Lower Energy Cost Hospitality with Decarbonization

Hotels are huge energy users – with a lot of guests that come and go quickly, keeping them comfortable is no small task. As we look ahead at decarbonization – is it possible to integrate decarbonization into a sustainability strategy for hotels?

The answer is yes – you can remove the natural gas from heating and cooling for hotels by using heat pumps. Heat pumps are not only more than 400% more efficient that traditional natural gas heating – but they are also better at heating different rooms to different levels. And a heat pump water heater can do the same for your hotel – heating water without using natural gas for no local emissions and quickly lowering emissions depending on your local electricity source.

And new on the scene for hotels in the past few years – electric vehicle chargers for hotel guests. While this doesn’t directly lower the energy costs for a building, it does provide a huge value add to your guests and can generate profit for your hotel.

How Heat Pumps are Revolutionizing Hotel Sustainability

The hospitality industry is under increasing pressure to reduce its environmental impact. One area ripe for change is the way hotels heat and cool their buildings. Traditional furnaces and air conditioners, often powered by fossil fuels, release harmful greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere. Here’s where heat pumps emerge as a game-changer for hotel decarbonization.

Heat pumps are incredibly versatile machines. Unlike traditional systems that generate heat or coolth, heat pumps can do both. They work by transferring existing thermal energy from one place to another. In heating mode, they extract heat from the outside air, even in cold weather, and concentrate it to warm the building interior. In cooling mode, they reverse the process, extracting heat from inside and releasing it outdoors.

This ability to move existing heat makes heat pumps significantly more efficient than traditional systems. They use electricity to power the transfer process, and depending on the local electricity grid, this electricity can come from renewable sources like solar or wind power. This significantly reduces the hotel’s reliance on fossil fuels and lowers its carbon footprint.

The benefits of heat pumps extend beyond environmental impact. Their efficient operation translates to lower energy bills for hotels. Additionally, heat pumps offer superior comfort compared to traditional systems. They provide consistent and even temperatures throughout the space, eliminating hot or cold spots often experienced with furnaces and air conditioners. This translates to a more enjoyable experience for guests.

Installing heat pumps does require an upfront investment. However, government incentives and rebates are often available to offset the cost. Additionally, the long-term savings on energy bills make heat pumps a cost-effective solution in the long run.

As the hospitality industry strives towards a more sustainable future, heat pumps offer a compelling solution. Their efficiency, environmental benefits, and ability to enhance guest comfort make them a key technology for hotel decarbonization. With increasing adoption, heat pumps have the potential to revolutionize the way hotels operate, creating a win-win situation for both the environment and the bottom line.

Tapping into Efficiency: How Hotels can Leverage Heat Pump Water Heaters

Hotels face a constant demand for hot water, from guest showers and laundry facilities to dishwashing in kitchens. Traditionally, this burden has been met by conventional water heaters, often powered by gas or electricity. However, a new wave of technology is offering a more sustainable and cost-effective solution: heat pump water heaters.

Heat pump water heaters function differently from their conventional counterparts. Instead of directly generating heat through combustion or electrical resistance, they act like heat transfer specialists. They capture ambient heat from the surrounding air, even at moderate temperatures, and concentrate it to heat the water stored in the tank. This innovative approach utilizes existing thermal energy, significantly boosting efficiency compared to traditional methods.

The environmental benefits of heat pump water heaters are undeniable. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels, hotels can dramatically lower their carbon footprint. This not only aligns with growing sustainability initiatives but can also attract eco-conscious guests seeking environmentally responsible lodging options.

Beyond environmental advantages, heat pump water heaters offer hotels significant cost savings. Their efficient operation translates to lower energy bills, especially in locations with favorable climates that provide consistent ambient heat for transfer. This translates to a positive impact on the hotel’s bottom line over the long term.

While upfront installation costs for heat pump water heaters might be higher than traditional models, government incentives and rebates are often available to ease the financial burden. Additionally, the long-term energy savings often outweigh the initial investment, making heat pump water heaters a financially sound choice for hotels.

Integrating heat pump water heaters seamlessly into existing hotel infrastructure is crucial. Depending on the hotel’s layout and hot water needs, various configurations are possible. In some cases, a single large unit can be installed to meet the entire building’s demand. Alternatively, a distributed system with multiple smaller units located throughout the hotel might be a better fit. Qualified engineers can assess a hotel’s specific needs and recommend the optimal configuration.

By embracing heat pump water heater technology, hotels can unlock a path towards a more sustainable and cost-effective future. The environmental benefits, coupled with significant energy savings, make a compelling case for adopting this innovative solution. As hotels strive to meet the demands of a changing world, heat pump water heaters offer a powerful tool to reduce their environmental impact and improve their financial standing.

Power Up Your Business: Why Electric Car Chargers Attract Guests and Boost Profits

The electric vehicle (EV) revolution is well underway, and the hospitality industry has an opportunity to ride the wave. Installing electric car chargers at your hotel isn’t just about environmental responsibility; it’s a smart business decision that can attract new guests, boost revenue, and enhance your brand image.

Firstly, electric car chargers cater to a growing market. As EV adoption continues to accelerate, more and more travelers will be on the road with electric vehicles. By offering charging facilities, your hotel becomes an attractive pit stop for these eco-conscious guests. They’ll be more likely to choose your establishment over competitors who lack this essential amenity, particularly for longer journeys where charging is crucial.

I personally drive a Plug In Electric Vehicle (PHEV) and have started to notice chargers available at more and more hotels. In fact, last weekend I stayed a hotel for a family event and noticed the hotel next to me had a charger, while my hotel did not. I would have not had to stop for gas on my trip home if I had stayed in the hotel with a charger, and would have paid a decent amount for that convenience. In fact, a hotel can charge up to 10x what they pay for electricity to guests and still get a positive review on the experience.

Offering EV charging can also translate to increased revenue. You have the option to provide charging as a complimentary service, a paid add-on, or a combination of both. Even with a fee, guests are likely to appreciate the convenience and be willing to pay for the peace of mind of knowing their car can be charged overnight. Additionally, guests who spend more time at your hotel due to charging needs are more likely to spend money on other amenities like dining or spa services.

Furthermore, installing EV chargers positions your hotel as a leader in sustainability. Consumers are increasingly environmentally conscious, and choosing hotels with eco-friendly practices is a priority for many. By demonstrating a commitment to sustainability through EV charging, you can attract guests who value environmental responsibility and enhance your brand image as a forward-thinking establishment.

EV charging can also extend your reach beyond overnight stays. Consider offering public charging services for a fee. This attracts local EV owners who may patronize your hotel restaurant or bar while their car charges. This not only generates additional revenue but also increases foot traffic and potential new customers.

The upfront cost of installing EV chargers might seem like a barrier. However, government incentives and rebates are often available to offset the initial investment. Additionally, the long-term revenue potential and positive brand image associated with EV charging make it a worthwhile investment for the future.

In conclusion, Heat Pumps for HVAC and water heaters, along with electric car chargers are no longer just a convenience for guests; they’re a strategic business decision. By catering to the growing market for social conscious guests, generating additional revenue streams, and promoting a sustainable brand image, hotels can leverage heat pumps and EV charging to gain a competitive edge and thrive in the evolving travel landscape.

Want to explore options for your hotel for improved energy efficiency? It all starts with a free energy efficiency assessment for your hotel to save money, bring in new guests, and find additional revenue streams.

Why Your Manufacturing Facility Should Already Be LED

In the dynamic landscape of modern manufacturing, where efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness are paramount, the adoption of LED lighting stands as a transformative step towards a brighter future. LED technology has revolutionized the illumination industry, offering a plethora of advantages over traditional lighting options, making it an indispensable choice for manufacturing facilities seeking to enhance their operations, optimize energy consumption, and minimize environmental impact.

Energy Savings: A Path to Financial Sustainability in Manufacturing

At the heart of LED’s appeal lies its unparalleled energy efficiency. Compared to traditional incandescent and fluorescent lighting, LEDs consume significantly less electricity, resulting in substantial cost savings over time. A study by the U.S. Department of Energy estimates that switching to LEDs can reduce lighting energy consumption by up to 50%. For manufacturing facilities operating around the clock, this translates into significant financial savings that can be reinvested into other areas of business growth.

Enhanced Productivity: Illuminating the Path to Success in Manufacturing

LED lighting’s impact extends beyond energy savings, positively influencing worker productivity and safety. The superior quality of LED illumination provides a more natural and consistent light, reducing eye strain and fatigue, thereby enhancing worker focus and concentration. This, in turn, leads to improved accuracy, reduced errors, and increased productivity. Additionally, LED lighting’s ability to accurately render colors is crucial in manufacturing processes that demand precise color differentiation, ensuring product quality and consistency.

Environmental Stewardship: A Manufacturing Commitment to a Sustainable Future

In an era of growing environmental consciousness, LED lighting emerges as a beacon of sustainability. LEDs, unlike traditional lighting options, do not contain hazardous materials such as mercury, minimizing the risk of environmental contamination. Moreover, their extended lifespan of up to 50,000 hours reduces the frequency of lamp replacements, thereby minimizing waste generation and resource consumption.

Manufacturing Safety and Durability: A Bastion of Reliability

Manufacturing environments often pose unique challenges for lighting systems. LEDs, with their exceptional durability and resistance to vibration and shock, are well-suited to withstand the rigors of industrial settings. They generate minimal heat, reducing the risk of fire hazards and contributing to a safer work environment.

Cost-Effectiveness: A Long-Term Manufacturing Investment

While the initial cost of LED lighting may be higher than traditional options, the long-term financial benefits far outweigh the upfront investment. The substantial energy savings, reduced maintenance requirements, and extended lifespan of LED lighting translate into significant cost savings over time. Additionally, government incentives and rebates often exist to encourage the adoption of LED technology, making the transition even more cost-effective.

Reduced Maintenance in Manufacturing

In a recent assessment at a manufacturing facility, they were only able to shut down their manufacturing line safely once a month for a few hours. This provided a very difficult window to do lighting maintenance, which was often needed with their outdated lighting.

LED lighting lasts longer than fluorescent or high intensity discharge lighting. Modern systems can last 70,000 hours or longer – meaning less ballast changes and less interruption in production to maintain lighting. These benefits are in addition to the clear energy savings available with LED as compared to previous lighting system technologies.

Conclusion: Illuminating the Path to a Brighter Future

As manufacturing facilities strive to navigate the complexities of the modern business landscape, the adoption of LED lighting stands as a strategic decision with far-reaching benefits. By embracing energy efficiency, enhancing productivity, promoting sustainability, ensuring safety, and realizing long-term cost-effectiveness, LED lighting empowers manufacturing facilities to illuminate the path to a brighter future, one characterized by operational excellence, environmental stewardship, and financial prosperity. The time to embrace LED lighting is now, as it represents a transformative step towards a more sustainable, efficient, and successful future for manufacturing facilities worldwide.

Please set up an assessment to regain control of your building’s energy usage.

The Impact of Poor Building Controls on Your Bottom Line

In today’s business world, where every dollar counts, it is more important than ever to be mindful of expenses. One often-overlooked area where businesses can save money is through effective building control. Poor building controls can lead to a significant increase in energy consumption, maintenance costs, and occupant dissatisfaction, all of which can have a negative impact on your bottom line.

Buildings energy usage can be controlled by a Building Automation System, or even a simple smart thermostat system. Both have their usages, and both prevent money from flowing outside of your windows and doors.

Increased Energy Consumption

One of the most immediate and noticeable impacts of poor building controls is increased energy consumption. Without proper controls, HVAC systems, lighting, and other energy-consuming equipment may operate inefficiently, leading to wasted energy and higher utility bills. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, poor building controls can account for up to 30% of a building’s energy consumption.

Higher Maintenance Costs

Poor building controls can also lead to higher maintenance costs. When equipment is not properly controlled, it is more likely to malfunction or break down, requiring more frequent repairs and replacements. Additionally, poorly maintained equipment often operates less efficiently, leading to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills.

Reduced Occupant Productivity

In addition to the financial costs, poor building controls can also have a negative impact on occupant productivity. When the indoor environment is uncomfortable or unhealthy, it can lead to decreased focus, increased absenteeism, and higher rates of employee turnover. A study by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) found that a comfortable indoor environment can improve employee productivity by up to 8%.

Reduced occupant productivity can have a significant impact on individuals, businesses, and the overall economy. Here are some of the potential consequences:

Individual Consequences:

• Increased stress and anxiety: When employees are unable to meet deadlines or complete tasks to their usual standards, it can lead to increased stress and anxiety. This can have a negative impact on their mental and physical health, leading to burnout, absenteeism, and even presenteeism (being physically present at work but not mentally engaged).
• Reduced job satisfaction: If employees feel like they are constantly struggling to keep up with their workload, it can lead to reduced job satisfaction. This can make it difficult to retain top talent and can also lead to higher turnover rates.
• Decreased morale: When morale is low, it can create a negative atmosphere in the workplace. This can make it difficult for employees to work together effectively and can also lead to increased conflict and absenteeism.

Business Consequences:

• Missed deadlines and lost opportunities: When employees are not productive, it can lead to missed deadlines and lost opportunities. This can damage a company’s reputation and make it difficult to compete in the marketplace.
• Increased costs: Reduced productivity can also lead to increased costs for businesses. For example, companies may need to hire additional employees to compensate for the lost productivity, or they may need to pay overtime to employees who are working to meet deadlines.
• Decreased profitability: Ultimately, reduced productivity can lead to decreased profitability for businesses. This can make it difficult for companies to invest in growth and innovation, and it can even put them at risk of bankruptcy.

Overall Economic Consequences:

• Reduced economic growth: When businesses are not productive, it can have a ripple effect on the overall economy. Reduced productivity can lead to slower economic growth, higher unemployment, and decreased tax revenue.
• Decreased competitiveness: In a global economy, it is important for businesses to be competitive. Reduced productivity can make it difficult for businesses to compete with companies from other countries that have a more productive workforce.
• Increased social costs: Reduced productivity can also lead to increased social costs. For example, when people are unemployed, they are more likely to rely on government assistance. This can put a strain on social programs and can lead to increased taxes for everyone.

Steps to Improve Building Controls

Fortunately, there are a number of steps that businesses can take to improve their building controls and reap the associated benefits. Some of the most effective measures include:

• Conducting a building energy audit: A building energy audit can identify areas where energy is being wasted and recommend specific measures for improvement.
• Installing energy-efficient equipment: Replacing old, inefficient equipment with energy-efficient models can significantly reduce energy consumption.
• Implementing occupancy sensors and timers: Occupancy sensors and timers can automatically turn off lights and other equipment when not in use, saving energy.
• Upgrading to a Building Automation System (BAS): A BAS can centrally control and monitor all of the building’s systems, optimizing energy usage and preventing equipment malfunctions.
• Regularly maintaining equipment: Regular maintenance can help to prevent equipment breakdowns and extend its lifespan.

Conclusion

The benefits of effective building controls are clear: lower energy costs, reduced maintenance expenses, and improved occupant productivity. By taking the necessary steps to improve their building controls, businesses can save money, improve their bottom line, and create a more comfortable and productive work environment for their employees. In today’s competitive business world, effective building control is not just a good idea, it is a necessity.

I hope this essay is helpful. Please set up an assessment to regain control of your building’s energy usage.

A Comprehensive Guide

Schools across Illinois are facing mounting pressure to reduce their energy consumption and environmental impact. With rising energy costs and increasing concerns about climate change, schools are seeking ways to become more energy efficient without compromising the comfort and safety of their students and staff. School boards are also being forced to do more with less resources, and saving energy expenditures is a very popular way to achieve this goal.

Fortunately, school energy efficiency is fairly straightforward, and most of the technology already exists to meet these goals for our schools. And, there are huge benefits in addition to energy efficiency such as improved lighting for learning for students, better air quality and health outcomes, and safety. Most of these improvements start with an energy efficiency assessment or audit, which can be provided for free through your utility or a local partner like Verde. These typically can be done in a single day to get a good baseline of energy usage, lighting and HVAC baselines, control strategies, and trending costs for electricity and natural gas.

The Importance of Energy Efficiency in Schools

There are many compelling reasons for schools to invest in energy efficiency measures. These measures can help schools:

• Save money: By reducing energy consumption, schools can save significant amounts of money on their utility bills. These savings can be used to fund other important school programs and initiatives. Less money on energy means more money for direct education spending for students and teachers.
• Reduce their environmental impact: Schools are major consumers of energy, and their energy use contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental problems. By becoming more energy efficient, schools can help to reduce their environmental footprint. Schools are also not typically going anywhere – the same building can sometimes remain for 50 – 100 years, so any investment into improving that building pays dividends for generations of students.
• Improve the learning environment: Studies have shown that a comfortable and healthy indoor environment can improve student learning and performance. Energy-efficient measures can help to create a more comfortable and healthy learning environment for students and staff. There are a lot of studies that connect poor lighting or comfort to poor learning outcomes.

How Can Illinois Schools Become More Energy Efficient?

There are many things that Illinois schools can do to become more energy efficient. Some of the most effective measures include:

• Upgrade lighting systems: Replacing old incandescent and fluorescent lights with LED lights can save schools a significant amount of energy. LED lights are also more durable and last longer than traditional lights. They are also quieter and provide better lighting to make spaces better for learning and teaching.
• Improve HVAC systems: HVAC systems are one of the largest energy consumers in schools. By upgrading to more efficient HVAC systems and implementing proper maintenance procedures, schools can save a significant amount of energy. And, running a compressor or boiler less also means less wear and tear and future maintenance costs, in addition to the energy savings.
• Implement energy management systems: Energy management systems (EMS) or Building Automation Systems (BAS) can help schools to monitor and control their energy use. EMS and BAS systems can be implemented or improved to identify energy-saving opportunities and automatically adjust energy consumption based on occupancy and other factors.
• Educate students and staff: Educating students and staff about energy conservation can help to raise awareness and encourage behavioral changes that can save energy. Schools can also implement incentive programs to encourage energy-saving behavior.

Financial Assistance for Energy Efficiency Projects

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) offers a variety of financial assistance programs to help schools implement energy efficiency projects. These programs can provide schools with grants, rebates, and low-interest loans.

Public and Private schools alike can participate in the Comed Energy Efficiency program, getting rebates to help offset the cost of the work they need to do to reduce energy. Lighting, HVAC and Control system incentives all exist and programs want and need to spend this money to help your school. Since there is a lot of research that goes into these programs on their savings – you can feel confident in the energy savings potential and calculations and share those with your board.

Do Public Schools or Private Schools Need to do Energy Efficiency Work

This is a trick question because both public and private schools need to do energy efficiency work.

Whatever school you work in, they all spend money on utility costs like electricity and natural gas. Some pay for the differently, either their own bill or a bill that is passed on to taxpayers. But all use utilities, and somehow they are paid for. Reducing that usage is good for the tax payers or private school boards and owners.

Private schools especially need to be competitive and no potential family wants to walk into a building with poor lighting or HVAC systems. It would show a lack of commitment to education – and make it difficult for them to spend money. Brighter lights, in our experience, leads to a better feeling when prospective students and parents enter a school. And a building that is too hot or too cold is also a clear sign to potential students that a building is not being maintained properly and they may conclude less investment in their child’s future.

Public boards have a greater responsibility to spend money in a thoughtful and impactful way, since they are tax payer dollars. Too often public schools do not do the work they need to do out of fear of Bidding or capital improvements. But holding off on moving forward only adds to the maintenance costs and puts off an eventual improvement in the schools lighting, HVAC or control system. And, today there is funding to help support these efforts and tomorrow there may not be – so it is important to be proactive on energy efficiency work.

Resources for Illinois Schools

There are a number of resources available to help Illinois schools become more energy efficient. These resources include:

• The Illinois Energy Efficiency Program: This program provides schools with information and resources on energy efficiency.
• The Illinois School Energy Efficiency Partnership: This partnership provides schools with technical assistance and financial support for energy efficiency projects.
• The Energy Efficiency Improvement Corporation of Illinois (EEIC): This organization provides schools with financing and other support for energy efficiency projects.

Advanced Energy Efficiency for Schools – Heat Pumps

Heat pumps are a viable and beneficial choice for schools in Illinois due to their numerous advantages:

Energy Efficiency: Heat pumps offer exceptional energy efficiency, consuming significantly less electricity than traditional heating and cooling systems. This translates into substantial cost savings for schools, allowing them to allocate resources to other important educational initiatives.

Environmental Friendliness: Heat pumps operate using electricity and ambient air or ground source, eliminating the need for fossil fuels like natural gas or propane. This significantly reduces their carbon footprint and contributes to a cleaner environment, aligning with the growing emphasis on sustainability.

Year-Round Comfort: Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling capabilities, ensuring a comfortable indoor environment for students and staff throughout the year. This versatility eliminates the need for separate heating and cooling systems, simplifying maintenance and reducing overall costs.

Improved Indoor Air Quality: Heat pumps act as air filters, removing dust, pollen, and other airborne contaminants from the indoor air. This leads to a healthier indoor environment, reducing the risk of allergies and respiratory illnesses among students and staff.

Government Incentives: The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers rebates and incentives for businesses that install heat pumps. These incentives can significantly reduce the upfront cost of installing heat pumps, making them a financially attractive investment for schools.

Positive Impact on Learning: Studies have shown that a comfortable indoor environment can improve student learning and performance. Heat pumps help maintain a consistent and comfortable temperature throughout the school year, potentially contributing to enhanced academic outcomes.

Sustainability Education Opportunities: Installing heat pumps provides an excellent opportunity for schools to incorporate sustainability education into their curriculum. Students can learn about the technology, its environmental benefits, and how it contributes to a more sustainable future.

In summary, heat pumps offer numerous advantages for schools in Illinois, including energy efficiency, environmental friendliness, year-round comfort, improved indoor air quality, government incentives, and positive impacts on learning and sustainability education. As schools strive to reduce their energy consumption, minimize their environmental impact, and create a healthy and comfortable learning environment, heat pumps emerge as a compelling and sustainable solution.

BAS System Energy Efficiency in Schools

A Building Automation System (BAS) is a computer-based system that monitors and controls a building’s mechanical and electrical systems, such as HVAC, lighting, and fire alarms.

Building Automation System

A BAS can help save energy by:

• Optimizing HVAC operation: BAS systems can monitor and control HVAC systems to ensure that they are operating as efficiently as possible. This includes adjusting temperature setpoints, scheduling equipment to run during off-peak hours, and preventing equipment from running unnecessarily.
• Reducing lighting costs: BAS systems can control lighting systems to ensure that lights are only on when they are needed. This can be done by using occupancy sensors, timers, and daylighting controls.
• Identifying and fixing problems: BAS systems can monitor equipment performance and identify potential problems before they cause major breakdowns. This can help to prevent energy waste and costly repairs.
• Providing data for energy-saving measures: BAS systems can collect data on energy consumption, which can be used to identify areas for improvement. This data can also be used to track the progress of energy-saving initiatives.
• Improving occupant comfort: BAS systems can be used to control the temperature, humidity, and air quality in a building, which can help to improve occupant comfort. This can lead to increased productivity and reduced absenteeism.

In addition to the energy-saving benefits, upgrading the BAS system in your school can also lead to:

• Reduced maintenance costs: BAS systems can help to extend the life of equipment and reduce the need for maintenance.
• Improved safety: BAS systems can monitor fire alarms, security systems, and other safety-related equipment.
• Increased property value: A well-maintained BAS system can increase the property value of a school.

The cost of upgrading a BAS system will vary depending on the size and complexity of the school. However, the energy-saving benefits can often offset the initial cost of the upgrade.

Here are some tips for upgrading the BAS system in your school:

• Get quotes from several different vendors: Make sure to get quotes from several different vendors before making a decision.
• Choose a system that is compatible with your existing equipment: Make sure to choose a BAS system that is compatible with your existing HVAC, lighting, and fire alarm systems.
• Get training on how to use the system: Make sure to get training on how to use the BAS system so that you can take full advantage of its features.
• Monitor your energy consumption: Monitor your energy consumption before and after upgrading the BAS system to see how much energy you are saving.
• Use the BAS system to identify and fix problems: Use the BAS system to identify and fix problems with your HVAC, lighting, and other systems.

Upgrading the BAS system in your school can be a great way to save energy, improve comfort, and reduce costs. Retrocommissioning an existing BAS system can save a lot of energy by simply adjusting set points of a system.

Energy Recovery Ventilator in Schools

Fresh air for schools is incredibly important. Most schools provide fresh air through traditional ways, and that incoming air needs to be heated or cooled first before entering the schools.

However, energy recovery ventilators are an improving technology that pull the energy out of outgoing air, and place it directly into incoming air. On a very cold or hot day, the energy passively moves across a heat exchanger and significantly reduce the energy required to heat and cool a building. They often due this with very simple and low energy fans that move the air and let the engineering design do the rest. In addition to saving energy – these can provide far more fresh air for students and staff – reducing illness and slowing the spread of germs. We know that fresh air is important to keeping us safe in our modern world, and ERVs do this while saving energy.

Implementing Energy Efficiency in Schools

By implementing energy efficiency measures, Illinois schools can save money, reduce their environmental impact, and create a more comfortable and healthy learning environment for their students and staff. With the help of available resources and financial assistance, schools can overcome any challenges they may face in implementing energy efficiency projects.

If you want to start with a simple energy efficiency assessment for your school and your are in Illinois or Wisconsin, please reach out to us at (773) 413-9587 or fill out our free assessment form request to get started. We helped hundreds of schools reduce their energy burden, and it all starts with a baseline audit to get started.

Enhancing Hospitality with Sustainability

The hospitality industry, with its vast network of hotels and resorts, plays a significant role in shaping global energy consumption patterns. As environmental concerns and resource scarcity become increasingly prominent, hotels are under pressure to adopt sustainable practices and reduce their energy footprint. Embracing energy efficiency not only benefits the environment but also enhances a hotel’s reputation, attracts eco-conscious clientele, and contributes to long-term cost savings.

Identifying Energy Consumption Patterns

The first step towards energy efficiency in hotels is to thoroughly understand current energy consumption patterns. This involves conducting a hospitality energy audit, which is a comprehensive assessment of the hotel’s energy across various parts of the hotel operations. The audit should identify areas of high energy consumption and potential inefficiencies, providing valuable insights for implementing targeted energy-saving measures.

A strong audit should start with current lighting systems, both in common areas and rooms. Common area lighting will typically have longer hours of operation, and therefore, more energy draw. But both are important, especially as customers spend more time in rooms typically and are impacted by the lighting in the room in how they perceive your space.

HVAC system, which are typically from a centralizes cooling and heating system, have a fan in each room to heat and cool the space. Again, the usage may be higher in the common areas, especially if the hotel has a pool, dining area, conference room, etc. These large spaces can be closed for large time periods at night or off times, and yet still heated and cooled like they are used 24/7.

Refrigeration systems are also critical to look at in hotels that have food service or storage. Refrigeration systems can use huge amounts of power, and modern EC motors and controls can save a ton of energy.

Finally, a control system is critical to measure and manage energy. You can’t change what you can’t measure is the old adage, and it is even more important in energy usage. If your hotel lacks a control system, modern Energy Management Systems can really impact monitoring how the energy is used, as well as adjusting settings to find deep savings.

Optimizing HVAC and Lighting Systems

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are typically the largest energy consumers in hotels. Implementing smart controls and optimizing HVAC operation schedules can significantly reduce energy consumption. Additionally, upgrading to energy-efficient HVAC equipment, such as variable-speed drives and high-efficiency chillers, can further enhance energy savings.

Lighting systems are another major source of energy consumption in hotels. Replacing traditional incandescent and fluorescent bulbs with energy-efficient LED lights can reduce lighting energy consumption by up to 80%. Additionally, installing occupancy sensors, daylight harvesting controls, and motion detectors can further optimize lighting usage.

Adopting Water-Efficient Practices

Water conservation is an integral part of energy efficiency in hotels. Implementing water-efficient fixtures, such as low-flow showerheads, faucet aerators, and high-efficiency toilets, can significantly reduce water consumption and associated energy costs. Additionally, educating guests about water conservation practices and encouraging towel reuse can further contribute to water savings.

Many hotels now offer towel replacement after 3 days, instead of the assumed every day. A small change that makes a huge impact in both energy and labor costs, and most hotel guests prefer this. For those that do not, a simple adjustment can be made to meet their needs.

Enhancing Building Envelope and Insulation

The building envelope, which includes walls, roofs, and windows, plays a crucial role in maintaining indoor temperature and reducing energy consumption. Upgrading insulation, sealing air leaks, and utilizing energy-efficient windows can significantly improve the building’s thermal performance, reducing heating and cooling costs.

It can be hard to make large capital changes to a hotel. But very simple door sweeps can make a big difference on heating, cooling, and more importantly – comfort. This small product can cost less than $5 and just a few minutes of labor from someone experienced, who you likely already have one staff.

Harnessing Renewable Energy Sources

Hotels can further reduce their environmental impact and energy costs by incorporating renewable energy sources into their operations. Installing solar panels to generate electricity, utilizing solar thermal systems for water heating, and exploring geothermal energy options can contribute to a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels.

Rural hotels have a huge advantage in this area – with the ability to put solar PV arrays on the ground near your hotel. This can save the problems that can impact roofs with solar systems, as well as make a more visible statement to your guests.

Implementing Smart Building Technologies

Smart building technologies, such as building automation systems (BAS) and energy management systems, can provide real-time data on energy consumption patterns and enable automated adjustments to optimize energy usage. These systems can also monitor and control various building systems, such as HVAC, lighting, and appliances, to ensure efficient operation and reduce energy waste.

Promoting Sustainability Through Guest Engagement

Engaging guests in sustainability initiatives can enhance a hotel’s reputation and encourage eco-conscious practices. Providing clear information about the hotel’s sustainability efforts, offering incentives for conserving energy and water, and incorporating sustainable options into guest amenities can all contribute to a more environmentally responsible hospitality experience.

Enhancing Hospitality with Sustainability

The hospitality industry, with its vast network of hotels and resorts, plays a significant role in shaping global energy consumption patterns. As environmental concerns and resource scarcity become increasingly prominent, hotels are under pressure to adopt sustainable practices and reduce their energy footprint. Embracing energy efficiency not only benefits the environment but also enhances a hotel’s reputation, attracts eco-conscious clientele, and contributes to long-term cost savings.

Identifying Energy Consumption Patterns

The first step towards energy efficiency in hotels is to thoroughly understand current energy consumption patterns. This involves conducting an energy audit, which is a comprehensive assessment of the hotel’s energy usage across various departments and operations. The audit should identify areas of high energy consumption and potential inefficiencies, providing valuable insights for implementing targeted energy-saving measures.

A strong audit should start with current lighting systems, both in common areas and rooms. Common area lighting will typically have longer hours of operation, and therefore, more energy draw. But both are important, especially as customers spend more time in rooms typically and are impacted by the lighting in the room in how they perceive your space.

HVAC system, which are typically from a centralizes cooling and heating system, have a fan in each room to heat and cool the space. Again, the usage may be higher in the common areas, especially if the hotel has a pool, dining area, conference room, etc. These large spaces can be closed for large time periods at night or off times, and yet still heated and cooled like they are used 24/7.

Refrigeration systems are also critical to look at in hotels that have food service or storage. Refrigeration systems can use huge amounts of power, and modern EC motors and controls can save a ton of energy.

Finally, a control system is critical to measure and manage energy. You can’t change what you can’t measure is the old adage, and it is even more important in energy usage. If your hotel lacks a control system, modern Energy Management Systems can really impact monitoring how the energy is used, as well as adjusting settings to find deep savings.

Optimizing HVAC and Lighting Systems

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are typically the largest energy consumers in hotels. Implementing smart controls and optimizing HVAC operation schedules can significantly reduce energy consumption. Additionally, upgrading to energy-efficient HVAC equipment, such as variable-speed drives and high-efficiency chillers, can further enhance energy savings.

Lighting systems are another major source of energy consumption in hotels. Replacing traditional incandescent and fluorescent bulbs with energy-efficient LED lights can reduce lighting energy consumption by up to 80%. Additionally, installing occupancy sensors, daylight harvesting controls, and motion detectors can further optimize lighting usage.

Adopting Water-Efficient Practices

Water conservation is an integral part of energy efficiency in hotels. Implementing water-efficient fixtures, such as low-flow showerheads, faucet aerators, and high-efficiency toilets, can significantly reduce water consumption and associated energy costs. Additionally, educating guests about water conservation practices and encouraging towel reuse can further contribute to water savings.

Many hotels now offer towel replacement after 3 days, instead of the assumed every day. A small change that makes a huge impact in both energy and labor costs, and most hotel guests prefer this. For those that do not, a simple adjustment can be made to meet their needs.

Enhancing Building Envelope and Insulation

The building envelope, which includes walls, roofs, and windows, plays a crucial role in maintaining indoor temperature and reducing energy consumption. Upgrading insulation, sealing air leaks, and utilizing energy-efficient windows can significantly improve the building’s thermal performance, reducing heating and cooling costs.

It can be hard to make large capital changes to a hotel. But very simple door sweeps can make a big difference on heating, cooling, and more importantly – comfort. This small product can cost less than $5 and just a few minutes of labor from someone experienced, who you likely already have one staff.

Harnessing Renewable Energy Sources

Hotels can further reduce their environmental impact and energy costs by incorporating renewable energy sources into their operations. Installing solar panels to generate electricity, utilizing solar thermal systems for water heating, and exploring geothermal energy options can contribute to a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels.

Rural hotels have a huge advantage in this area – with the ability to put solar PV arrays on the ground near your hotel. This can save the problems that can impact roofs with solar systems, as well as make a more visible statement to your guests.

Implementing Smart Building Technologies

Smart building technologies, such as building automation systems (BAS) and energy management systems, can provide real-time data on energy consumption patterns and enable automated adjustments to optimize energy usage. These systems can also monitor and control various building systems, such as HVAC, lighting, and appliances, to ensure efficient operation and reduce energy waste.

Whenever possible, an Energy Recovery Ventilator should be used in hospitality spaces because of how much energy they save, with up to 93% of energy saved by these new products.

Promoting Sustainability Through Guest Engagement

Engaging guests in sustainability initiatives can enhance a hotel’s reputation and encourage eco-conscious practices. Providing clear information about the hotel’s sustainability efforts, offering incentives for conserving energy and water, and incorporating sustainable options into guest amenities can all contribute to a more environmentally responsible hospitality experience.

Are Hotels a Good Location for EV Car Chargers?

Hotels can be good places for EV car chargers, but it depends on a few factors. Here are some of the pros and cons:

Pros:

• Convenience for guests: Hotels are a natural stopping point for EV drivers on road trips, so having chargers on-site can be a major convenience for them. It allows them to charge their car while they sleep or eat, which can save them time and money.
• Improved brand image: Hotels that offer EV charging can be seen as being more environmentally friendly and forward-thinking, which can appeal to eco-conscious customers.
• Potential for additional revenue: Hotels can charge guests for using the chargers, which can generate additional income.

Cons:

• Cost of installation: Installing EV chargers can be expensive, and hotels may not be willing to make the investment if they don’t think there will be enough demand. Hotels often have a lot of power being used, so there may not be available space on electrical panels for new service.
• Limited availability: There may not be enough space at the hotel to install enough chargers for all of their guests, especially making service close to the parking lot. When there is a lot of space between the building at the parking lot, electric lines need to be trenched underground, which adds to costs.

Overall, whether or not hotels are good places for EV car chargers is a decision that each hotel will need to make on a case-by-case basis. There are both pros and cons to consider, and the decision will ultimately depend on the specific needs of the hotel and its guests. There is no doubt though that a growing number of hotel guests are driving EVs, and those hotels that build loyalty to those drivers will find dividends for years, whether they charge for the service or not. A full hotel room brings in a lot of revenue, and a full charge on an EV costs very little.

What Are Some Top Recommendations to Save Energy from a Hospitality Energy Audit

• Converting Parking Lot lighting to LED is the right place to start, since parking lot lights are on all night long for most hotels and use a ton of energy. In addition, upgrading to LED can save money on maintenance, an unexpected benefit to this energy efficiency project.
• Daylight harvesting and photocell systems are a very inexpensive tool to keep lights off during the day. Often costing less than $20 each, photocells turn off outdoor lights during the day and save a ton of energy and are better than timer clocks, that can become out of whack over time. Daylight harvesting is a strategy that dims indoor lights when there is plenty of daylight, savings energy and wasted system life. Daylight harvesting is great for pools and other sunny interior areas of a building.
• Interior LED lighting conversions for the back of house are often still an opportunity at some place in a hotel. Most hotels have upgraded their public facing common area lighting to LED. However, we have seen back of house lighting are more often than not still fluorescent lighting, making these areas a big place to consider upgrading to LED. And since they are often not visible to the public, a Type A, B or C LED retrofit can be a great place to start and very fast payback.
• Retrocommissioning saves a lot of energy for large hotels. This approach helps adjust the Building Automation System to get it back to original design. Retrocommissioning, or RCx, usually has low capital investment and only recommends adjustments that lead to a 1.5 year simple pay back.

How Do I Begin a Hospitality Energy Audit

Adopting energy-efficient practices is not only a responsibility towards the environment but also a strategic business decision for hotels in 2024. By implementing comprehensive energy-saving measures, hotels can reduce their operating costs, enhance their brand image, and attract an increasing number of environmentally conscious guests. As the world shifts towards a more sustainable future, hotels that embrace energy efficiency will be well-positioned for success and long-term growth.

While fortune 500 companies can access top tier consultants, they often have huge budgets to pay for energy efficiency consulting firms like Deloitte, Bain, Boston Consulting Group, and McKinsey and Company.  However, most companies are small businesses, and can’t get access to those firms. However, the good news is there are a variety of firms that can help you reach your goals and save energy for your business.  

Business Energy Consultants: How They Can Help You Save Energy in Illinois

Business energy consultants are professionals who help businesses reduce their energy consumption and costs. They do this by conducting energy audits, recommending energy-efficient upgrades, and negotiating better energy contracts.

In Illinois, businesses can benefit from working with a business energy consultant in a number of ways. For example, consultants can help businesses:

• Save money on their energy bills. Energy costs can be a significant expense for businesses, especially in Illinois, where the cost of electricity is relatively high. A business energy consultant can help businesses identify ways to reduce their energy consumption, which can lead to significant savings on their energy bills.
• Meet sustainability goals. Many businesses are committed to reducing their environmental impact. A business energy consultant can help businesses develop and implement energy-efficiency measures that can help them meet their sustainability goals.
• Improve their bottom line. By reducing their energy consumption, businesses can improve their bottom line. This is because energy costs are a variable cost, meaning that they can fluctuate over time. By reducing their energy consumption, businesses can lock in a lower energy rate, which can help them to budget more effectively and improve their profitability.

How Do Business Energy Consultants Save Energy?

There are a number of ways that business energy consultants can help businesses save energy. Some of the most common methods include:

• Conducting energy audits. An energy audit is a comprehensive assessment of a business’s energy usage. The audit will identify areas where energy is being wasted and make recommendations for improvement.
• Recommending energy-efficient upgrades. There are a number of energy-efficient upgrades that businesses can make to reduce their energy consumption. These upgrades can include installing new lighting, upgrading HVAC systems, and weatherizing the building.
• Negotiating better energy contracts. Businesses often have the option to choose their energy supplier. A business energy consultant can help businesses negotiate better energy contracts, which can lead to lower energy rates.  However, we encourage our customers to stay with Comed in our local geography – as we tend to see better rates from customers who stay and focus on investing in energy efficiency. 

How to Choose a Business Energy Consultant

When choosing a business energy consultant, it is important to consider a few factors, such as:

• The consultant’s experience. Make sure to choose a consultant who has experience working with businesses in Illinois.
• The consultant’s qualifications. The consultant should be certified by a recognized organization, such as the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE).
• The consultant’s fees. The consultant’s fees should be transparent and competitive.  Verde Energy Efficiency Experts offers free assessments in Chicagoland for our customers.

Where to Find a Business Energy Consultant

Business energy consultants can be a valuable resource for businesses in Illinois. By working with a consultant, businesses can identify ways to reduce their energy consumption and costs, meet sustainability goals, and improve their bottom line.

Here are some additional tips for businesses that are considering working with a business energy consultant:

• Get multiple quotes from different consultants.
• Be clear about your goals and objectives.
• Be prepared to make changes to your operations.
• Be patient. It may take some time to see results.

Working with a business energy consultant can be a great way to save energy and money. By following these tips, businesses can find the right consultant for their needs and achieve their energy-saving goals.  Please give us a call to discuss more at 773.413.9587 or info@verde.expert.

In our Chicago-based energy efficiency company, we love to read publications from national thought leaders around energy efficiency.  Here is a list of the top consulting firms that focus on energy efficiency.  Please also consider reading our more local list on the top 10 sustainable leaders in Chicagoland.  

McKinsey & Company – Global Management Consulting Firm

McKinsey & Company is a global management consulting firm that helps organizations across the private, public, and social sectors solve their most pressing challenges. McKinsey has a strong track record in energy efficiency, having helped clients save billions of dollars through energy efficiency projects. McKinsey’s energy efficiency consulting services include:

• Strategic planning and implementation
• Technical assessments and benchmarking
• Financial analysis and modeling
• Program management and execution
• Measurement and verification

Boston Consulting Group – Global Management Consulting Firm

Boston Consulting Group (BCG) is another leading global management consulting firm that offers energy efficiency consulting services. BCG has helped clients in a variety of industries improve their energy efficiency, including the manufacturing, retail, and healthcare sectors. BCG’s energy efficiency consulting services include:

• Portfolio optimization
• Demand-side management
• Renewable energy procurement
• Energy efficiency financing
• Carbon emissions reduction

Bain &  Company – Global Energy Efficiency Consulting Services

Bain & Company is a third global management consulting firm that provides energy efficiency consulting services. Bain has helped clients in a variety of industries reduce their energy use and costs, including the energy, transportation, and utilities sectors. Bain’s energy efficiency consulting services include:

• Market research and analysis
• Technology assessment and selection
• Vendor negotiations and contracting
• Project management and execution
• ROI tracking and measurement

Ernst & Young – Global Professional Services Firm

EY (Ernst & Young) is a global professional services firm that offers energy efficiency consulting services. EY has helped clients in a variety of industries improve their energy efficiency, including the commercial real estate, manufacturing, and transportation sectors. EY’s energy efficiency consulting services include:

• Energy audits and assessments
• Energy benchmarking and reporting
• Energy management systems implementation
• Demand-side management programs
• Renewable energy procurement

Deloitte – Global Energy Efficiency Consulting Firm

Deloitte is another global professional services firm that offers energy efficiency consulting services. Deloitte has helped clients in a variety of industries reduce their energy use and costs, including the financial services, healthcare, and retail sectors. Deloitte’s energy efficiency consulting services include:

• Energy strategy development
• Portfolio optimization
• Technology assessment and selection
• Project management and execution
• ROI tracking and measurement

In addition to the above firms, there are a number of other smaller, boutique energy efficiency consulting firms that offer specialized services. These firms may be a good option if you have a specific energy efficiency challenge that requires a customized solution.  Verde offers these services on a local level, and specializes in free energy efficiency auditing services for businesses and municipal buildings.  

No matter which energy efficiency consulting firm you choose, it is important to make sure that you have a clear understanding of your goals and objectives before you start working with them. This will help to ensure that you get the most out of the engagement and achieve the desired results.  We call this our pre-qualification phase, understanding how the buildings is used and what the goals are for the leadership of the organization.  

Factors to consider when choosing an energy efficiency firm:

• The firm’s experience and expertise in the energy efficiency industry
• The firm’s track record of success
• The firm’s size and resources
• The firm’s fees
• The firm’s communication and collaboration style

Air pollution and energy efficiency are two of the most pressing environmental challenges facing the world today. Air pollution is caused by the release of harmful pollutants into the atmosphere, while energy efficiency is the use of less energy to achieve the same outcome. Both air pollution and energy inefficiency have significant negative impacts on human health, the environment, and the economy.

However, there are also synergies between air pollution and energy efficiency. By taking steps to improve energy efficiency, we can also reduce air pollution. This is because many of the same measures that can improve energy efficiency can also reduce air pollution emissions. For example, using more efficient appliances and LED lighting in Chicagoland can reduce energy consumption and also reduce emissions of pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxide.

In addition, improving energy efficiency can help to reduce the need for new power plants, which can also help to reduce air pollution emissions. This is because new power plants often emit more pollutants than older, more efficient power plants.

What Causes Poor Air Quality?

There are a wide variety of things that cause poor air quality, some natural and many are man-made. They ebb and flow with the seasons, especially during the hot and dry seasons.

Natural causes to poor air quality are quite varied by region. Locally, in Illinois, we have seen a huge impact on local air quality from wildfires in Canada. Much of the Western United State struggles with this, with wildfires being exasperated by climate change. Climate change makes droughts more common, leading to prolonged spread of fire from dry forests and underbrush.

Humans have also impacted fires in the United States, with a long history of preventing and putting out fires. This allows a large buildup of fuel, so when a fire burns, it really gets going. Small burns of forests are actually quite healthy, as it allows new trees to develop and grow. Some seeds need fire to get started.

Volcanoes also impact air quality, although not as much in our area.

More local to us, farming practices can impact air quality. The last 100 years has shows farming practices that strip the land each year, and plant fresh. This can lead to soil erosion in a dry spring and winter – so windy weather will actually pick a lot of topsoil and dirt up into the air and send it miles. This was prevalent in the early 1900s, and we have all the tools to fix this. But it means changing some practices that farmers have done for hundreds of years.

Energy production creates a lot of poor air quality, most notable is coal energy power plants. They release a lot of emissions, not just global warming CO2. From mercury to particulate matter – coal power plants are among the worst polluters on our planet. In fact, they can lead to early deaths for people, as particulate matter ends up in our lungs and clots form around it to lead to heart attacks and strokes.

There is a lot of industry that leads to poor air quality, like steel and chemical manufacturing. While most obvious to us – think of the Lorax story and the obvious smoke coming from the stack – most pollution is smaller and not something you would think about. Home fires burn not just the wood on a home, but all the little plastic and materials that are dangerous when burned. And considering that there are 400,000 house fires in the United States each year – that is a lot of pollution.

Finally, tail pipe emissions are a huge source of local air quality issues, especially in areas where the smog can get trapped like valleys. I was in Los Angeles at least 4 times before I realized you could see the mountains nearby from the beach, because of how much smog gets trapped by the natural boundaries.

In these terms, each car that we convert from fossil fuels to EV makes a large difference, even though the electricity is still produced somewhere – it isn’t locally within your city. It is also less emissions in general, and there is the opportunity for nuclear, wind and solar, which have no emissions.

And, those that use public transit and bicycling or walking are even better, as no energy is used for each additional rider.

Air Quality Outside Your Building vs Inside

It is important to think of these as two very different conversations, although closely intertwined. As more of the United States is seeing the impact of wildfire smoke during the summer seasons – outdoor air quality is important for our way of life. Nothing replaced being outside and enjoying fresh air – which is hard to do when the air quality is poor.

Breathing isn’t just about taking in air; it’s about taking in clean air. But how do we know when the air outside is safe to breathe? Enter the fascinating world of air quality measurement, a complex yet crucial endeavor that impacts our health and well-being.

The workhorses of air quality monitoring are ground-based stations. Equipped with sophisticated sensors, these stations continuously sample the air, sniffing out harmful pollutants like fine particles (PM2.5 and PM10), ground-level ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide. Each pollutant has its own detection method. For example, lasers dance within the stations, measuring the amount of light scattered by tiny particles, revealing their presence and concentration.

But ground stations aren’t loners. Satellites play a crucial role too. Their eagle-eyed view allows them to track air pollution over vast areas, capturing large-scale events like dust storms or wildfires. By analyzing the reflected or emitted light, satellites can map pollutant concentrations, providing valuable insights for regional and global air quality assessments.

The data collected from both ground and space isn’t just a bunch of numbers. It’s carefully processed and analyzed to create the Air Quality Index (AQI), a simple yet powerful tool for public understanding. The AQI translates complex pollutant concentrations into a single number, categorized by color (green, yellow, orange, red, purple) that reflects the health risk associated with those levels. This allows everyone, from policymakers to individuals, to quickly grasp the state of their air and make informed decisions.

So, the next time you check the weather report, remember to glance at the air quality index as well. It’s a reminder that the air we breathe is a precious resource, and understanding its quality is essential for a healthy planet and healthy lives.

Indoor air quality is different – and dependent on how your building filters air. A very reputable HVAC technician once told me that we work so hard to clean and purify our air, why would you open the windows to let in the outside dirty air. While I don’t agree with him, I do understand what he was trying to say. Our air in our buildings is often cleaner than the air outside.

Ensuring clean, healthy air in buildings is crucial for our well-being and productivity. Fortunately, several methods exist to filter air and create a more comfortable environment. Here’s a glimpse into the world of building air filtration and best practices:

The Filtration Arsenal for Indoor Air Quality

The workhorses of air filtration are HVAC systems. These giants pull in outside air, filter it through various mechanisms, and distribute it throughout the building. The filtration levels vary depending on the system and filters used. Common options include:

• MERV-rated filters: These capture particles of different sizes, with higher MERV numbers indicating better efficiency. MERV 13 or higher is often recommended for buildings, especially in areas with higher pollution levels.
• HEPA filters: These filters capture 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns or larger, making them highly effective for allergy and asthma sufferers. However, they require more powerful systems and can restrict airflow.
• Activated carbon filters: These remove gaseous pollutants like VOCs and odors, improving overall air quality.

While HVAC systems are crucial, additional measures can enhance air quality:

• Source control: This involves minimizing pollutants at their source, like using low-VOC paints and cleaning products.
• Natural ventilation: When possible, opening windows and doors allows fresh air to circulate, reducing reliance on mechanical systems.
• Air purifiers: Portable units can target specific areas, especially beneficial for removing allergens or smoke.
• Regular maintenance: Replacing filters regularly and maintaining HVAC systems is key to optimal performance.
• Conduct regular air quality tests: Identify specific pollutants and tailor filtration solutions accordingly.
• Consult with HVAC professionals: They can recommend the right filtration system and maintenance schedule for your needs.
• Invest in high-quality filters: Opting for MERV 13 or higher filters can significantly improve air quality.
• Monitor CO2 levels: High CO2 levels indicate poor ventilation and can impact occupant health. Aim for levels below 1,000 ppm.
• Educate occupants: Promote healthy habits like handwashing and avoiding bringing allergens into the building.

By understanding air filtration methods and implementing best practices, we can create healthier and more comfortable environments in our buildings, leading to improved well-being and productivity for everyone within. Remember, clean air is not a luxury; it’s a necessity for a healthy and thriving society.

The Synergies between Air Pollution and Energy Efficiency

There are many ways in which air pollution and energy efficiency can have synergies. Some of the most important synergies include:

• Improved air quality: Improving energy efficiency can lead to reduced emissions of air pollutants, such as nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, and particulate matter. These pollutants can cause a variety of health problems, including respiratory problems, heart disease, and cancer.
• Reduced greenhouse gas emissions: Improving energy efficiency can also lead to reduced emissions of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide. Greenhouse gases contribute to climate change, which is a major environmental threat.
• Lower energy costs: Improving energy efficiency can help to lower energy costs, which can benefit businesses and consumers. This can also help to reduce the need for new power plants, which can further reduce air pollution emissions.
• Job creation: The transition to a more energy-efficient economy can create jobs in a variety of sectors, such as manufacturing, construction, and installation. This can help to boost economic growth and create a more sustainable future.
• Improved public health: Improving air quality can lead to improved public health, as people are less likely to suffer from respiratory problems and other health problems caused by air pollution. This can lead to a healthier and more productive workforce.

Examples of Synergies between Air Pollution and Energy Efficiency

There are many examples of synergies between air pollution and energy efficiency. Some of the most notable examples include:

• The use of renewable energy: Renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, do not produce air pollution emissions. This makes them a good option for reducing air pollution and improving air quality.
• The use of energy-efficient appliances and lighting: Energy-efficient appliances and lighting use less energy than traditional appliances and lighting. This can lead to reduced emissions of air pollutants and greenhouse gases.
• The use of public transportation: Public transportation is a more energy-efficient way to travel than private vehicles. This can help to reduce air pollution emissions from transportation.
• The development of smart grids: Smart grids are more efficient than traditional power grids. This can help to reduce energy consumption and air pollution emissions.
• The implementation of energy efficiency standards: Energy efficiency standards can help to improve the energy efficiency of buildings, appliances, and other products. This can lead to reduced emissions of air pollutants and greenhouse gases.

Ways to Improve Energy Efficiency

The synergies between air pollution and energy efficiency are clear. By taking steps to improve energy efficiency, we can also reduce air pollution and improve public health. This is a win-win situation for both the environment and the economy.

There are many ways to improve energy efficiency. Some of the most effective measures include:

• Efficient appliances and lighting: Use energy-efficient appliances and lighting whenever possible.
• Weatherization: Weatherize and protect your home or business to make it more resilient to climate change events.
• Driving less: Walk, bike, or take public transportation whenever possible.
• Smart thermostats: Use smart thermostats to control your building’s heating and cooling more efficiently.
• Home energy audits: Get a building energy audit to identify areas where you can improve your energy efficiency.

By taking these steps, we can all help to improve air quality and protect our environment.

Energy efficiency is a crucial aspect of running a successful business and oftentimes business owners are left with so little information about it. This is where energy consulting firms, like Verde, come in, advertising that they can help businesses run an environmentally friendly and energy efficient operation.

But what is it that these firms do exactly? As an energy consulting firm with years of experience in identifying opportunities for companies to reduce energy consumption and save money, we’re here to provide you with the answers.

What is Energy Efficiency Consulting Exactly?

Despite the scope of operations in one company, businesses still use a certain amount of electrical energy and generate some waste. Energy consulting encompasses all actions aimed toward identifying opportunities to reduce costs associated with energy consumption and waste generation.

However, it doesn’t end with identifying only. Energy consulting also includes finding and implementing solutions to minimize energy consumption and reduce carbon footprint. The ultimate goal for an energy consultant is to reduce operational costs for a company and help it become more environmentally friendly.

Energy Efficiency Consulting Firms Services

Energy efficiency and environmentally friendly business processes have become two very popular topics across all verticals. This is probably the main reason why people are looking into energy consulting firms more.

Simply put, energy consulting firms analyze energy consumption and carbon footprint for SMBs and enterprises, identify opportunities to reduce energy consumption, and implement them on the spot.

The first thing an energy consulting firm will do once you contact them is to perform an energy efficiency assessment. This is an audit of sorts, that allows energy consulting firms to gauge your energy consumption practices, past electrical bills, and waste generation.

If we break down the services of an energy consulting firm, we will be able to see the different energy saving topics these firms address and the things they do to cut down expenses and improve energy efficiency.

Interior and Exterior Lighting

Interior and exterior lighting solutions often cause huge energy consumption costs which significantly increase electrical bills. Energy consulting firms specialize in replacing and retrofitting obsolete lighting solutions with new LED lights.

LED lighting uses up to 80% energy than traditional lighting, and also has less mercury and needs to be changed less often. So along with energy efficiency consultants saving you actual energy, they are also going to save you on maintenance costs and recycling and waste services too.

To even go deeper on these savings, LED lighting can have daylight harvesting and photocell controls integrated, making them last even longer since a fixture dimmed or off will last longer than one on all the time.

HVAC System Recommendations from Consulting

Energy consultants will also inspect your current HVAC systems to assess their efficiency, but also to identify if they have up-to-date technologies and parts. If necessary, you will get a recommendation to upgrade your HVAC unit to a more energy efficient one. We call this a high efficiency, or HE HVAC upgrade – taking the same system design and improving it to a better version. It isn’t sexy, but it saves a lot of money and often has rebates and incentives associated with it.

You can decide if a basic upgrade is within your budget. Typically, an energy efficiency consulting firm will encourage you to seek CEE tier 2 equipment, which is the top 25% of efficient equipment on the market. HVAC equipment can do this with Variable Speed motors and drivers, as well as with multiple stage heating and cooling that can operate far more efficiently. Modern equipment can also achieve more efficient cooling by expanding to larger footprint evaporators.

Demand Control Ventilation for Your Space

An advanced energy efficiency consultant will encourage you to look into advanced ventilation strategies like demand control ventilation. Demand-controlled ventilation (DCV) is a smart ventilation system that automatically adjusts the amount of fresh air brought into a building based on real-time conditions, such as:

• Occupancy: When there are more people in a space, the DCV system will increase the ventilation rate to remove CO2 and other pollutants. Conversely, when the space is unoccupied, the system will bring in less outside air, saving you from heating and cooling outside air.
• Indoor air quality: DCV systems can be equipped with sensors that monitor indoor air quality for things like CO2, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and humidity. If the levels of these pollutants start to rise, the system will increase ventilation to improve air quality.
• Energy efficiency: By only providing ventilation when it is needed, DCV systems can significantly reduce energy consumption associated with heating, cooling, and operating the ventilation system itself.
• Improved indoor air quality: DCV systems help to ensure that occupants have access to fresh, clean air, which can improve their health and productivity.
• Reduced energy consumption: DCV systems can save up to 50% of the energy used by traditional ventilation systems.
• Lower operating costs: By reducing energy consumption, DCV systems can also help to lower operating costs for building owners.
• Increased occupant comfort: DCV systems can help to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures and humidity levels.

Most equipment can incorporate a demand control ventilation in a retrofit, or even just adding a CO2 sensor to an existing system. These savings can be deep, and often the costs to implement are fairly low.

Heat Pump and Energy Recovery Ventilators

If you are feeling ambitious, or have very strong ESG goals, your energy efficiency consultant may recommend heat pumps. In fact, heat pumps are the only way to decarbonize heating needs for buildings.

When you combine a heat pump, or Variable Refrigerant Flow system (VRF) with an energy recovery ventilator, a building can be up 600% more efficient than standard systems. These are major systems that require engineering and a lot of capital and foresight – but they save deep amounts of energy and long term costs.

The first thing an energy efficiency consultant should do is gauge how deep of savings you are committed to – and what kind of return on investment you will require. This kind of recommended VHE HVAC system is not for the faint of heart – but they can lead to deep savings and a more healthy and competitive work environment.

Doors, Roofing and Windows Insulation

The insulation on your doors and windows deteriorates over time, causing the outside air to come inside and overwork your cooling or heating systems. If this is the case in your building, an energy consultant will recommend weather-stripping to help you restore insulation and minimize energy waste.

Roofing insulation can make a big difference in heat loss during the winter, and white cool roofs can make a big difference in lowering a temperature of a building in the summer. These two projects can make a big impact on building comfort as well, creating an added benefit.

New windows not only make a huge difference in energy savings, they need to typically get done every few decades and should be budgeted for.

Rebates from utilities can help offset some of the cost of each of these, especially if done in conjunction with a blower door test to look for air leaks and low insulation points.

Solar PV and Wind Energy

Almost every business and homeowner is curious about solar PV these days. An energy efficiency consultant can help navigate this complicated space, to see what options exist for your building roof and property.

In Illinois and many states, Renewable Energy Credits can help make the choice of solar on your property make more sense. The state will give you credits to help meet goals of solar PV production, sometimes covering up to 40% of the cost of a project. In addition, there are federal tax credits that can help make this project make sense if you are a tax paying organization. And if you do not pay taxes, state RECS can often be higher to help you. And finally, there are the savings you get from creating your own power, which can often lead to up to 25 years of free energy once paid for.

You can also participate in solar by buying into a community solar farm in Illinois, as well as credits for wind and solar. Both of these can be viable options to reduce traditional electricity purchase, and sometimes lower costs. In 2024, the cost to produce wind and solar energy and produce those new production sources are actually cheaper than traditional, and come with state subsidies to boot.

Finally, there is something called a power purchasing agreement. This can help someone else pay for your system, and then sell you the power generated over the next 20 years. The benefit of this is that there is no capital cost for the work up front, and often maintenance of panels are included.

Energy Efficiency Consultants Look At Your Electricity Usage

The energy efficiency consultant will typically request the past 2 years of your electric utility bills, so you they can analyze your usage and costs. While they can often grab past usage off just a single bill with your account on it, old bills can help them determine how your costs have changed over time, and what to expect in terms of costs increases in the future.

There are three main things to consider with electricity usage and costs. First, is your kWh each month. This is your usage of energy, which is measured in kilowatt hours.

Next is your peak usage, which is kW. It may seem like these are the same, but they are quite different. Peak kW is the highest your building has energy coming into it at any one time. This is very important to the utility, since it helps them manage the entire grid and the local grid around you.

Finally, the cost you pay for each of those is important. We always recommend clients stay with their local utility instead of third party providers – but the important thing is that you know how much you pay for both of the above for savings calculations.

Energy Efficiency Consultants Look at Your Water Usage

Water usage can often be overlooked – but it can tell a story. And since the City of Chicago has really pushed hard to measure and bill water based on usage – there can be more reasons to save on water usage.

Industrial usage can use a lot of water, but so can landscaping and other reasons you may not think of. One of our past customers was paying a significant water bill in the summer, because they used city water to cool their chillers for air conditioning. While that is no longer allowed by code – it was also a terrible idea because of the huge cost of water in our area.

Energy Efficiency Consultants Look at Your Natural Gas Usage

Other than process usage, natural gas is typically used for heating your space, creating hot water, and food preparation.

All of those systems can now be done more efficiently with heat pumps and electric cooking equipment. While the cost to convert can be high, there is no way to decarbonize a building without removing natural gas. Since Evanston and Oak Park have already passed legislation, and Chicago is considering essentially banning natural gas on new building construction – this technology will continue to evolve and come down in cost.

Getting the past 2 years of natural gas usage is an important step, so you can determine heating natural gas usage from the others, as well as determine the benefit of fuel switching.

What Does an Energy Consultant Do If I Have Multiple Buildings or Locations?

If you have multiple locations, they may encourage you to use a software platform that can aggregate and compare these locations. But you can easily use an excel spreadsheet to do this, and that may be how they accomplish managing different buildings, either with a simple or complex spreadsheet.

When we have worked with PGIM and Lasalle on projects like these, they have whole teams dedicated to this task. But smaller firms likely don’t, so a simple spreadsheet can accomplish a lot. Feel free to ask us if you’d like a template to use.

Do You Need an Energy Consultant?

The best way to assess whether you need an energy consultant is to take a look at your energy bills. If you’re under the impression that they’re too high, you should request an energy assessment today.  

On the other hand, if you want to optimize your energy consumption and run an environmentally friendly operation, you can also benefit from cooperating with an energy consulting firm such as Verde. Other benefits can include reduced maintenance costs, reduce recycling and trash fees, and more.

In our energy efficiency consulting firm, we constantly look for inspiration from local companies that lead and innovate in clean energy and sustainability.  Not all companies have billion dollar budgets, but that doesn’t mean that small companies can’t steal their innovative ideas around energy efficiency, supply chain consideration, transportation, and even renewable power. 

There are lots of great sustainability and environmental companies in Chicago.  While we are not as well known for this industry as the California and the East Coast – we bring a unique blend and spin.  I always say, because Chicago has cheap energy rates and very inexpensive landfill costs – if you can do it in Illinois, the model will work anywhere in the United States.  So that makes us a tougher location to be green, but a more sustained place to search and find a business model for our work.  Our unique blend of climate, utility rebates, and supporting state regulations makes us an ideal candidate to be one of the leading metro cities for environmental work.  

Large corporations have and do continue to be leaders – from United Airlines to JLL, with many in between.  But the real work happens at the midsize and local level, and we are inspired by those that break the mold and grown and create good sustainability jobs in Chicago. 

This is our list of the Verde Energy Efficiency’s Top 10 Sustainable Companies. With a combination of large and small players, we feel that companies of all sizes can find some inspiration from this group.  Please let us know if you think your company should make our list, or if you have any other feedback on our top environmental company list.  

1. Northwestern University – Most Sustainable Companies

Northwestern University has a clear commitment to the environment, and it shows from its top down leadership style.  The top leadership in the University believes in the importance of this approach, and you can see it written all over their communication and actions.

In our experience, Northwestern has been a leader in their investment in solar power production on site.  Two years ago, they worked hard to put together a Strategic Sustainability Plan, and since then, have certified a LEED Platinum building, won the 2018 Energy Star Partner of the Year, added 16 electric vehicles to their fleet, and diverted 38 percent of campus waste from landfills through recycling, composting and reusing material.  That is a lot of reasons for incoming students to be inspired, giving Northwestern a unique edge in top Universities in the country.

After installing 2 huge solar PV arrays, they have the ambitious goal of net zero usage by 2050.  While I am a University of Chicago graduate myself, I find their efforts inspirational and look forward to what they do in the future.  Huge universities use an incredible amount of energy, therefore, they have a great opportunity to lead the next generation of students and partners through their work.

One other interesting note – sustainability leads at Northwestern, Loyola, University of Chicago, UIC, as well as our vast diverse array of community colleges – regularly meet and share ideas and strategy.  We think this will lead to a multiplier effect, as well as some healthy competition to out “green” each other, and look forward to this being one of the top areas of innovation among sustainability companies in Chicago.

2. Delta Institute – Most Sustainable Companies

If you work in the environmental world in Chicago, then you know the Delta Institute.  You may not always know what they do, because they cross such a broad spectrum of projects, but they impact you one way or another.

Delta has been around since 1998, and provided crucial leadership on all topics sustainability in Chicago.  One of my favorite initiatives of the Delta Institute is their Emerging Leaders Board, and in fact, two of Verde’s employees have been involved in this board and always come back inspired.

As a well funded non-profit, Delta often works as a consultant to fill in gaps in the current community.  From supporting sustainability at the Field Museum, to composting pilots and driving recycling, they are in our community and doing amazing things.

• Founded: 1998
• Areas of focus: Climate change, agriculture, water, community development
• Impact: Supported 5 million Midwesterners, transitioned 1,000 acres to conservation practices, captured 100 million stormwater gallons

Some specific contributions of Delta Institute include:

• Creating comprehensive implementation and funding plans for the Chicago Climate Action Plan
• Collaborating with grassroots organizations on redevelopment efforts for closed coal power plants
• Assisting municipalities with integrating natural climate solutions
• Supporting farmers by providing resources and expertise for transitioning to sustainable practices
• Organizing the BOOST competition for sustainable startups in Chicago

3. Invenergy – Most Sustainable Companies

When it comes to brilliant entrepreneurs in Chicago, Michael Polsky is at the top of the list.  It helps that he has made his money in clean energy endeavors, originally with SkyGen Energy.

Today, he runs Invenergy, a profitable entity that provides power generation and storage solutions at scale around the world to create a cleaner energy future.  If there is large scale wind of PV production, Invenergy likely touches it in one way or another.  Considering the problem at hand in our environment, we need big players like Invenergy to show us how profitability and clean energy are not mutually exclusive.

Through their portfolio of clean and efficient projects, Invenergy claims to have offset 64.7 million tons of C02, equivalent to 1,505,790,651 urban trees planted.  Thats a lot of green, and shows that experienced entrepreneurs dabbling in the sustainability realm could lead to a lot of good.   

Invenergy also has a venture capital investment arm – stimulating future business growth in Chicago.  Here are some highlights about Invenergy that you may not know.  

• Job creation: Their presence provides valuable employment opportunities for Chicago residents, contributing to the city’s economic growth.
• Project portfolio: Invenergy develops, owns, and operates renewable energy projects across North America, Latin America, Europe, and Asia. This global reach brings expertise and innovation back to Chicago.
• Clean energy leadership: They play a crucial role in advancing the clean energy transition, offsetting millions of tons of carbon dioxide emissions through their projects.
• Technological advancements: Invenergy invests in research and development, exploring new technologies for clean energy generation and storage, contributing to broader progress in the field.
• Collaboration with local organizations: Invenergy partners with various Chicago-based organizations and institutions, fostering collaboration and driving sustainability initiatives forward.
• Invenergy received positive recognition for their work, including being named one of the “World’s Most Ethical Companies” by Ethisphere Institute.

 

4. Center For Neighborhood Technology

Number 4 on our list of most sustainable and clean energy companies Chicago has to offer is The Center for Neighborhood Technology.  CNT is an environmental think tank that has helped shape and develop Chicago’s sustainability movement since 1978.  CNT was founded by a group of passionate visionary’s that have gone on to influence Chicago’s environmental energy, water, transportation and recycling initiatives.

CNT focuses on data usage and technology, with their H+T Index for housing and transportation,  They also provide a home for future generations of sustainability leadership, including an active internship program and new ventures.  CNT spun off Elevate Energy, as well as I-GO Car Sharing, and countless other partnerships and ventures.  Their board has included some incredible entrepreneurs and sustainability leaders, and they draw in and help train the next generation of leaders in Chicagoland.  

CNT is a thought leader in Chicago, and continues to impact the community locally and nationally on environmental policy topics.  Founded in 1978 with some of the best leaders in the environmental movement, it is no surprise that they continue to be a top environmental company today in Chicago.  

With a robust environmental intern program, they not only foster their own talent, but also talent that contributes throughout many other companies and non-profit on this list.  

Focus Areas:

• Economic Development and Poverty Reduction: CNT works to improve job opportunities, reduce the cost of living, and support local businesses in underserved communities. They promote strategies like local hiring, equitable development, and access to financial resources.
• Climate Resilience: CNT helps communities adapt to the impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather events and rising sea levels. They design and implement nature-based solutions like green infrastructure and urban agriculture, reducing flood risk and improving air quality.
• Urban Analytics: CNT leverages data and technology to inform decision-making and track progress towards sustainability goals. They develop tools and resources like the H+T Index for housing and transportation affordability, empowering communities to advocate for change.

5. Big Thorn Farm

There are lots of exciting initiatives going on in the craft brewery industry in Illinois.  With the move of Lagunitas to Chicago in 2012 because of our huge fresh water resource in Lake Michigan, and the explosive growth of Half Acre, Two Brothers, and Revolution (to just name a few), these energy users seem to really understand the importance of sustainability in their craft (pun intended).  Big Thorn Farm definitely pushes the limit of green companies Chicago hosts, with an offgrid farmhouse brewery in Central Illinois.

While currently run on solar power, they are in the process of installing a wind turbine to expand their renewable production.  In addition to using farm ingredients, this small farm brewery is a great role model for the entire Illinois brewery community.

A little further south than most would consider to be Chicagoland, they are worth the trip and we are thinking – road trip (in a bus, of course).

6. LuminAID

LuminAID is an innovative startup that creates solar powered LED “pillows”.  Small solar panels charge up enough energy for LED lamps to run for areas in need. Well designed for areas without access to electricity or during natural disasters relief, these have a buy one give one concept to share with the developing world.

While these innovative approaches on a small micro scale might not seem like much, they really can be.  While not designed for places with reliable sources to energy, they are a physical tool that can use solar PV to get a small amount of light or charge a cell phone.  Who knows if the next generation isn’t keeping these pillows against their windows during the day to read books at night, understanding net zero usage and being inspired from a young age.

Impact:

• Distributed over 150,000 solar lanterns globally, impacting millions of lives in over 80 countries.
• Partnered with various humanitarian organizations like UNICEF and the Red Cross to provide light during disasters and crises.
• Promoted solar energy adoption, raising awareness about renewable energy and combating climate change.
• Supported local businesses and communities by collaborating with artisans and manufacturers in developing countries.
• LuminAID operates based on the “Buy One, Give One” model, donating a solar lantern to someone in need for every one purchased.
• They prioritize sustainable practices throughout their business operations and product design.
• The company has been recognized for its innovative work, receiving awards like the Fast Company Social Impact Award and the Good Design Award.

7. Abt Electronics

Abt Electronics, number 7 on our list of most sustainable companies, is not what you would think of in an innovative sustainable company.  Abt has been a staple in the suburbs of Chicago since 1936.  However, they have been innovating quietly in this area for years, while still driving a successful business that has a strong brand around the country.

“Putting Lights On Sensors And Recycling Paper Is One Thing, But Chicago’s Abt Has Its Own Recycling Plant And Runs Its 350,000-Square-Foot Store Completely Off The Grid.”  This is a quote off their website, but hidden deep with little emphasis in their marketing.  They not only have their own recycling plant, but also are completely off the grid with biodiesel, wind and solar PV.  They also recycle styrofoam, which even the City of Chicago won’t do.

This might sound interesting in theory, but if you have ever been to Abt and see the size and scale of what they do, you would be amazed.  It is like a Walmart on steroids – run off the grid!  They continue to inspire as one of the premier green companies in Chicago.

Abt is a leader on the environmental movement, quietly while excelling as a top company in their industry.  Anyone from Chicago that owns a home knows about Abt because of their excellent reputation.  While the core of their business is not sustainable, they show that a commitment to being a top environmental company comes with an added benefit – sustained profit. 

8. Meliora Cleaning Products

One of the best parts about our job at Verde is getting out and seeing the amazing manufacturing that happens in our great city.  We get a bad rap for having lost manufacturing – but we are still a titan of industry with capacities unparalleled in the world.

Meliora was built by Kate Jakubus and Mike Meyer, manufacturing safe and environmentally friendly cleaning products right here in the Chi.  One of the most admirable parts of their business is that they have dedicated to being a certified B corporation, which really makes sure businesses are practicing the hippie values that they say they are.

Meliora really reminds us of Method (another innovative Chicago manufacturer), but we have exciting ambitions for what Meliora will grow to in thier young and innovative stage.

9. Uncommon Ground

Number 8 on our list of most sustainable companies in Chicago is Uncommon Ground.  Every story needs a hero.  Uncommon Ground is the small success story that shows doing the right thing the right way can eventually pay off.  Since 1991, Michael and Helen Cameron have been running Uncommon Ground in Chicago and driving the farm to table movement way before it was a trend.

With locations in Lakeview and Edgewater, Uncommon Ground is home to the 1st organic rooftop farms in the US, beehives, and the first organic brewery in Illinois.  They allow tours of their farms to the public on the first Friday of each month from 5pm to sunset, inspiring the next generation of ecopreneurs.

They also have amazing food, which is really the only reason they are still in business after 28 years.  They continue to lead and inspire others via their groundbreaking work, which continues to this day.  

10. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

For 160 years, Chicago’s Nature Museum has been at the forefront of conservation efforts in Chicago and the region.  

Not only do they have an entire museum dedicated to nature and conservation education right on our lakefront (our most precious natural resource), but they are at the forefront of the conversation around migratory birds.  Over 5,000 birds collide with Chicago loops buildings each year, with more than half of those dying and the remainder needing care for to survive.  Organizations like the Nature Museum fill an advocate and research gap that our government does not provide.  They are a great leader to all of our most sustainable companies.

The museum is a great place to take kids and adults alike to be inspired – with deep looks into our water usage, natural habitat and marsh education, as well as a 2,700 square foot butterfly sanctuary.  I always walk away from the nature museum feeling inspired to respect our mother earth more, and it is definitely a great place to take kids.

Check out the Verde Energy Efficiency’s Top 10 Sustainable Companies for 2020 in Chicagoland, and let us know what you think!  If your business needs some inspiration on how to improve and become a future name on this list, please sign up for our energy efficiency audit for your business or government building today and let us dig into some of the fun ways you can also reduce impact and save money and energy. 

There are so many ways to get started in making your workplace more sustainable, but it takes buy in from the ownership.  Whether a huge corporation or a small business, your efforts at making your office or workplace better can be thwarted by management if they are not on board.

Here are 5 key ways to bring a little bit of your environmental passion into work, that won’t create too much disagreement and/or cost your company too much money.  You won’t need to hire an expensive energy consultant or engage waste consulting firms, but instead can start with these 5 steps.

Composting

While composting gets a bad wrap at times (smelly, hard to do, flies), we have used a great service at our office that composts without the hassle from Urban Canopy.  They have a bucket that gets picked up every two weeks, and it works great for coffee, tea, and a ton of food waste.  Since they are an industrial composter, they can take more things like diary and meat products – so it opens up more opportunities.  We have not had any smell or fruit flies issues at work, which is a huge plus.

Buying Local

Its not as sexy as a solar panel or LED fixture with daylight controls, but it is important.  Buying local can happen several ways, and they can often save a business money at the same time.  As long as you don’t let it impact your main role at a company, few operations would complain if you brought them an alternative vendor that is local and would cost less – it just sometimes takes a bit of digging.

One of our favorite ways to buy local is to pick up lunch or meals at a local restaurant, instead of just getting delivery from the normal corporate place.  We have a local sandwich shop near us called Spoken that is a favorite of the office, we can walk or bike to for picking up food, and does a great job of keeping food waste to a minimum.  Nothing makes our office upset like mountains of styrofoam, especially in a city like Chicago that is known for lackluster recycling.  I am never upset to show up to an event that is catered by the Corner Bakery, but I especially notice places that take time and order from local vendors.

Another example of buying local was an analysis we did on purchasing our outdoor LED fixtures for our clients through China or from a local vendor, Jarvis Lighting. While purchasing from China is less expensive, we were constantly running into supply chain issues.  Occasionally, we had to air ship fixtures from overseas, costing both a fortune on our bottom line and our environmental impact (shiping via air has 50 times the carbon impact as shipping cargo via boat.  Our local vendor not only supplies a majority of our exterior lighting solutions, but they also have a lean manufacturing model and can turn around products for us in several days.  The impact on customers satisfaction, as well as environmental benefits, far exceed saving a few dollars on the fixture cost.

Bike Sharing

Bike Sharing is a good option for employees that mostly take public transit, but occasionally might need to take a Lyft or Uber.  A bike sharing membership costs less than $80 a year in Chicago with Divvy, and you can either subsidize it all or partial for employees.  Especially for those that occasionally go downtown, Divvy can be a super inexpensive perk that makes employees pumped up (pun intended).

Divvy will even consider your business as a spot for one of their stations, if you are interested in a membership for employees.  While that may not make a huge difference, if you are a restaurant or bar – a Divvy station nearby could increase your traffic.

Smart Thermostats

Ok, so I often go on rants and tangents about smart thermostat solutions.  There is a reason for this, and it isn’t the hot and cool new features and styles.

Smart thermostats give control over an empty business.  Business owners, especially in the early years, are more often to be the only one at the office late at night or early in the morning.  I can’t tell you then number of times I have been alone on a Saturday and realized that we left the heat at 72 all weekend long.

With a Nest or Ecobee, you can login from your phone or desktop browser and lower the heat.  Better yet, they will use their smart powers to notice when the space is empty and automatically set back the heat or cooling.

Business owners also love control, or at least solutions to problems.  Have a customer coming by on a Saturday in the summer in an unusual time – you can make sure to pre-cool the space an hour before to make sure it is comfortable when they arrive.    In the past, you had to just leave the hold function on a programmable thermostat, and it may just override and set back.  Smart thermostats give you a ton more options for savings on both heating and cooling, and often make a space more comfortable for employees.

Water Purification

This is one of the least popular moves that I have made, but I strongly believe in responsibly sourcing water for an office.

We used to use a water service, with a cooler that provided cold and semi hot water.  The tea was never good, and the cool water was refreshing.  However, the water bottles were brought by truck weekly, and the environmental impact on that is not insignificant.  The unit also always draws water.

About 18 months ago, we put in a water purification system from Berkeley.  It costs around $250, which took almost a year to payback in terms of our monthly water costs.  However, it will last literally forever and will continue to saving us money on both the water service and electricity for years to come.

The best part for me – we got a $10 tea kettle and now have good hot tea, not that tepid tea water out of those water coolers.

After all, those of us in Chicago have the greatest resource on the planet in vast quantities just miles from us – we don’t need trucks to drive it to us.  We can save that for our fancy french wine (or $3 chuck in my house).

**Note, in 2019, we added Tetracycle recycling to our office area, recycling almost 95% of our waste.  In addition, we have brought an in-house recycling equipment to our Chicago warehouse in 2020 – so we not only recycle more, but require less transportation related expenses for our recycling efforts.  All fluorescent lamps are crushed down into large bins for recycling instead of packaged into cardboard boxes for transit.