Energy Efficiency for Event Venues: Cutting Costs While Impressing Clients

Event venues face unique energy challenges.

Fluctuating occupancy. Changing requirements. High expectations.

Yet most venues waste thousands on unnecessary energy costs.

Here’s how to change that.

The Energy Dilemma for Event Venues

Event venues need to create perfect environments for diverse functions – from conferences and weddings to exhibitions and parties.

This means lighting, heating, cooling, and powering equipment for spaces that might be packed one day and empty the next.

The result? Energy bills that eat into profits and carbon emissions that harm the planet.

But there’s a better way.

With smart energy management, event venues can reduce costs, enhance their reputation, and appeal to increasingly eco-conscious clients.

Smart Energy Solutions for Flexible Spaces

1. Lighting That Adapts to Your Needs

Lighting is crucial for creating the right atmosphere, but it’s also a major energy consumer:

• Replace all lighting with LEDs (they use 80% less energy and last 25 times longer)
• Install dimmers to adjust lighting levels based on event requirements
• Use occupancy sensors in corridors, toilets, and storage areas
• Zone lighting so only necessary areas are illuminated
• Maximise natural light where possible

These changes can reduce lighting costs by 30-50% while still creating the perfect ambiance for any event.

2. Climate Control That Makes Sense

Heating and cooling large spaces efficiently requires smart strategies:

• Implement zoning to heat or cool only the areas in use
• Install programmable thermostats that adjust based on occupancy
• Use thermal curtains to separate areas with different temperature needs
• Consider heat recovery ventilation systems to recapture and reuse heat
• Set appropriate temperatures (19-21°C for function rooms, 22-24°C for dining areas)

Remember: heating or cooling an empty space is literally throwing money away.

Technology and Systems That Save

3. Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS)

For larger venues, a BEMS can transform energy efficiency:

• Centralised control of all building systems
• Automated adjustments based on occupancy and usage
• Real-time monitoring of energy consumption
• Data insights to identify further savings opportunities

These systems typically reduce energy costs by 10% or more, quickly paying for themselves.

4. Smart Scheduling and Space Utilisation

Be strategic about how you schedule and use your spaces:

• Group similar events in the same areas to minimise heating/cooling multiple spaces
• Schedule events in sequence in the same spaces where possible
• Use smaller rooms for smaller events rather than heating/cooling large spaces
• Consider thermal efficiency when allocating spaces for different functions

5. Equipment and Appliances That Make a Difference

The equipment you use impacts your energy consumption:

• Choose energy-efficient appliances with high energy ratings
• Turn off AV equipment, projectors, and computers when not in use
• Use smart power strips that cut power to idle equipment
• Consider energy efficiency when upgrading kitchen equipment
• Maintain all equipment regularly for optimal performance

Sustainable Practices That Impress Clients

Today’s event planners increasingly look for sustainable venues:

• Promote your energy-efficient practices in your marketing materials
• Offer sustainable event packages that minimise energy use
• Provide digital alternatives to printed materials
• Implement water-saving measures alongside energy efficiency
• Consider renewable energy options like solar panels

According to ICC Belfast, sustainability is becoming a key factor in venue selection, with many clients specifically seeking venues with green credentials.

The Business Case for Energy Efficiency

Investing in energy efficiency makes financial sense:

• Reduced operating costs improve your bottom line
• Energy-efficient venues appeal to eco-conscious clients
• Sustainable practices can command premium pricing
• Lower maintenance costs for efficient equipment
• Protection against rising energy prices

Your Energy Efficiency Roadmap

1. Conduct an energy audit to identify your biggest energy users
2. Implement low-cost measures first (LED lighting, smart controls)
3. Train staff on energy-saving practices
4. Consider larger investments based on potential returns
5. Promote your energy-efficient practices to clients

Ready to make your event venue more energy-efficient? Contact Link Utility Consultants today for a free energy procurement assessment and discover how we can help you secure the most competitive energy contracts for your venue.