Powering back up after lockdown isn’t as straightforward as it sounds.
In March 2020, manufacturers began to shift operations in response to COVID-19, with measures taken across Australia to reduce on site occupancy.
Now, as state governments ease restrictions, you might be thinking about resuming business as usual.
But before you do, there are some important things you should be aware of to reduce your energy costs and avoid additional charges.
Below are some quick and easy tips to help your business power up operations back to normal.
Start on the front foot
If you are still on partial or total lock-down, this is a great opportunity to revisit your processes and consider energy efficiency upgrades or a new energy contract.
Consider an energy agreement that connects you with the true price of energy so that you can align your operations with times when energy is cheaper.
Get the timing right
Powering up during times of high demand puts a strain on the energy system and can lead to higher energy costs.
Even though you may be powering back up to normal levels, you may need to pay increased tariffs due to the demand you’re putting on the system.
Some equipment takes longer to start up, so start early, even up to 24 hours prior to resuming operations or opening your doors.
Automating your processes after a partial shutdown can help too. This might include setting timers for recharging equipment, like forklifts, overnight.
Know your operations
Start with business critical operations and work your way towards full operations.
If you partially shut down, consider a stepped plan that coordinates operational processes with equipment being turned back on.
Take it easy with lighting
Your first instinct might be to turn on all of your lights, but lights can be a major energy drain.
When powering back up to full capacity, only light the areas you need and switch to energy-efficient lighting like LEDs and CLFs.
Turn on illuminated signs when manufacturing and prioritise signs required for safety and legal purposes to comply with any regulations, particularly in areas that are ramping up again.
Watch your temperature
Start in small increments when putting heating and air conditioning back on. This allows equipment to build up to a set temperature point.
When possible, turning the air conditioning or heating off for the last hour of each workday can help avoid unnecessary costs.
Get ready for the future
If your energy agreement is up for renewal, use this time to look for a more flexible solution.
Energy rates have fallen to four year lows so choose a solution that reflects this change.
If you want to make the most of prices continuing to fall in the future, consider a plan that allows you to move to the new lower rate.
Get Power Active
If you’re looking for a flexible energy plan that connects you with the real price of energy and allows you to make the most of falling energy rates — it’s time to get Power Active.
Visit the Flow Power website to find out about the ways Power Active is helping Australian businesses save on energy costs. Click here.