Your carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases (including carbon dioxide and methane) that are generated by your business activities. These could include everything from heating your building and operating equipment, to making deliveries. While it's hard to completely eliminate the traces your business leaves on the environment, there are steps you can take to reduce the size of your footprint.
Use energy more efficiently
This is your first step in any effort to reduce emissions and do business more sustainably. Start simple with conservation actions, such as turning off lights and equipment when not in use. Next, implement smart energy-saving measures and upgrades that target some of the biggest energy users in your building.
- Hire a qualified professional to inspect and clean your heating and cooling system at least once per year.
- If your HVAC systems are older or in need of repair, upgrade them to a new, energy-efficient model.
- Make sure your building is properly sealed and insulated to increase occupant comfort and reduce HVAC energy use.
- Replace older lighting systems with high-efficiency LEDs and controls. Affordable LED retrofit kits are available.
We can help you review strategies for improved energy efficiency with an energy audit. Sign up online for a free consultation.
Electrify your fleet
If your business has fleet vehicles, making the switch to electric vehicles (EVs) is another key step in your journey to sustainability. EVs produce no tailpipe emissions, helping to make your community healthier, safer and cleaner.
While upgrading your fleet can be expensive, you can do it slowly as vehicles age or need extensive repair. Federal tax credits of up $7,500 are also available for eligible vehicles. For charging stations, your business may also be eligible for tax credits of up to 30% of the total cost of equipment and installation, subject to a limit of $100,000.
We Energies offers an EV charging pilot program for businesses. Learn how we can help your business offset the upfront costs associated with installing EV charging stations for your fleet.
Invest in renewables
Installing clean renewable energy systems, such as rooftop solar panels or a small wind turbine, on your property can significantly reduce your energy costs and your carbon footprint. Although installing renewable energy onsite can be expensive, federal tax credits are available that cover up to 30% of the cost of installing solar, wind and other renewable energy systems.
Another option is to purchase renewable energy. Our program, Energy for Tomorrow, lets you purchase electricity from renewable resources such as wind and solar. Review the program details for all the ways you can participate.