Computers & Printers

For many of us, our working life revolves around our computers. What things could you do to reduce the amount of energy your computer and printer are consuming?

1. Turn off your computer (or at least the monitor) whenever you are away from your desk for more than 30 minutes.
2. Adjust your power management settings to put your screen to sleep if it is not in use for more than five minutes.
3. Do not use screen saver function; this does not save energy. Set your screen saver t‘none’ or ‘blank screen’.
4. Switch computers, monitors and printers off when not in use.
5. Ensure power management functions on printers (ie. to 'sleep' when not in use) are operational.
   

How to Calculate Your Baseline

Calculating your organisation's baseline correctly, is central to this competition.

The baseline reflects how much electricity you are using now. We will compare your electricity usage during Sustainable September to your baseline, in order to determine your organisation's percentage decrease in electricity usage.

There are a few different ways to work out your baseline.

1. August Meter Readings - For the most accurate baseline calculation, you'll need to do a little bit of work in August. In early August you should read your organisation's electricity meter, and write down the date, time and meter reading. Then, approximately 21 days after you take the first meter reading (and at approximately the same time), you should take a second meter reading. Taking the second meter reading at approximately the same time is important, as your baseline will actually be the average number of units (kilowatt hours - kWh) you use per day (ie. in a 24 hour period). For more information about how to read your electricity meter, click here.
   
2. Previous bill - Another way to calculate your baseline is to take a look at your most recent Synergy electricity bill. On the bill you will be able to see total units (kWh) over the billing period, as well as the number of days in the billing period - giving a units/day measure.

Once you've determined your baseline, you should email a) the baseline and b) the usage over what period of time the baseline reflects - to sarah.mumme@wa.uca.org.au.