The precautionary measures of closing down non-essential services in Australia has placed a lot of business owners under financial duress.

While businesses may not be operating, it is important to ensure that energy usage on site is minimised as much as possible to reduce unnecessary costs.   

The best thing you can do for your business if it is closed right now is to 'power down' by switching the power supply OFF at the mains, it might seem like a 'no-brainer' solution but it is something that can be overlooked. 

As it may not be viable for many businesses to completely 'power down', we have listed below some recommendations to help minimise the usage of equipment that does need to stay on:

COMMON EQUIPMENT TYPES:

• Ensure your A/C timers are switched OFF. For HVAC systems you may need to change the settings/timers, larger systems often have a "holiday mode" where they are largely OFF but will still turn ON to avoid more extreme temperatures and conditions. Consult with your HVAC maintenance provider if you are unsure of the optimal system settings for your situation.
• Computer server room A/C units should be left ON unless the server equipment is being shutdown.
• Switch OFF any non-essential lighting.
• Switch OFF all equipment at the power source including:
  • Computers, monitors, POS, printers, scanners, copiers and modems.
  • Kitchen equipment - Coffee machine, microwave, kettle, sandwich maker, dishwasher.
  • Refrigeration (only if there is non-essential food items that can be removed).
  • Electric hand dryers.
  • Televisions and projector screens.
  • Hot water system

The Australian solar industry are warning that a shortage in solar panel supply due to COVID-19 is expected to result in significantly higher prices for solar installations in the very near future.

How is Coronavirus affecting manufacturing?

According to PV Magazine Australia, solar prices are expected to rise with the cost of PV modules increasing, all as a result of the virus outbreak. This is due to a shortage in module glass and wafers needed to create these systems, and the drop in the Australian Dollar.

Our Solar suppliers are advising to get installations done now, before the shortfall of panels impacts prices.

Contact us if you are interested in installing energy products so that we can help you secure pricing.