Many businesses across Swindon and Wiltshire are feeling the strain of high energy costs. With the ongoing conflict in the Middle East disrupting oil supplies and sending global prices upwards, it has become even more important for businesses to take control of what they can. Improving energy efficiency is one of the simplest and most reliable ways to save money, reduce waste and strengthen your resilience against unexpected price changes.
The basic principle remains the same. Start by reducing the amount of heat and energy that is lost from your building. Then look at the equipment you use and make sure it is as efficient as possible within your budget.
Fabric first
The best place to begin is with the building itself. Office spaces often have very different insulation needs to warehouses or manufacturing areas, but in every case poor insulation will cost you money. A commercial EPC will show you where energy is being lost and what improvements would offer the best return. It will also give an idea of payback times, which have become more attractive now that energy prices are so unpredictable.
Better insulation in walls, roofs and windows is frequently one of the most effective long term investments a business can make.
Measure your energy consumption
Smart meters and Building Energy Management Systems give you a clear view of how and when you use energy. This insight is invaluable when prices move quickly. You can see where energy is being wasted, identify unusual spikes and make informed decisions rather than reacting to bills after the event.
Checking your energy bills for annual usage is also a useful way to spot patterns or opportunities to cut consumption.
1. Maintain buildings and equipment
Regular servicing helps equipment run efficiently and last longer. It also reduces the likelihood of breakdowns which can interrupt business operations. From major machinery down to the fridge in the staff kitchen, well maintained equipment uses less energy.
It is worth keeping a simple servicing log and planning ahead for replacements. When something reaches the end of its life, choosing a more efficient model will save money in the long run.
A thermographic survey can be useful for spotting hidden areas of heat loss. If upgrades are practical, additional insulation or better window glazing can make a noticeable difference.
2. Make your lighting more efficient
Replacing old fluorescent or halogen lighting with LED alternatives is one of the quickest wins available. LEDs use far less electricity while providing the same quality of light.
You may also want to use motion sensors or timers so lights only operate when needed. Even encouraging staff to turn lights off when leaving a room makes a difference over the course of a year.
3. Laptops or desktops
Many businesses have shifted towards laptops, particularly with more flexible working. Laptops use significantly less electricity than desktop computers and can lead to real savings when used across a whole workforce.
If you still use desktops, make sure they are switched off properly at the end of the day. Leaving machines running overnight wastes energy and money.
4. Check the Energy Technology List
The Energy Technology List remains a useful resource when choosing new equipment. It contains thousands of independently verified energy saving products and is updated regularly. Using it can help you make confident, informed decisions rather than relying on assumptions or sales material.
5. Regulate temperature
Businesses are required to provide a reasonable working temperature. Heating and cooling costs can add up quickly, especially when external energy prices are unstable. Small changes can have a big impact.
You can save money by reducing the thermostat by one degree, keeping radiators clear of furniture, improving draught proofing and turning heating down in unused areas. In warmer months, make sure windows are closed when air conditioning is running and keep vents clean so systems do not have to work harder than necessary.
A government guide on business energy efficiency is also available for those who want to explore the subject in more depth.
6. Reduce energy waste wherever possible
Simple changes often provide some of the easiest savings. For example:
- Keep chilled cabinets away from external doors so they do not have to work harder.
- Where suitable, use evaporative condensers instead of air cooled alternatives.
- Keep goods and exterior doors closed whenever you can.
- Avoid using kettles and water coolers when an instant hot and cold tap would do the same job more efficiently.
These small adjustments add up over time, especially when energy prices are unpredictable.
Talk to us
If your business is feeling the pressure of rising costs or you would like tailored advice, the Swindon and Wiltshire Growth Hub is here to help. Our Business Navigators can talk through your challenges and point you towards the support available.