UK businesses facing volatile energy price increases without the safety net of a price cap like that enjoyed by householders are looking for ways to cut back ahead of winter and stark forecasts for 2025.
New price forecasts warn of even steeper hikes ahead. By April 2025, the average annual energy bill for small businesses is expected to reach £13,264, while larger retail and leisure venues may face annual costs of up to £550,000.
Many business owners have been forced to review their energy usage and look into creative ways to cut back – and offices are a notorious culprit for energy wastage. Green Alliance found that UK businesses can rack up a staggering £60 million in wasted energy annually.
Renewable energy surveyor, James Welland of Go Green Power offers five tips for UK businesses looking to reduce their energy bills and become more sustainable this winter.
Get the most out of office appliances
“From air conditioning units to desktops, projectors and lighting, offices are full of energy-hungry appliances,” says Welland. “However, there are a few simple ways to be smart about how these are used.”
Even small changes as straightforward as using the eco-setting on dishwashers and only running full loads can help stack up energy and cost savings.
Being savvy with the devices you use in the office is key. When it’s time to upgrade, consider the energy rating of different models, and opt for energy-saving alternatives. For example, laptops tend to use 85% less electricity annually – so consider these over desktop PCs.
Skipping unnecessary appliances such as hand dryers and going paperless can also have a big impact on carbon footprint, as well as cutting down on electricity costs.
Make smart lighting choices
“Another great place to start is lighting, as this is one of the biggest hitters for offices. Switching lighting to LEDs has the potential to save businesses 85% – 90% on lighting costs.”
Almost half of business electricity usage also happens outside of regular office hours, so implementing light sensors can result in big energy and cost savings by reducing wastage.
Avoid leaving appliances on standby
Turning appliances off when they’re not being used, instead of leaving them on standby, is an obvious one – but it often goes overlooked and unmonitored,
“We know that offices waste significant amounts of energy,” explains Welland. “Devices in standby mode can still consume a huge amount of energy, so reducing this can lead to surprising savings.”
Computers left on standby overnight and at the weekends can still waste up to 70% of energy.
There are ‘smart’ ways to manage this, such as installing a smart meter or motion power strips (however, be careful with laptops to avoid losing unsaved work).
Heat the office effectively
“As we move into the colder months and temperatures begin to drop, heating the office can cause a big spike in energy bills. Only turn the heating on when you need it, in the rooms being used, instead of leaving it on low all the time,” advises Welland.
“If the office gets too warm when the heating comes on, turning the thermostat down – even by just one degree – can rack up big cost savings, as well as significantly reducing carbon emissions, if employees remain comfortable. Installing a smart thermostat can help monitor this.”
Some small business owners have also been lowering the flow temperature on their condensing combi boilers to save on energy bills, however, it’s important to weigh up the risks and make sure this is done safely.
Another helpful heating tip is bleeding radiators when it starts to get cold, as this frees trapped air to make sure they’re working effectively.
Similarly, improving insulation in the office can reduce heating costs, and be as extensive as you have the budget for. Simple hacks include installing reflectors behind radiators and window film to prevent losing heat through the glass.
Consider switching to green energy
“Although businesses can be sometimes deterred by the upfront cost, it’s an investment that yields huge benefits in the long run,” Welland explains.
“Solar installations can help businesses take control of their energy, stabilise costs, and significantly boost eco-credentials. As businesses face relentlessly high and unstable energy costs, the payback has never been better,” he adds.
“With the potential to reduce annual energy bills by thousands, solar has become an increasingly accessible option for UK businesses, with technological advancements and solar costs decreasing by 82%. Commercial investments now offer a full payback in around four years, and businesses may also be able to access a range of Local Council and Government grants to help cover costs.”
