Energy-saving advice for the public sector
Optimal temperatures in public sector spaces
Effective heating and insulation strategies
- Set thermostats to lower temperatures during non-working hours to save energy.
- Use programmable thermostats to adjust temperatures based on occupancy.
- Ensure windows and doors are sealed to prevent heat loss.
- Regularly service heating systems to maintain efficiency and prevent energy waste.
- Insulate walls and roofs to reduce the need for excessive heating and cooling.
- Avoid using space heaters unless absolutely necessary, as they are inefficient and increase energy consumption.
Ways to save on lighting
- LED bulbs use up to 80% less energy and last 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs.
- Regularly clean light fixtures as dust can block light and force you to use higher wattage, wasting energy.
- Maximise daylight by positioning workstations near windows or skylights, reducing the need for artificial lighting.
- Use motion sensors for lighting in hallways, toilets and storage areas. They can lead to energy savings of up to 30% to 50% in commercial buildings.
- Implement a lighting monitoring system to identify areas where energy savings can be achieved.
| Location | Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|---|
| Schools | - Empower students to lead energy-saving initiatives through classroom challenges and eco-friendly school campaigns. | - Don’t block radiators with desks or chairs, as this traps heat and reduces heating efficiency. |
| - Turn off classroom projectors, computers, and smartboards when not in use for long periods. | - Don’t leave hallway lights on after school hours or during breaks. | |
| Care Homes | - Let natural daylight into resident rooms by opening blinds during the day to reduce energy use. | - Don’t leave medical equipment, computers or lights running in resident rooms when not in use. |
| - Turn off lights in unoccupied resident rooms and hallways after hours. | - Don’t block radiators or vents in resident rooms with furniture or equipment, as it disrupts airflow. | |
| Local Government | - Use natural light in staff offices to minimise the use of artificial lighting. | - Don’t leave office lights on when the room is empty, even if it’s for a short time. |
| - Turn off computers, printers and monitors at the end of the workday or when not in use. | - Don’t leave office equipment plugged in and running unnecessarily, especially during lunch breaks. |
