Electricity costs for businesses have risen dramatically throughout recent years. Since 2002 gas prices have shot up and this in turn has had a knock on effect on electricity prices. Our energy prices, as with domestic rates, depend on wholesale gas prices. With our natural resources dwindling faster than expected and oil prices having gone through the roof the UK now has to import more gas from Europe to meet demand. The combination of these factors has resulted in electricity prices going up.
Businesses of all sizes are looking to cut the cost of their energy bills. A two pronged approach to reducing business electricity bills needs to be adopted in order to ensure that business overheads don’t continue to rise faster than profit levels.
1. Reducing the amount of electricity used
It stands to reason that when reducing the amount of electricity a business uses that the amount they have to pay also decreases. By adopting energy efficient ethos throughout a workplace and ensuring that everyone plays a part in cutting unnecessary electricity use business owners will quickly notice the difference.
A few simple steps to reducing electricity and therefore reducing business electricity costscan be implemented immediately and with little or in some cases no cost to owners.
• By switching off appliances such as printers, coffee makers, copy machines and other common appliances when they are not in use will result in a drop in electricity usage. It’s also worth remembering that anything left on standby is actually using almost as much electricity as an fully switched on machine.
• When replacing appliances in work, an energy efficient machine will use less energy and work more efficiently. This is a win / win situation all around and will also reduce the amount being paid out for business electricity.
• Replacing traditional light bulbs and strips with energy efficient products will make a significant difference in the amount of electricity a business uses. Business related properties don’t need to replace lighting all at once; change can be made gradually and still be effective at cutting electricity costs.
2. Choose the right provider and tariffs
It is important to ensure that you are confident in the company that provides your business electricity and gas. Business customers can discuss their needs with a dedicated business steam and will be informed what options are open with regards to tariffs and discounts.
Consider smart meters for your bases to ensure that future bills are no longer estimated. Your energy company will be able to give you more information on smart meters and whether your business is eligible to have these installed for free.
A company that will actively support your energy efficiency goals and will provide you with key information and tariffs to aid it will recognise that reducing the amount spent on business electricity and gas can make all the difference when you are fighting the price rise.
Cheap boilers: Take advantage of sales and discounts but prioritise quality
Strictly speaking a new boiler is never going to be cheap but by talking advantage of discounts and special offers it can be possible to make significant savings.
How to Pay Less for your Electricity
Electricity and gas prices are at an all-time high. Being careful with your usage makes a big difference to what you pay out, as does ensuring you are on the correct tariff. It is also worth knowing that as a residential gas and electricity consumer you may have access to benefits and discounts, dependant on your circumstances.
Top tips for saving money by using less energy in the kitchen
Saving energy and saving money go hand in hand. By becoming more energy efficient you can not only save money but can also do your bit for the environment by reducing your carbon footprint. These handy tips can help you to cut the energy you use in the kitchen.
