy, Industrial Technologies Program.

• Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP)

Provides customized technical assistance programs to manufacturers in the areas of process improvement, supply chain management, and business operations. Programs include assistance with implementing energy saving measures in the manufacturing process. Sponsored by the National Institute of Standards and Technology.

Create a Green Workplace

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

• Workplace Guide to Energy Efficiency

Learn how to more your workplace energy efficient

• Pollution Prevention Guide

Small business guide to waste management and pollution prevention

• Recycling Electronics

Get info about recycling electronic wastes