• Environment -> Climate Change and Sustainability

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How can businesses incorporate renewable energy into their day-to-day operations?

Tishie Merfin

Well, there are multiple ways in which businesses can start incorporating renewable energy into their day-to-day operations. First and foremost, they can opt for solar panels or wind turbines to generate electricity. This not only helps in reducing emissions but also cuts down on electricity bills in the long run.

According to a report by the International Energy Agency, solar power is the cheapest source of electricity in history. With technology evolving at a rapid pace, the efficiency and affordability of solar panels have drastically improved. Consequently, more and more businesses are turning towards solar power. For instance, Google has pledged to run its data centers on 100% renewable energy. In 2019, it signed contracts for an additional 1.2 GW of renewable energy.

Another way in which businesses can incorporate renewable energy is by signing up for green energy programs. These programs allow companies to buy renewable energy credits or certificates that help in financing the development of renewable energy projects. In the US, green energy programs like Green-e, EPA’s Green Power Partnership, and RE100 have been instrumental in encouraging businesses to shift towards renewable energy.

Apart from this, businesses can also strive towards energy efficiency by using LED light bulbs, smart thermostats, and energy-efficient appliances. These reduce energy consumption and help businesses save significant amounts on their electricity bills. A comprehensive study conducted by the McKinsey Global Institute shows that a low-carbon pathway can save the global economy $26 trillion by 2030, with energy efficiency being the most cost-effective way to achieve this goal.

At the end of the day, businesses have to realize that renewable energy is not just a fad but a necessity. The world is at the threshold of a climate crisis, and it is the responsibility of every individual and every business to do their bit towards reducing emissions. There is no one size fits all solution, and hence, businesses have to assess their energy consumption patterns, implement effective measures to reduce energy usage, and shift towards renewable energy sources. And the good news is that not only is renewable energy the right thing to do, but it is also economically viable and sustainable.