GREEN BUSINESS VIEWS

Posts Tagged ‘green computing’

A recent article cites the fact that an estimated $2.8 million is lost in energy use due to the Phantom Load of computer systems in their idle and off position.  During these idle hours, the computers (and their peripherals) are not completely off.  The greater reduced energy consumption comes from two aspects of the computer.  The first is when the computer is in standby but can be powered up in less time than a full boot.  This is convenient and frankly helpful for computers that can go to standby during brief periods of non use.

Secondly, when the computer is fully powered down, it still draws power from the system.  This is the phantom load being addressed by more articles about energy management.  To defeat this problem, it is strongly suggested that each work station install a low-cost fix by putting in a powerstrip with a turn off switch.  Be careful to power down your computer systems first or you might cause problems for your computer.  Then turn off the whole system (monitor, printer, drives, etc) by pressing the powerstrip off switch.

Secondly, look for the EnergyStar emblem on your computer equipment that will also indicate that the energy consumption is considered in your next purchase.  EnergyStar is a government program designed to promote energy efficient appliances in homes and businesses.

Finally, consider talking with an area Certified Green Consultant in your area.  They are trained to address a variety of Green IT issues as well as a broader array of operational issues that can save your home or office more money and make your facility healthier.  In the long run, the cost of a Certified Green Consultant is nearly zero or actually returns money in the savings realized on a variety of issues that makes Green a smart economical decision as well as the environmental contribution to our collective world issues.    Every business will need Green certification in the near future, you might as well do it right and learn how to save thousands of dollars with expert advice.