During this time of year, furnaces start running; kitchen appliances bake, store and re-warm holiday goodies; and Christmas lights begin twinkling, so reducing energy costs should be at the front of everyone’s minds. However, energy efficiency is more than just cutting costs. Energy efficiency also increases property value, can improve a business’ competitiveness and has even been proven to improve individuals’ physical and mental health. There’s no disadvantage.

In the bigger picture, practicing energy efficiency helps combat climate change, reducing greenhouse gas and carbon dioxide emissions, and conserves natural resources. It is obvious that agriculture is extremely important to this state, providing employment for more than 321,000 people. That’s over 23% of the state’s workforce, so implementing and maintaining energy-efficient technologies and habits should be a priority to any Nebraskan.

The following Lincoln companies make sustainable development and a sustainable lifestyle attainable for the average person.

The sustainable use of resources helps preserve the environment by reducing greenhouse gases and other emissions; that’s a fact. It also helps to conserve resources for future generations. Don’t ignore the impact of making energy-efficient choices!

Lincoln Electric System (LES) (les.com) helps its customers save on electric bills by sharing ways to manage energy consumption and use more energy efficient technologies. It can be as simple as utilizing low-cost, low-tech tools, like smart plugs or smart power strips, which are an effortless way to manage phantom loads.

Jennifer Bangert
LES

Energy-efficient appliance upgrades, such as heat pump water heaters, can also reduce the amount of energy needed for heating, cooling and operating one’s home or business. If one is considering upgrading one’s home to make it more efficient, LES’ Sustainable Energy Program offers potential cash-saving incentives to residential and business customers for qualifying purchases. Customers can work with local contractors or find the details on LES’ website.

LES has programs in place to reduce peak electricity demand, such as the Peak Rewards Program. Program participants agree to let LES make brief, limited adjustments to their internet-connected thermostat during times of peak electric demand. This helps LES to shift peak power use on hot summer days, which can help the community delay the need for another generating resource.

LES and its customers want to do their part in making an environmental impact.

Engineered Controls (engineeredcontrols.com) similarly understands that lighting and HVAC systems are generally to blame for a significant portion of a building’s high operational costs. It’s estimated that lighting and HVAC systems can collectively account for up to 80% of a building’s total energy usage, which is all the more reason to reevaluate its energy footprint and see if there is a better, more environmentally friendly solution.

Pat Killeen
Engineered Controls

Engineered Controls recognizes the importance of implementing effective energy management strategies and achieves energy efficiency by utilizing its innovative Building Automation System, a sophisticated technology that allows for the centralized control and optimization of all critical systems.

Engineered Controls supports its customers in identifying areas where efficiency can be improved within their buildings via its Energy Optimization programs. These programs leverage a diverse array of energy-efficient products and solutions and are overseen by their team of knowledgeable professionals.

Pat Killeen, the Owner of Engineered Controls, shared the programs’ objective saying “The aim is to provide building owners and managers with real-world data to make informed decisions that not only enhance the comfort of occupants but also reduce energy consumption.”
Engineered Controls is dedicated to delivering high-quality products and services that establish efficient, safe and comfortable building environments that not only safe on costs, but that help companies shrink their energy footprint, which allows them to contribute their share to energy conservation efforts.

Lincoln’s experts specialize in implementing energy-efficient technologies crucial for a sustainable future. By tapping into their knowledge, one can significantly lower waste, greenhouse gas emissions and utility costs, making substantial strides towards a more sustainable environment.