NECAQ Sustainability Program€¦ · their commercial and domestic customers that offer an...

NECAQ Sustainability Program NECA Queensland (NECAQ) is the peak body in the electrical contracting sector in the state,

representing individual firms and companies whose business is the selling, installation, servicing and repair of electrical and communications products and services.

As part of its ongoing service to its members and the wider electrical industry, NECAQ , with

the support of the Department of Environment and Resource Management (DERM), has developed a sustainability program for the Queensland electrical industry.

These workshop notes provide a resource for electrical contractors, electricians and

apprentices to help them think about energy efficiency, sustainable business and work practices and to show how the adoption of energy efficient methods and practice is not just

good for the environment – it’s good for business too.

Content

Become an Energy Efficiency Expert

Provide Energy Saving Solutions

Making Energy Efficiency Standard Business Practice

Promote and Use Energy Efficiency Training

Become an Advocate for Sustainable Energy Use

NECAQ SUSTAINABILITY PROGRAM 2011

Developed with the support of the Department of Environment and Resource Management

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Become an Energy Efficiency Expert The cost of energy is an issue that impacts on everybody. Domestic users want to know what they can do to reduce the size of their electricity bills. Commercial businesses are always looking for ways to control costs and the cost of energy is a key consideration. Many companies and individuals are also concerned about the impact of excessive energy use on the climate and the environmental consequences. Electricians can help. Everyday across Queensland, there are thousands of interactions between electricians and their commercial and domestic customers that offer an opportunity for the provision of advice on energy efficient products, services and approaches. As well as being good customer service, the provision of expert advice makes good business sense. An electrician is the most appropriate person to provide advice on electrical efficient products and is the only person who is authorised to install and commission many of these products. There are many opportunities for electricians to encourage energy efficient installations as they are regularly maintaining, repairing and upgrading installations in domestic, commercial and industrial premises.

Assisting commercial and domestic customers to find the best and most efficient electrical products, reducing operating costs and cutting electricity bills is in everyone’s interests. Many electrical companies have already recognised the value of offering a broader range of energy efficient and environmentally sustainable services. Initiatives such as the NECA EcoSmart Electrician program are providing the skills and encouragement for electricians to expand their services. However, there is still some way to go before the electrical industry has the general expertise and the public recognition to offer a comprehensive energy efficiency service. A casual look at any description of the electrical contracting industry and the role of an electrician identifies the issue. The typical description of the electrical contracting industry taken from a standard internet search is as follows:



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The electrical contracting industry covers a wide range of services to the community which include design, installation, alternation and maintenance carried out in the following areas:

Installation of electrical equipment Switchboard maintenance Installation of electrical wiring systems Testing and connection of electrical installations Diagnosing and repair of faults in electrical equipment Responding to breakdown of electrical equipment

Type “What does an electrician do?” into a search engine and it’s likely that you will get similar responses to the two descriptions provided below:

What does an Electrician do?

Read, electrical, architectural and mechanical diagrams, drawings or specifications to determine job requirements.

Plan the layout of wiring systems. Test for, locate and repair electrical malfunctions. Install electrical and electronic control systems. Assemble and fabricate electrical and electronic components and appliances. Connect electrical and electronic components to power supplies. Maintain automated production processes.

What does an Electrician do?

Whether it's a blown fuse, a tripped circuit breaker or a more complicated problem, such as a faulty wiring system in your house, electricians are the people to call. Using a wide range of tools, from screwdrivers, pliers, sidecutters and power drills through to computers, they deal with electrical and electronic installations and repairs. Electricians install, maintain and repair electrical wiring systems that are designed to provide creature comforts such as heat, light, power and telecommunications systems or safety features such as signals or fire and security alarms. The duties and responsibilities for electricians vary between positions. Generally speaking, electricians read and interpret electrical or electronic drawings to determine wiring layouts. They install cables and connect switches (like the ones you turn your light on with). In undertaking these tasks, electricians operate a number of hand and power tools including electric screwdrivers or wire-cutters. These tools are also used when electricians assemble and install equipment such as



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electrical conductor enclosures and fittings. Electricians also test various appliances and circuits, ensuring their integrity and safety. If needed, they'll repair and replace any faulty electrical apparatus.

So whether, it’s the short dot point description or the more appealing longer explanation, there is no mention of the advice, support, assistance or services the electrical contracting sector or individual electricians could offer in relation to energy efficiency. Does the absence of energy efficiency as part of the standard descriptions of the industry and individual electrician role mean that this advice and service does not exist? That’s not the case.

There are many electrical contractors throughout Australia who have already positioned themselves as ‘green electricians’ or energy efficient electricians’ and are using this positioning to create broader business opportunities. Some electricians wear their environmental consciousness proudly and are focusing exclusively on ‘green power’ services. Others are more pragmatic and have established energy efficient services to complement other services they offer. Regardless of the motivation, as the examples below show, there are already electrical contracting companies and individual electricians throughout Australia providing a broad range of energy efficient advice and services. Example 1

Environmentally conscious electricians servicing Melbourne.

We offer:

Commercial Service & Maintenance Electrical Construction Voice & Data Solar Power Supply & Installation Domestic Services

Not just electricians … We provide Energy Solutions for a Sustainable Future! As one of Melbourne’s leading providers of Electrical Services, we have been exceeding client expectations for the last 13 years.

We can help YOU with your electrical maintenance needs using the latest energy saving & renewable energy alternatives available.

Here’s Proof: A property manager company that manages various properties including two shopping centres.



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We helped them achieve the following outcomes;

• Reduced maintenance cost by 90% • Cost savings of $9,200 each year ongoing • Payback period 1.25 years • 100 tonnes CO2 saved

We don’t just talk about sustainability….We live it!

Example 2

Our Green Electricians are specially trained about green solutions

Green Electricians are almost like surgeons - they're already doctors but then they specialise.

Experienced and licensed electricians take specialised training to become green electricians - they learn how to install electrical solutions that are energy efficient and understand different electrical products and technology.

Once training is completed, the electrician will get a formal qualification as a green electrician.

What kind of solutions do our Green Electricians cover?

Pretty much anything electrical related that makes your home more energy efficient. We can advise on:

changing light bulbs or your appliances focus quite heavily on the use of solar throughout your house. converting a house over a period of time, starting small and adding more solar

energy over a period of time to suit your budget using energy efficient materials off peak electricity

Example 3

We are an accredited EcoSmart Electrical Company.

This accreditation is earned by undertaking extensive training in the areas of electrical energy efficiency. With this knowledge we are able to provide you with the latest cost effective ways to save electricity and money plus help the environment.

We can supply and recommend a range of energy efficient products for both home and office. Tell us what you want and let us create electricity solutions to suit. Let us help you:

1. Improve the Australian environment



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2. Reduce your carbon footprint 3. Reduce power consumption 4. Save you money 5. Motivate others to change the world 6. Feel better about the future

Our most popular service for energy saving is installing energy efficient commercial and industrial lighting. It’s amazing how much money you can save once we’ve been through your office or factory!

Example 4

DO YOU WANT TO SAVE MONEY ON YOUR POWER BILL?

We will come into your home or business and carry out a full Energy Consumption Audit.

This audit will give you useful tips and product ideas that will help you to reduce your electricity bill and your carbon footprint at the same time!

We will guarantee you a minimum saving of $150 a year for home (households with a quarterly bill over $300) and $300 a year for businesses.

Energy Efficient Lighting Design and Installation

We will work with you to create an energy efficient lighting design plan for your home or business that will not only save you money on your electricity bill.... but will also look fantastic! There are plenty of great products on the market today that can create the look and feel you are aiming for, without costing you hundreds of dollars a year to run. So call us today to find out more!

So what do you need to do to join the many other electricians throughout Australia who are already offering energy efficient and green electrician services? What do you need to do to become an Energy Efficient Expert?



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The first step is to become informed and knowledgeable about energy consumption, energy efficient products and energy choices. If you work in the domestic electrical market find out all you can about energy use and ways of reducing this usage. The four major domestic areas for energy improvements and emission controls are;

Insulation

Hot water heating

Lighting

Appliance consumption Electricians often work in three of these areas. How much do you know about the energy use of electric hot water heaters, lighting and various electrical appliances? If a customer asked how much it cost to run various appliances, would you be able to provide an accurate answer? Developing an understanding of energy use and cost is a good starting point in becoming an Energy Efficiency Expert. The following information shows the estimated household energy consumption in Queensland for lighting, water heating and appliances during the peak summer months (December, January and February) and for the peak winter months (June, July, August). (Source: Origin Energy)



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Assist your domestic and commercial customers to develop their own energy efficiency knowledge. Provide your customers with advice and information on energy use and on how to reduce that use – and reduce their costs. Refer your customers to relevant and reputable web sites for information and advice, such as; www.business.qld.gov.au/environment/energy-saving-ideas/saving-energy-tips And www.climatesmart.qld.gov.au/get_involved/top_household_tips Providing factual and honest advice on energy use and how to reduce this usage should just be part of your normal customer service. Your expertise in the electrical area is a valuable service that your domestic and commercial customers need regular access to. Add to this expertise and become an advisor on energy use. It will help your customers and help the environment – and it is good business practice too. Advise your domestic customers to consider the following:

Lighting

In most homes, about 10-15% of the electricity bill is for lighting so energy saving lights can cut costs considerably.

By replacing just five regular incandescent lights with compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) will reduce CO2 output by around 450 kg a year and will also save around $70 a year on electricity costs.

No matter what type of lighting you are using, always turn the lights off when you leave a room.

http://www.business.qld.gov.au/environment/energy-saving-ideas/saving-energy-tips

http://www.climatesmart.qld.gov.au/get_involved/top_household_tips



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Electrical Appliances

Turn off TVs, DVD players, stereos, game consoles and other equipment at the power switch. Appliances in standby mode continue to use electricity.

Get out of the habit of using the remote control to switch off the TV or stereo and leaving the appliance to run on standby.

Items left on standby use up to 85% of the energy they would use if fully switched on.

A single mobile phone charger can produce up to 70 kg of CO2 if left plugged in when not charging.

All electrical appliances still use electricity when not in actual use if the power switch is in the on position.

Any appliance with blinking coloured lights is costing money.

Switch off the power at the plug socket to save both energy and money.

Fridge and Freezer

The location and position of a fridge can make a difference in how energy efficient it is. Make sure the fridge is out of direct sunlight and not close to the oven.

If possible, position a fridge against an outside wall so that the heat it generates can escape easily. Always make sure that there is a few centimeters of space all around the fridge so that air can circulate.

Defrost a fridge and freezer on a regular basis.



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A freezer with excessive ice will need to work harder, will use more energy and will cost more money to run.

Clothes Dryer

In most households the major energy users are the fridge and freezer closely followed by the clothes dryer. Electric tumble dryers use a huge amount of electricity when switched on.

Wherever possible avoid the use of electric clothes dryers when alternative outside of inside drying options are available.

If you do need to use the dryer, then make sure the clothes are as dry as possible after washing. Ensure the clothes have gone through a fast spin so that there is minimum excess water. This will reduce drying time considerably – and save energy and money.

Advise your commercial customers to consider the following energy efficiency and energy savings methods.

The methods and suggestions listed below may be used by businesses when small changes to current practices are being considered or when considering the purchase of new or change-over equipment and processes.

(Source: Queensland Government)

Office Equipment

Small changes

Turn off computers, monitors, printers, copiers and lights at the end of each working day. If you can't turn off the whole computer, turn off the monitor and the printer.

Reduce paper use by printing double-sided or re-using paper. Use email instead of sending memos and faxing documents.

Low cost improvements Good investments

When buying computers, monitors, printers, fax machines, and copiers, consider ENERGY STAR models that power down after a user-specified period of inactivity.

If appropriate, use laptop computers - they consume 90% less energy than standard desktop computers.

If appropriate, use inkjet printers - they consume 90% less energy than laser printers. Buy the right sized copier for your business - don't buy one that's bigger than you need.



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Lighting

Small changes

Clean dusty diffusers and lamps every 6-12 months. Turn off lights when not needed. Turn off signs and other lights not needed for security and safety.

Low-cost improvements

Substitute incandescent lamps with compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) - they use less electricity for the same lighting output.

Remove excess fluorescent lights and install reflectors. Substitute incandescent or fluorescent exit signs with long-lasting, low-energy LED exit

signs. Buy lighting fixtures that have a dimmer that allows you to manually adjust the intensity of

the light in a room.

Good investments

Install motion detectors to control lighting in frequently unoccupied areas such as restrooms and copy rooms.

Rewire restroom fans to operate with the lights. Install energy management system (EMS) technology to control lighting systems

automatically.

Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning

Small changes

Close shades during early morning and late evening to reduce heat gain from the sun. Close doors to the outside to contain air conditioning. When possible, turn the air conditioning off for the last hour of each work day. Keep room area temperatures at 18°C during winter and 25°C during summer.

Low cost improvements

Install timers or programmable thermostats to maximise efficiency of your air conditioning. Install locking covers on your thermostats to prevent people from tampering with the

temperature settings. Perform regular maintenance on units including checking ducts and pipe insulation for

damage. Clean condenser coils and replace filters regularly.



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Good investments

Replace old heating, ventilation or air conditioning systems with new, energy-efficient systems.

Install blinds or solar screen shades to cool your workplace. Install reflective window film or awnings on all south-west facing windows. Install ceiling and wall insulation. Insulate water heaters and supply pipes. Pressurise and test all ducts for leakage. Consider installing adjustable speed drives. Your air conditioning system has fans that move

air throughout the building. You can reduce the cost of operating these fans by installing adjustable speed drives that can change the speed of the fan motors to match the amount of air that is needed.

Refrigeration

Small changes

Keep fridges reasonably full and make sure there's enough room for cold air to circulate. Position fridges in a location that is well-ventilated and not exposed to direct sunlight or

heat from other equipment.

Low cost improvements

Perform scheduled maintenance on fridges. Keep evaporator coils clean and free of ice build-up. Adjust door latches and replace worn door seals. Observe any unusual noises your fridge makes, as they could indicate a problem that will

need to be fixed.

Good investments

Install automatic door-closers and strip curtains on walk-in freezers or coolers.

Compressed Air

Small changes

Make sure your compressed air system runs only when the plant is in use. Use smaller air compressors dedicated to serve minimal after-hours needs.

Reduce the discharge pressure to the minimum required by the system. Use blowers or hand sweeping for cleaning purposes.

Good investments

Install air storage strategically to minimise system horsepower requirements and improve air delivery.



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Install variable speed drives on compressors. Make sure multiple compressors are sequenced using automatic sequencing controls. Shut-

off timers should be used on all air compressors and installing microprocessor controls on compressor systems can yield savings.

Process Cooling and Refrigeration Systems

Small changes

Eliminate heat losses from leaks and improper defrosting. Freeze products in batches rather than continuously.

Good investments

Install high-efficiency evaporator and condenser fan motors. Install variable speed drives in place of constant speed drives. This can reduce cooling

system energy use. Install additional condensing capacity to reduce discharge pressure. Insulate cooler/freezer area.



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Provide Energy Saving Solutions

Electricians need to be able to identify, calculate and recommend the energy efficient choices available to their customers. Customers will have two reasons for more energy efficient choices – cost and environment. Not all customers will embrace both reasons, but all customers will respond to at least one of these reasons and as such will increasingly seek out electricians who are able to offer energy saving solutions. Consider the energy savings options you currently offer your customers. Do you provide the following services?

Energy efficiency sensors

Energy efficient lighting

Integrated and intelligent electrical systems

Heating and cooling advice and systems

Alternative energy generation and local power networks

Wireless technology

Motors, pumps and fans – efficient use

Motors, pumps and fans Electrical motor systems are by far the major consumer of electricity supply in the industrial sector. Advice and support from electrical contractors and individual electricians on motor energy efficiency can produce large energy and cost savings. Worldwide, over 30 million new electric motors are sold each year for industrial purposes. Nearly 350 million motors are in use in industry, infrastructure and large buildings across the world. These electric motors are responsible for over 40% of global electricity used to drive pumps, fans, compressors and a large variety mechanical of drive-power equipment. Electric motor systems are by far the most important type of electric load in industry, using about 70% of the consumed electricity.

The charts below show global electricity demand and the specific demand for motors and electricity consumption in the industrial sector and the consumption for motors.



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Even small adjustments in electric motor use or improvements in motor systems will produce significant cost savings and environmental benefits. Electrical contractors and individual electricians who are able to provide this type of advice and support will be in demand. The following diagram shows electrical motor efficiency and the energy saving potential from the application of some simple system additions and adjustments.



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(Source: Institute for Industrial Productivity)

The following table contains advice and information on the efficient use of pumps and fans and the set-up, operating and maintenance activities that will produce energy efficiencies. (Source: Urban Ecology Australia)



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Pumps and Fans

Many fan and pump systems are not run at their maximum efficiency.

Dampers, throttling valves, by-pass systems and pressure relief valves are often used to

reduce output to a level that matches demand. These systems are highly inefficient.

Increasing efficiency may involve a combination of actions: trimming impellers, installing

variable speed drives, improved controls or improving the efficiency of motors.

A unit of energy saved at the pump or fan saves 3.3 units at the motor, so it makes sense to

start saving energy at the end of the system and work backwards.

Other benefits of increasing your efficiency include extension of equipment life, reduction of

safety hazards and reduction of noise and vibration.

Energy Efficiency

Check your system to find out if any throttling valves or dampers are constantly restricting

the rate of flow to 10% less than its design flow rate. If so, consider impeller trimming as this

reduces energy demand (see below).

Noise and vibration may indicate efficiency problems.

The potential savings are disproportionately large - reduce your energy costs by over 80% by

halving the speed of pumps or fans.

Pump Size

Centrifugal pumps are often oversized because exact pumping requirements are not known or

may change over time. Therefore, it is important to optimise the system requirements before

specifying pumps in a system.

Oversizing may result in a pump that is continuously throttled in order to balance the system.

In such cases, a more efficient way to balance output is to trim the pump’s impeller or replace

the impeller with one of a smaller diameter, or install a Variable Speed Drive on the motor.

Fan Size

It is common for most building fan systems to be oversized by an average of 60%. This

represents an enormous amount of wasted energy. By appropriately resizing your fan system,

you can save an average of 50 percent in fan system energy costs.

Motor Size

Replacing old motors with high-efficiency types, appropriately sized, will save large amounts

of energy.

Pipe and Duct Size



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Capital saved by installing undersized piping or ductwork can be a very costly false saving,

as it puts additional loads on the fans, pumps and motors.

A 15% increase in pipe diameter can cut pressure drop in half. This allows the pump or fan

motor to be much smaller.

Minimise the number of bends and valves in pipework to reduce energy lost to friction.

Pump Impeller Trimming

If a pump is continuously throttled to 10% less than its design flow rate, trim the impeller to

reduce electrical demand by up to 25%.

Pumps appropriate for impeller trimming are those involved in a process that requires a

constant flow rate, have a partially closed discharge valve, and have no process changes

planned.

To take advantage of impeller trimming, use in-house or hired expertise to quantify pumping

process requirements, then contact your pump distributor for impeller trimming assistance.

Fan Impeller Trimming

Impeller trimming for fans can also achieve energy savings. Altering the angle of the fan

blades can reduce the load on the motor and save energy.

Turn it off

Turn off your fan or pump when it is not needed. This can be done automatically with the

installation of controls.

Slow it down

The most effective way to match output to demand and to save energy is to reduce the speed

of your load (i.e. pump or fan). Reducing a fan’s speed by 20% can reduce its energy

requirements by nearly 50%.

Variable Speed Drive (VSD)

A VSD is an electronic device that allows the motor speed of your equipment to vary

depending on actual operating conditions, rather than operating at one speed.

Varying the speed of your fans and pumps allows them to more closely match the actual load

required and automatically slow down in response to reduced demand, thereby saving energy.

Pumps and fans that use mechanical throttling are excellent candidates for VSD retrofits.

It is important to note that prolonged operation of an oversized motor with a VSD at very low

speeds can reduce the useful life of motors and other equipment. Properly sized, smaller

capacity equipment will be more suited to operation at reduced capacities.



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Maintenance

Establish a regular maintenance program to clean filters.

Clean pumps and fans to ensure maximum efficiency. Accumulation of dirt or dust can

decrease the efficiency of a fan by adding weight to it and increasing pressure loss in the

system. Important components to clean are the filters, heating coils, silencers and fan blades.

Replace worn seals and fan blades.

Use low friction coatings on the internal surfaces of pumps to improve pump efficiency.

Ensure that drive belts are in good condition, evenly matched and correctly aligned.

Energy efficient lighting For both domestic and commercial purposes, integrated lighting systems are able to make a significant contribution to energy efficient practices. These systems provide both cost-saving benefits and carbon emission reductions. Integrated and intelligent lighting systems allow for the switching arrangement in and around the building to be changed and adjusted at anytime without the need to change any wiring. Switches can be programmed as dimmers, on/off, timers, push buttons and other arrangements to suit the customer requirement. Lighting can be fitted with LUX level sensors, increasing the lifespan of lamps, saving energy and reducing the environmental impact.



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Alternative energy – solar

Solar power is rapidly developing into an all-purpose power supply across Australia. It is clean, green and highly efficient. Solar systems are used to produce stand-alone off grid power, for heating and hot water supply and for lighting purposes. The size and quantity of solar panels and batteries is dependent on the scope and size of the required power usage. Solar photo-voltaic (PV) panels will last longer and will remain in good working order when a routine maintenance process is initiated. Dirty and poorly maintained panels will produce output problems and will impact on energy efficiency.

Electricians should be at the forefront of advice and services on all aspects of energy efficiency. In addition they need to identify opportunities for organisations to save energy including opportunities where technology can be used for upgrades and retrofits, improved maintenance procedures or staff behavioural changes. Benefits of such approaches can include:

Energy and cost savings

Specialist energy advice and technical support

Help to measure and understand energy use

Assistance with project implementation

Opportunities to network and share energy efficiency ideas



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Opportunity to link energy audits with a star rating of the environmental performance of existing buildings.

Electricians can become the customer’s trusted advisor and first point of contact for all energy queries. To do this there needs to be a focus on:

Branding and marketing material to enable them to promote their knowledge of

energy efficient installations and products to your customers

On-going technical information and support

Advertising support

Access to industry experts, providing up-to-date technical and marketing advice and

support

Access to complimentary courses



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Making Energy Efficiency Standard Business Practice Electrical contractors need to understand that good environmental performance reduces risk, lowers costs, improves productivity and enhances reputation. They need to make sense of all the noise about sustainability, pinpoint how their business can benefit and provide a clear path for action. A move to sustainable and energy efficient practices the normal and standard business practice for an electrical contractor should not necessarily create extra administrative work. Rather than creating extra work, contractors and individual electricians can focus their efforts to deliver the best results for their company and for the environment by reducing energy usage, making the shift to a low carbon economy and doing their bit for the environment. This will include:

Managing environmental risk and ensuring compliance

Using resources more efficiently

Integrating environmental strategies with business planning

Measuring their carbon footprint and managing their emissions

Enhancing supplier and community relationships

Engaging and training staff to become an employer of choice

As with most things in life, the best place to start is with a plan!

Smart companies are now weaving environmental sustainability into their business planning strategies. Even smarter companies are encouraging the direct involvement of their employees in the sustainability process.

The key focus of a company’s sustainability activity is to identify key areas of business opportunity and to provide a roadmap of how to maximize those opportunities.

The obvious additional benefit is that your company and the individuals who work in it will also be supporting environmental objectives.

The five simple steps that follow provide a model that will allow you to get the best results from your company or individual sustainability and energy efficiency plan.

Step 1 - Establish the current position

Before a business can figure out where it needs to go, it needs to know where it is. This is true with normal business planning as well as planning for more sustainable practices.



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A company that offers sustainable and energy efficient services should be able to prove its own sustainability and energy efficiency credentials.

What do you do to save power? How do you limit your own emissions and control your environmental impact?

In establishing your current position, it’s important that you use real measures.

If you cannot measure your own current position, get some external help such as a formal energy audit.

Step 2 - Identify the opportunities

When you know your own current sustainability and energy efficiency position you can decide what you need to do to address this.

How will you reduce energy consumption? What processes, applications or products will you use? Once you have established a view of your current position you will be able to identify areas for improvement.

Use this process to also identify how you might be able to use your own energy efficiency improvements to develop new business opportunities. Are there things that you will implement that will also be useful for your current or new customers?

Use your own experiences to develop, market and sell your expertise in energy efficiency

Step 3 - Implementation

Once you have identified the changes you intend to make and the energy efficiency business opportunities you intend to pursue, you need to formalize these as part of your normal business planning processes.

How will the new activities be resourced? Who will be responsible for making sure things happen when they are supposed to happen?

You will need to consider the size of the investment you intend to make and the expected return.



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Conduct a formal cost benefit analysis to make sure that there is some value from the new activities. It may be that you need to take a phased approach. Is it easier to look at your own energy efficiency measures and bed these down before looking at how these measures will assist you business activities?

Step 4 - Set deadlines

Give your plan a framework by assigning a deadline by which each implementation step will occur.

Many electrical contractors will need to do the majority of the implementation tasks themselves, but if there are individual electricians or other employees who can assist, make sure that you engage them in the process.

A successful implementation step will be good for your company, for your employees and for your customers.

Step 5 – Review and revise

A key aspect of business planning is the constant reviewing and revision that is required to keep the plan current and aligned with the business environment the company operates within.

A plan to move towards sustainable and energy efficient operation is no different.

The company’s energy performance and commitment to sustainable business practices should be regularly reviewed and actions taken to update, improve and enhance performance as required.

In applying the five steps, electrical contractors and individual electricians should also consider the following:

Environmental Risk and Responsibility - undertake risk assessment, education and training to help ensure compliance with environmental law.

Resource Efficiency - reduce waste and use less raw materials, energy and water to improve your bottom line.

Supply Chain Management - work with key suppliers and customers to get the best environmental results from products and services.

Staff Engagement - engage and train your employees and fellow workers to implement sustainability plans.



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Promote and Use Energy Efficiency Training Electrical contractors and individual electricians need to gain the knowledge, the skills, and the confidence to become an energy efficient expert and provide advice to customers on sustainable and energy efficient solutions and products. During the coming years it will become standard practice for electricians to look for the energy efficient option with every installation, job, and project. Customers will look upon an electrician as the trusted advisor will be able to provide access to a wealth of information and tools to assist them in reducing energy and reducing cost. Those electrical contractors and individual electricians who are able to demonstrate their own personal commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency will be well positioned to benefit from market demand for these services. Business owners, managers and employees who understand how to reduce carbon emissions and use energy more efficiently will help businesses save money and power, lower resource costs and improve sustainability – and will improve their own business performance in the process. Sustainability and energy efficiency training programs will build the knowledge and skills of electricians to support improved energy efficiency practices, products and services. Targeted training in these areas also has the potential to stimulate new green jobs and add green skills to existing jobs by supporting innovation, workforce development and sustainable business growth. The move to a low carbon economy will see the development of new skills and the adaption and adjustment of existing skills. It is likely that there will be a broad range of sustainability and energy efficiency training available. Programs are likely to include:

training managers and other staff to make business operations, products or services more energy efficient and less carbon intensive

customising or developing specific courses that are practical and effective for staff and businesses

measuring the benefits of the training to staff and businesses

sharing the results and benefits of the training with other organisations

customise and deliver existing energy efficiency courses to meet specific industry needs and measure the benefits

develop and test new courses and training in partnership between industry and trainers

To take advantage of current training opportunities, you should examine programs such as:

EcoSmart Electricians



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A national training and accreditation program for electricians in the rapidly growing market of energy efficiency. The program consists of a number of key elements:

An initial training course, specifically designed to provide a broad understanding of the concepts of energy efficiency utilising modern technology and products

A nationally recognized certification qualification for the electricians who undertake the training course

An accreditation system for contractors that recognizes the contractor and enables them to promote their knowledge and training as a unique selling point to their customers

A Continuing Development component designed to provide participants with an ongoing knowledge of the emerging technologies and products that directly impact energy efficiency

On-going marketing and promotional support through regular meetings exclusive to EcoSmart Electricians Accredited Contractors

A specifically designed and developed website with key industry information, links and contractor search facility

Access to marketing and sales support for specific projects The EcoSmart training course consists of four compulsory modules: * Energy management * Lighting * Pumps, fans and motors * Solar generation systems, Heating and Cooling The EcoSmart Electricians training program is run in all states of Australia through the NECA State Chapters. Go to www.ecosmartelectricians.com.au for more information. Certificate IV in Electrical Photo Voltaic Systems

http://www.ecosmartelectricians.com.au/



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An accredited program that is available through a large number of public and private training providers in Queensland. Participants learn to select, install, set up, test, fault find, repair and maintain electrical systems and equipment in buildings and premises. It includes ERAC requirements for an 'Electrician's licence' and competencies to select, install, set up, test, fault find, repair and maintain photovoltaic systems and associated equipment.



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Become an Advocate for Sustainable Energy Use

There will be increasing opportunities for electricians to work with energy efficient and sustainable products and practices. The use of these products and practices will continue to increase and electricians who are well informed and who offer services in these areas are likely to be exposed to both personal and professional development experiences. There will be opportunities for electricians to promote projects and initiatives where the design, product selection, lighting, processes or technologies have created an energy efficient or sustainable installation. Similarly, there will be opportunities for electricians to work within teams of other building and construction professionals to make significant contributions to the preservation of the natural environment on a range of projects.

Electricians who become advocates for sustainable energy use will promote best practice, will maintain up-to-date knowledge and understanding of new products and will have the capacity to promote and install these new products, will be aware of the latest electrical design applications and processes and will use and promote new technologies. The electrician of the future will be required to apply trade experience, knowledge and skills well beyond the current electrical licensing and compliance requirements and the typical installation, connection and repair tasks. During the next ten tears, buildings of all types will use far more forms of electrically powered devices operated by increasingly complex technology. Building owners and occupants will be looking for someone they trust to advise them on the selection and use of these systems. There is an opportunity for the electrician to become a trusted advisor as part of a broader service delivery and advocacy role. The next ten years will also see an increasingly competitive market where energy efficiency as a pre-build necessity and as a post-occupancy evaluation requirement becomes common-place. Electricians will need to place even more emphasis on customer focused service, offering the range and quality of services the customer wants. Start thinking now about how you can become an advocate for sustainable energy use.

What areas of your knowledge base need to be improved and updated? Find out more

about sustainable buildings and energy efficiency.

The two case studies that follow provide examples of the sustainable energy practices the

electrical contracting industry is already applying. Look elsewhere for more.

(Sources: NECAQ and DERM, NECA VIC and Sustainability Victoria)



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BLE SOLAR Capalaba

Queensland

Contributing to progress in sustainable development

BLE Solar is a solar retailer focussing on the use of solar cells for generating energy for use in residential and commercial applications. The company aims to make the sustainable use of resources a reality by being a focal point for engagement and action of solar power installations.

Changes in the commercial and residential sectors are being driven by altruistic desire to act responsibly towards the environment and bottom-line incentives to reduce energy costs. Changes to government regulations, potential carbon taxes and rising energy costs make it as important as ever to reduce energy consumption.

BLE Solar does not just follow the latest trends but is actively involved in shaping the market. It supplies certified solutions for a wide range of requirements for homeowners and commercial customers through constant optimisation, expert advice, flexible use and reliability – including in new products on the market. Its strategy for sustainable development encompasses, integrating objectives on effective protection of the environment, prudent use of natural resources and high and stable levels of economic growth. Each of these sustainable development issues are keys to the overall business strategy.

BLE Solar believes it is part of their responsibility to enhance environmental awareness by motivating and educating their employees and customers.

The company fosters a philosophy of environmental responsibility into all aspects of their products and services by:

Promoting business activities that bring simultaneous economic, social and environmental benefits;

Working in partnership with community bodies, consumers and suppliers and partners;

Encouraging innovative approaches, continuing development and application of best practice in solar power installations;

Ensuring excellent levels of performance in solar power installations;

Encouraging increased awareness;

Promoting energy saving installations and environmentally friendly products The growth in demand for renewable energy has lead to a big increase in the manufacture of solar cells. Individuals or companies are encouraged into climate-friendly action by government subsidies, seeing themselves as saving money and helping the environment at the same time. Solar power plants assembled by BLE Solar installations are among the greenest forms of energy generation, producing no noise or emissions whatsoever. The construction of a system has little impact on the environment. An installation of a solar power system has many environmental advantages including:

No noise Pollution free No waste No fuel is required other than the FREE Energy

from the sun



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In supplying certified solutions for homeowners and

commercial customers, BLE Solar is supporting them to;

Reduce their carbon emissions;

Make a considerable amount of money through the Government backed Feed-In Tariff;

Make a far better long term investment than any bank or savings account.

Reduce costly electricity bills.

Protect them against electricity price increases;

Increase the value of their property

Promoting sustainability through their business to community and customers

BLE Solar through their showroom and promotions encourage the use of solar energy efficient solutions and products through product displays, supplier training and advice on efficiency ensuring cost savings, lower energy costs and less green house gas emissions. They add value to their service by:

Saving their customers money;

Offering their customer's informed choices;

Reducing their customers energy

requirements and usage;

Helping their customers reduce their carbon

footprint and reducing their negative impact

on the environment

BLE Solar packages offer huge advantages when used in applications on private homes and commercial buildings. Using Q-cell modules and SMA inverters BLE Solar is equipped with the expertise and technology to design construct and maintain a utility scale plant of any size offering;

excellent efficiencies;

Industry leading performance;

Minimal losses due to heat;

outstanding low-light behaviour and longevity

that create an excellent foundation for

achieving high, reliable energy yields

BLE Solar products are environmentally friendly - solar power is the fastest growing renewable energy source, mainly because no fossil fuels are burnt in any part of the process. (For each kilowatt hour produced with fossil fuels, 0.68kg of carbon dioxide is released into the environment and put simplistically every person can use on average 600-800 kilowatt hours of energy every month)

What does mean in Operation - A 3kW Solar System, fitted correctly on a domestic property roof should produce approximately 3000kWh (kilowatt hours) of electricity per annum. To put this in perspective the average domestic property electricity usage is 6kWh per day. Less than 3kWh should operate the lighting in the domestic property for approximately one week when low energy light bulbs are installed

What Can You Do With a kWh of Electricity?

Have an electric shave 1200 times

Listen to 15 of your favourite CD’s

Heat 20 frozen meals in your microwave

Using 60W incandescent lamps light the house for 4 evenings

High energy yields are achieved by the use of specialised software to design and monitor individual systems, with the ability to work out:

NOMINAL POWER RATIOS

CABLE LOSSES %,

ENERGY USABILITY FACTOR

PERFORMANCE RATIOS ACTIVE POWER PERFORMANCE MONITORING



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In addition all solar products supplied and installed by BLE Solar have passed vigorous in-house testing for quality, performance and reliability. This ensures we only use the highest quality and most reliable products on the market

Building energy efficiency and good environmental performance into ‘business’ as usual

One of BLE Solars key objectives is to constantly improve its product offering so that it can provide its customers with

optimal returns in terms of quality, installations, logistics and energy consumption. BLE Solar is one of the only solar

retailers in Australia that operates every aspect of the company in-house, from the sale to the installation and

maintenance of the system. All BLE Solar designers, engineers and installers are employed in-house directly by the

company providing a uniform policy on all aspects of solar power projects. Customers are assigned a project manager

who oversees the project from start to finish. Clients benefit from one-stop solutions and enjoy the full reliability and

efficiency resulting from Q-Cells' technical and commercial expertise.

As part of the installation BLE Solar supports their customers to monitor the performance of their system. The power output can be numerically and graphically assessed and production data can be stored and reviewed by customers at their leisure. Whether for a small home system or a large solar park – central administration and monitoring of solar plants saves time and money. The yields of all inverters in a plant are compared fully automatically, permitting detection of even the smallest deviations.

Promoting Energy Efficiency Training Programs

The company is aware of the numerous drivers in all market segments - domestic, commercial and industrial - that are creating an increasing demand for energy efficient and sustainable/or environmentally-friendly installations, technology and products. It has had to consider a range of programs to help employees be better equipped and trained to take

advantage of these new business opportunities.

Skills needs identified for the company have included;

Industry accreditations for sustainable energy systems, particularly the Clean Energy Council accreditation for Grid connected photovoltaic systems and NECAs Ecosmart electrician.

Targeting skills required to deliver on Government incentive schemes, such as the Renewable Energy Certificates Incentive Scheme.

Covering skill needs in new technologies such as smart meters and integrated data systems, integrated energy management systems and more.

Covering skill needs in energy auditing and performance monitoring,

For residential projects, BLE Solar do it all - design, installation, maintenance, government paperwork – they provide the best products on the market with the highest reliability and performance, ensuring the fastest return on a customer’s investment. They handle all the rebate paperwork for all projects in order to make the process run as smooth as possible

For commercial projects, BLE Solar maintains the

highest quality service for small and large scale

commercial buildings from the design, supply

installation, maintenance and monitoring of the

project.

The process of assembling a solar power system from design and installation to the subsequent monitoring and maintenance of the building for

energy efficiency has had implications for the integration of energy efficient skills into the

training needs of employees

Auditing and reporting;

Installation and maintenance of energy-efficient systems to meet revised building

standards;

Assessment of new and existing buildings against rating systems;

Monitoring data output from systems and ‘tuning’ buildings for peak performance



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Assessing and providing advice on energy efficiencies, monitoring and reporting energy usage and more.

Meeting the needs for employees skills in grid connected solar energy systems.

Development of skill sets to support installation of new technologies such as grid connected photovoltaic systems and smart meters.

Renewable energy units with a view to ensuring they meet the needs of current and emerging applications.

The development of skills for the design and installation of grid connected solar arrays that provide a specialisation pathway for both qualified electricians and apprentice


Workshop Resource Notes – Developed with the support of the Department of Environment and Resource Management

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