JPS offers energy reduction tips

Businesses are being advised to protect their bottom line as the summer heatwave can cause energy bills to skyrocket.

Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) Customer Service Area Manager for the Eastern Region, Ruthlyn Johnson told JIS News that commercial customers should first request a utility audit or energy assessment to determine average usage. She suggested that businesses can monitor and manage energy consumption by using smart meters.

“You’re able to see your consumption monthly, weekly, daily, right down to hourly and that in itself gives persons the power of control,” she said. Businesses can also track power usage peaks and alter operations to avoid them.

Johnson advised businesses to work actively to maintain consumption at a particular level. She said businesses must ensure that any actions in their operations maintain the average energy consumption.

“Because once the equipment goes on the grid, it is going to consume electricity and you’re going to have to pay for it,” she explained. Johnson emphasised that machinery must be properly maintained for optimal performance, as, if they are not at that level, they may be pulling more power than necessary.

Another factor that spikes electricity consumption is the use of electronics that consume power even when turned off. It is advised that coffee makers, backup printers, and chargers are unplugged overnight. Johnson said it is especially important that air-conditioning (AC) units are serviced regularly.

“You don’t want them to be filled with dust and lint and all of those things that are pulling more power than they should and then causing you to spend more on electricity,” she said. Johnson said doors and windows should be properly sealed and remain closed when the AC is in use, for optimal performance. She noted that AC units should be kept between 24 to 25 degrees for optimal cooling.

For residential purposes, when returning home after a long day, householders are advised to open windows, curtains and doors and use fans where possible to ventilate spaces prior to turning on the AC unit. She also warned against running the AC unit continuously all night. Johnson recommended that JPS customers install inverter AC systems, use programmable thermostats, install solar water heaters, replace lighting with LED bulbs, and switch off or unplug appliances when not in use. Customers should also ensure all seals on heating and electrical appliances are in good working order and replace aged appliances that do not utilise electricity efficiently.