July 18, 2011
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Whether or not you’re a fervent global warming believer, there are several compelling business reasons why you should become greener. The most compelling? Doing so will put money in your pocket.
Cost savings
Being more energy efficient will reduce your utility bills. Savings can be significant. Lighting accounts for about 30 percent of commercial utility costs, so implementing energy-saving fixtures, bulbs, and other cost-saving measures (such as turning off lights and equipment when not in use) can pay off.
Merely adjusting the thermostat can create savings in heating and cooling your facility. The typical summertime setting is 78 degrees. By raising the thermostat 2 degrees, you can reap a 2 percent savings on air conditioning reflected in your utility bill. By contrast, a setting of 75 degrees will cost you 3 percent more.
Check with your utility company to determine what programs may be available to help you. There may be:
- Energy audits—free or low cost—to determine what changes are recommended for cost savings.
- Rebates for switching to energy-saving fluorescent fixtures and bulbs.
- Grants to pay for energy-related improvements.
- Special financing programs to make certain energy improvements
Figure your utility cost reductions from changing to energy-saving fluorescent bulbs using an online calculator from Sylvania. There’s also an Energy Star calculator (Excel spreadsheet) for changing the bulbs in your exit signs.
Tax savings
There are some federal tax breaks to reward businesses for going green. A couple to consider:
- A deduction through 2013 for businesses that own their properties just for being energy-efficient
Keep in mind that capital purchases in 2011 may qualify for 100 bonus depreciation, which means that the entire cost can be deducted up front. If your business buys more energy-efficient air conditioners now to replace old clunkers, the cost can be fully deducted this year. Energy Star now provides ratings for office equipment, such as copiers, printers, and water coolers.
The IRS isn’t the only one to dole out tax breaks for businesses that go green. States may also offer a variety of business-related incentives, including deductions, credits, sales tax savings, property tax reductions, and more. For information about state tax incentives to further your energy-efficiency policy, go to the Database for State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE).
Check with your tax advisor to learn which breaks may be beneficial to your business.
Marketing edge
If you incorporate energy-saving practices into your business, you may be able to use this to a marketing advantage. Architects, home builders, and contractors that use green practices in the design, construction, and operation of buildings may qualify for certification from the U.S. Green Building Council, called LEED—classification as a green builder or green building owner may be highly attractive to customers.
Other certification resources applicable to small businesses include:
Learn more about green certification and ecolabeling from the SBA.
Final word
At a time when many small businesses continue to struggle with profitability, going green may offer an important financial edge. Using less electricity, taking advantage of tax breaks, and incorporating green practices into your marketing can contribute to a better bottom line.
Check your balance, review recent transactions and pay your bill on the go.
STEFAN SEUSS 10 months ago
Great article, thank you! In addition, I would like to direct your attention to a new lighting technology that saves you up to 75% lighting and 15% a/c energy instantly. Check out the labor-free Express T5 Retrofit Kit from LUXADD. It’s smart and simple!www.luxadd.com