It's important when talking about energy conservation to understand that it's not about doing without, it's about being more efficient. For example, a relatively simple way new commercial construction can save energy is by investing in energy-efficient windows. These windows help to regulate internal temperatures, reducing the demand on furnaces and air conditioning systems, which by design use a lot of energy. Other savings can be found by using highly efficient insulation and by using insulation in the most effective way. There are also a number of alternative building materials that achieve a higher level of energy efficiency, and are environmentally friendly too.
Ventilation is the least expensive and most energy-efficient way to cool buildings.
And perhaps one of the most important ways a new-construction commercial site can consume energy is to install intelligent thermostats and control systems. There are many things businesses can do in the short term, which will result in long term savings. The first place to start is to develop a power management plan. Identify areas in your business that use excess energy and work your way down to more simple measures, such as simply switching off the lights. There are power management tools you can use that shift office equipment into low-energy mode when not in use for a certain period of time.