Small Business Benefitting from Renewable Energy

The American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) recently reported that more than 2,800 megawatts of wind energy industry was installed in the United States over the of the first quarter of 2009. In addition, pending legislation could call for a mandate that 25 percent of the country’s electricity be generated from renewable sources by 2025.

An aspect of business sustainability is making informed choices regarding the procurement of a business’s energy source. Working with small businesses as sustainability consultants, we see businesses reevaluating their energy consumption and evaluating new business sustainability strategies to reduce cost. With an increase in renewable energy options, new doors are opening for businesses to evaluate renewable options.

According to a 2008 report by KPMG, large multinational organizations, who have made public commitments to reduce their footprints, are implementing renewable energy sourcing policies. Small businesses are following suit.

Working with small businesses in our professional consulting practice, our clients have discovered they can reduce their utility bills and impact on the environment by using renewable energy and energy efficient technologies. There are a number of renewable energy technologies that small businesses can use, whether in a home office, small office, or commercial building.

Companies both large and small are benefiting from the use of renewable energy by reducing operational cost, reducing business risk and by supporting sustainable development and stimulating growth in our economy.