At home, you might think about your energy use more than you would at work. Your rules about lights left on or thermostat settings for your family don't seem to apply as you leave for the day with devices and lights still on. Energy-saving practices are just as important in the office as they are at home.

Whether a small business setting, common office space or large factory, each have energy-saving possibilities. These can be done individually or as a collective team - and most can be very simple. In fact, some take no effort and can be done after you've left for the day, including:

• Importance of sleep. Using the sleep setting feature on devices can significantly lower the amount of power used, essentially putting it in standby mode. Compared to a full device shutdown, sleep mode also allows for a faster return to function, keeping productivity intact. Consider using this setting for office computers, tablets and televisions.
• Energy-savings in motion. Installing motion sensors help save energy by lessening the time lights are left on. Sensors automatically turn lights on only when needed, or motion is sensed, preventing lights left on in an empty space for extended periods. If the sensors detect no movement, the lights are turned off.
• Maintenance is key. Prevent equipment from working harder, and using more energy, by scheduling regular maintenance. An HVAC system, for example, requires regular cleaning or replacement of air filters and a check to make sure all vents are open for air flow. Consider I&M’s Midstream program, which helps customers upgrade to energy-efficient HVAC at a more affordable price - while boosting your bottom line.
• Power of hybrid cooling. Keep an office cool, while saving energy. This technique pairs using an air conditioner, set to a temperature slightly warmer than normal, and basic fans, which require much less energy to operate. Also consider raising the building’s temperature in the evening, when everyone has left. This prevents unnecessary cooling of an empty space and lowers energy use. Return the setting back to its standard temperature once employees return to the office the next day.

For additional energy-saving tips, rebates and energy management tools, head to ElectricIdeas.com/Work. Stay ahead on energy-saving ideas with I&M’s Energy Solutions Newsletter. Inscríbase (link at the bottom of the page) to receive this monthly communication straight to your inbox and get a jumpstart on your energy-saving goals.