Energy rates across Australia are continuing to rise, leaving many businesses worried about their outgoings. Fortunately, there are a few small IT hacks you can try that can make a big difference.
Between 2021 and 2022, the average small business here in Australia saw their energy bills rise by over $1000. And with continuing volatility in the sector – caused by both COVID-19-related supply chain issues and ongoing unrest in Ukraine – it’s estimated that prices will keep on increasing. Experts predict that, over the next few months, energy rates could grow by an additional 20% – 25%. As you can probably imagine, energy price satisfaction among Australian businesses is in huge decline.
The good news, however, is that progress is being made. From this month, one million small businesses are eligible for the Energy Price Relief Rebate. But with more than a third of Australian businesses reporting ‘energy hardship’, it’s clear that more needs to be done to resolve the situation.
So what can be done? Well, there are quite a few ways that we can all work to make a difference in our own working environments. Here are our top 4 simple IT hacks that could help you save money:
1. Invest in efficiency
If you’re providing your employees with laptops for them to carry out their tasks, then you’re already on the right track, with laptops consuming 90% less energy than desktops. But it’s important to remember that not all laptop devices were made equal. For example, devices running on Google’s ChromeOS can use 46% less energy than others, due to their strong power management capabilities.
2. Embrace IoT
The Internet of Things, or IoT, is based on the basic concept of ‘if this, then this’, powering a new generation of smart devices that can regulate themselves in response to certain triggers. For example, by selecting a smart, tech-driven thermostat that automatically adjusts heating and cooling based on real temperatures, businesses could massively reduce the amount of energy they waste.
3. Shift to the cloud
If you’ve been on the fence about migrating from on-premises servers to the cloud, then now is the time to make the change. Why? Because the cloud ensures that employees can access what they need to work productively from anywhere, facilitating successful remote working. With fewer workers in the office, there are fewer devices to power… and far less hot water needed for cups of tea!
4. Reduce phantom energy loss
Many of us think that we’re being green by placing devices into standby mode when we leave the office. But these devices can consume energy, even when they’re not being used. It’s known as ‘phantom energy loss’, and it’s estimated to cost around $200 per year. Switching off devices at the end of the work day seems too simple to be an ‘IT hack’, but it really could be key to slashing bills.
The energy crisis in Australia is sparking a very worrying time for all of us. And while it is hoped that rates will drop in the future, we don’t have to wait that long to start taking action. These simple IT hacks may seem small in the grand scheme of things, but they could make a big difference to your outgoings. For more help using IT and technology to save money, get in touch with our team.
