Five Business Types Suited to Demand Response

For many business sectors, demand response is an impactful program that can scale back power costs and contribute to overall business savings. But demand response doesn’t work for every business. Catering businesses or computing services companies don’t stand to benefit much from adopting a plan—they don’t have enough on-site facilities or energy usage needs to move the needle. However, any organization that’s already cutting energy waste through energy efficiency measures would be an ideal candidate. Businesses with large electricity loads and good control systems are a good match since demand response programs can make a real impact with minimal disruption.

Demand response events typically last for about four to six hours, so consider whether your business could handle this short-term reduction in energy demand and how it may affect the comfort and convenience of staff and customers. Here are some examples of businesses where demand response is a strong fit :

1. Supermarkets: Here, the amount of energy in cold stores could be reduced for a short period without disrupting business or damaging stock. Temperature settings can be turned down out-of-hours, and processes in warehouses, office rooms, and stock rooms can be kept to a minimum. Refrigeration units could even be replaced with more efficient systems to utilize energy to its fullest potential.
2. Industrial manufacturing plants and facilities: The least energy-intensive processes could be saved for peak times, with high energy production moved to off-peak hours. Warehouse lighting can be dimmed or switched and some facilities could utilize on-site generation.
3. Universities: Lighting, heating, and air conditioning can be reduced or lowered in different rooms and across different sites. Lighting, heating, and air conditioning in areas like cafes and communal areas could be reduced during peak hours.
4. Hospitals: Backup power generation facilities could easily be switched on during peak times. Similar to universities, many hospitals have lounges and cafeterias where systems such as lighting could be turned down. Processes including dish-washing and laundry could also be rescheduled to other times of day to reduce overall energy spend and grid stress.
5. Commercial Offices: There can be easy savings by ensuring that computer power management systems are switched on. Drink fountains and vending machines don’t need to be turned on 24-7. Power strips can be used to ensure appliances and equipment aren’t left in standby mode.

If you’re considering implementing a demand response program or want to hear more about cost-saving energy options, contact our team to explore available plans and let us customize a power program that serves your specific needs.