Comparison of energy costs and environmental friendliness between an electronic and a paper bill
Energy costs
The calculation of energy costs for electronic invoices compared to paper invoices can be carried out on the basis of standard values. Here is a simplified estimate:
Electronic invoices:
The energy consumption for data transmission via e-mail is very low and can often be neglected. Assume 0.001 kilowatt hours (kWh) per electronic invoice.
Paper invoices:
The energy consumption for printing a page of paper varies depending on the printer, but we can use an average value of about 0.05 kWh per printed page.
The energy consumption for transporting a paper invoice to the customer can also vary, but we assume it is 0.1 kWh per paper invoice delivered.
Let’s assume a company produces and sends 1,000 invoices per month:
Electronic invoices:
Data transmission: 1,000 invoices x 0.001 kWh/invoice = 1 kWh
Paper invoices:
Printing: 1,000 invoices x 0.05 kWh/invoice = 50 kWh
Transportation: 1,000 invoices x 0.1 kWh/invoice = 100 kWh
In this simplified example, the energy costs for electronic invoices would be 1 kWh, while the energy costs for paper invoices would be 150 kWh. Please note that this is a rough estimate and actual costs may vary depending on specific circumstances. To determine exact costs, companies should consider their individual energy consumption data and energy prices.
Environmental friendliness
Electronic invoices:
CO2 emissions: Lower emissions compared to physical mailing, depending on the energy source of the servers.
Conservation of resources: No use of paper, which saves forest resources.
Electronic waste: In the long term, electronic invoices can lead to more electronic waste (old hardware).
Paper invoices:
Paper consumption: leads to deforestation and can affect biodiversity.
Chemicals: The printing process can release chemical substances that are harmful to the environment.
Waste: Paper invoices can lead to an increased amount of solid waste.
Conclusion
Energy efficiency: Electronic invoices are generally more energy efficient, especially when powered by renewable energy.
Environmental impact: Electronic invoices tend to have a lower environmental impact, particularly in terms of paper consumption and associated impacts.
However, it is important that measures are taken to minimize the environmental impact of both electronic and paper invoices. For example, companies can use renewable energy and implement paper recycling programs.
Invoice portal is powered by 100% green electricity
Hetzner Online, where the portal is hosted, uses electricity from renewable sources for the energy supply in the data center parks and relies on hydropower in Germany.
