The 3 kEys 

• Phantom power consumption is particularly problematic with printers, microwaves, and chargers, which can collectively account for up to 10% of an office’s total electricity usage. 

• For computers and monitors, enabling automatic sleep mode can cut energy use by 30–60% during periods of inactivity.   

• Printers, copiers, and multifunction devices also consume substantial power, particularly older models that lack advanced power management.   

In office environments, plug loads often represent an overlooked yet significant component of energy consumption.  With the increasing reliance on electronic devices, plug loads can account for up to 30% of an office’s total electricity usage. 

Facilities Managers are uniquely positioned to implement strategies that reduce energy waste from plug loads without disrupting productivity or requiring major capital investments.  By understanding the operational aspects of office plug loads and applying low and no-cost interventions, organizations can achieve immediate energy savings. 

This guide provides an in-depth exploration of plug load management strategies, from occupant engagement to advanced technologies, offering actionable solutions to optimize energy efficiency in office environments. 

Understanding Office Plug Loads: What’s Consuming Energy? 

Plug loads refer to all electronic devices and appliances plugged into standard electrical outlets. These loads include computers, monitors, printers, copiers, coffee machines, vending machines, phone chargers, and various office gadgets.  While some devices are essential for daily operations, many consume energy unnecessarily due to inefficient usage patterns, standby power draw, and outdated technology. 

A significant issue with plug loads is phantom power consumption, also known as standby or vampire power. Many electronic devices continue to draw electricity even when they appear to be turned off.  This phenomenon is particularly problematic with printers, microwaves, and chargers, which can collectively account for up to 10% of an office’s total electricity usage. 

Facilities Managers can mitigate this waste by identifying key sources of plug load energy consumption and employing targeted solutions to reduce unnecessary power usage. 

Engaging Occupants in Energy-Saving Practices 

One of the most effective yet often overlooked strategies for reducing plug load energy consumption is behavioral change.  Facilities managers can implement engagement initiatives to encourage employees to adopt energy-efficient practices. 

A starting point is education and awareness.  Employees should be made aware of how their daily habits impact energy consumption.  For example, studies have shown that employees often leave computers, monitors, and task lights on overnight, wasting a significant amount of energy.  Implementing clear policies and reminders—such as posters, email campaigns, and digital dashboards—can reinforce best practices. 

Beyond awareness, Facilities Managers should ensure that energy-efficient habits are as seamless as possible. Providing automated solutions, such as scheduling software that powers down equipment after office hours, can make energy-saving effortless and consistent. 

Implementing Power Management Settings on Office Equipment 

Leveraging power management settings is a simple yet powerful way to reduce plug load energy use without requiring active participation from employees.  Most office equipment, including computers, monitors, and printers, come with built-in energy-saving features that significantly lower power consumption when devices are idle. 

For computers and monitors, enabling automatic sleep mode can cut energy use by 30–60% during periods of inactivity.  The U.S. Department of Energy recommends configuring computers to enter sleep mode after 15 minutes of inactivity and turning off completely after 30 minutes of non-use. 

Page 3 of NREL’s Plug-Load Control and Behavioral Change Research breaks down by appliance what can be the expected percentage impact on savings when utilizing various forms of control.  It’s a great little spreadsheet. 

Printers, copiers, and multifunction devices also consume substantial power, particularly older models that lack advanced power management.  Facilities Managers should ensure that all office printers are set to enter low-power or sleep mode when not in active use.  If a device does not support these settings, replacing it with an ENERGY STAR-certified model can deliver immediate energy savings. 

Additionally, many offices use projectors and conference room AV equipment that remain powered on throughout the day, even when meetings are not occurring.  Implementing automatic shutoff settings or equipping meeting rooms with occupancy sensors can prevent unnecessary energy use. 

Utilizing Advanced Power Strips (APS) to Eliminate Standby Loads 

One of the most effective no-cost solutions for reducing plug load energy consumption is deploying advanced power strips (APS). Unlike traditional power strips, APS devices automatically detect when equipment is not in use and cut off power to prevent standby losses. 

There are several types of APS that facilities managers can implement: 

• Timer-Based APS: These power strips shut off power at scheduled times, ideal for devices that are only used during business hours. 

• Occupancy-Sensing APS: Equipped with motion detectors, these power strips shut down devices when no movement is detected in the area. 

• Load-Sensing APS: These strips monitor the primary device (such as a computer) and cut power to peripherals (such as printers and speakers) when the primary device is turned off. 

By strategically installing APS in employee workstations, break rooms, and shared spaces, facilities managers can prevent unnecessary energy waste without requiring employees to manually power down devices.  Ecova has done some research on their use, included in their publication Commercial Office Plug Load Savings and Assessment, and I think you’ll find it to be helpful. 

Optimizing Office Kitchen and Break Room Appliances 

Office kitchens and break rooms often house some of the most energy-intensive plug loads. Appliances such as refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, and vending machines contribute to continuous energy consumption, much of which can be reduced with simple interventions. 

A key strategy is to replace outdated appliances with ENERGY STAR-certified models, which are designed to use up to 40% less energy than standard units.  For existing appliances, implementing smart controls can further reduce consumption.  For example, vending machines can be equipped with occupancy-based controllers that power down the cooling system when the area is unoccupied. 

Additionally, facilities managers should ensure that kitchen appliances are unplugged when not in use.  Coffee makers, toasters, and microwaves can all be connected to timer-based APS or smart plugs to automatically cut power after business hours. 

Conducting Regular Plug Load Assessments and Energy Audits 

To maintain long-term energy efficiency, facilities managers should regularly assess plug load energy consumption and identify opportunities for improvement.  Conducting periodic plug load audits can provide valuable data on where and how energy is being used, enabling targeted interventions. 

One approach is to use smart metering or submetering technology to monitor plug loads in real time.  These tools can identify high-energy-consuming devices and track patterns of wasteful energy use.  Facilities Managers can then develop customized strategies based on actual consumption data. 

Additionally, consider collaborating with energy consultants or utility programs that offer free or low-cost energy audits.  These assessments provide professional insights into plug load inefficiencies and recommend specific corrective actions. 

The Big Finish 

Facilities Managers play a crucial role in optimizing plug load energy consumption, ensuring that offices operate efficiently while minimizing energy waste.  By engaging employees in energy-saving practices, implementing power management settings, utilizing advanced power strips, optimizing kitchen appliances, and conducting regular plug load assessments, substantial energy savings can be achieved without significant investments. 

Not only do these strategies lead to lower electricity bills, but they also contribute to sustainability goals, helping organizations reduce their carbon footprint. A proactive approach to plug load management ensures that offices remain efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally responsible.