Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UK face unique challenges when it comes to managing energy costs. With the energy price cap changes and market volatility, it's more important than ever for business owners to implement effective energy-saving measures.
Top 5 strategies
- Energy Efficiency Upgrades: Consider investing in LED lighting, which uses up to 75% less energy than traditional bulbs. The government's Business Energy Efficiency Programme offers grants covering up to 30% of the costs for SMEs.
- Smart Metering: Over 2.3 million UK businesses have already switched to smart meters, helping them track energy usage in real-time and identify wastage. Smart meters can reduce energy bills by an average of 12% for small businesses.
- Flexible Energy Contracts: Work with business energy brokers to secure flexible contracts that allow you to take advantage of market dips. Many SMEs save 15-20% by switching from standard variable tariffs.
- Renewable Energy Options: The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) allows businesses to sell excess renewable energy back to the grid. Solar panel installations can provide ROI within 5-7 years for many SMEs.
- Staff Engagement: Simple behavioral changes can lead to 10-15% energy savings. Implement an energy awareness program and consider appointing an 'energy champion' among staff.
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