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Environment Agency reduces voltage to cut carbon emissionsThe Environment Agency is to cut energy use and carbon emissions by around 12 per cent by using voltage power optimisation technology in 33 of its buildings. Voltage power optimisation reduces the incoming voltage of electricity supplied to a building to a level that powers electrical equipment without excess energy. This should cut the agency's carbon emissions by between 700 and 900 tonnes annually and reduce its electricity bills by between £160,000 and £200,000. The new scheme will pay for itself in just three to four years, according to the agency. Graham Ledward, director of resources at the Environment Agency said: "The UK has a target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80 per cent by 2050. This is a difficult but vital task if we are to prevent severe climate change. However, improved environmental performance does not have to mean increased costs. In fact, good environmental performance makes business sense because it can cut costs. "From April 2010 many large businesses and public sector organisations including the Environment Agency will need to register under the Government's CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme, which is designed to reduce carbon emissions. I would encourage businesses to see this as an opportunity, to build environmental credibility and save money." A trial of voltage optimisation in eight Environment Agency buildings resulted in a reduction in electricity usage of between 10 and 18 per cent, which equated to a £54,000 saving in the first year alone and a carbon reduction of around 281 tonnes. Source: Utility Week © Faversham House Group Ltd 2009. News articles may be copied or forwarded
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