Office Equipment

 
 
 

Office Equipment and Small Power Loads

Office equipment and small power machines (PCs, monitors, fax machines, photocopiers, printers, vending machines and water coolers) are the fastest growing users of energy in the business world, accounting for 15% of all electrical energy used in UK offices. This is expected to double by 2020.
 

Using such equipment doesn’t just raise energy consumption; it can make work areas uncomfortably hot, increasing the need for cooling, which increases costs further.

The growth of office equipment is not simply confined to offices; most organisations will be noticing an increase in the volume of office equipment installed. Managing these facilities effectively can reduce their energy consumption (and therefore cost) by up to 70%, often at little or no extra cost.

About the technology

There are many PCs, fax machines, photocopiers, printers and monitors available, and a wide range of energy use amongst the differing products.

Control and housekeeping

Using office equipment only when required and providing adequate control is the best way to save money and reduce energy consumption.

Making use of your staff

Office equipment energy use comprises large numbers of relatively small power loads. This means that in order to achieve maximum energy savings, everyone will need to be engaged in the process.

More efficient equipment

Consider positioning printers and copiers in either a naturally ventilated area with good airflow, or in a cool area to reduce air conditioning costs. Keeping equipment clean and maintained reduces energy costs and extends the working life of equipment. Finally, when buying equipment, choose low energy versions. They don’t compromise the quality of a product, and keep saving throughout the equipment’s lifetime.

Key links

Links to associated websites and details of key publications.

 
 

Office Equipment

 
 
 
 
 
 

Did You Know...

 
 
 
 
Electricity consumed due to office equipment in the UK already costs £300 million each year and is rapidly increasing.
 
 

Fact

 
 
 
 
Electricity consumed due to office equipment in the UK already costs £300 million each year and is rapidly increasing.
 
 

Publications

 
 
 
 
Office equipment technology overview
This technical overview covers the range of office equipment usually found in offices, including computers, monitors, printers, fax machines, photocopiers vending and hot drinks machines. It consid…

Switch to saving DVD - Office equipment
This DVD provides tips on how you can save money and energy for your business by implementing simple, practical energy-saving measures in your office.

Office Equipment Fact Sheet
Office equipment is the fastest growing energy user in offices currently accounting for around 15% of total office energy consumption, but this is set to double by 2020. However, the growth of offi…