Flip the Switch: Smarter Energy Choices for Small Businesses

Blogs 23 Dec 2024

UK SMEs are overpaying by £7 billion annually on their energy bills, but many businesses are deterred by the complexity and hassle of switching. Here’s how you can make energy switching simple and effective for your business.

1. Understand your current usage

Start by reviewing your energy consumption. Analyse bills to identify inefficiencies or high-cost areas. This insight helps you prioritise changes and set achievable goals. Tools like Zellar can automate energy tracking, help reduce consumption and send reminders when your tariff is up for renewal.

2. Compare your energy options

Renewable energy providers now offer competitive rates, making it easier to align sustainability goals with your budget. Switching to a genuine green tariff can reduce your carbon emissions and, in many cases, still save you money compared to your current fossil fuel provider.

3. Is green always what it seems?

Not all energy advertised as “green” is truly renewable. Many suppliers rely on Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin (REGO) certificates, which may not reflect the direct sourcing of renewable power. Be sure to research providers thoroughly and choose a true green partner. Using a REGO-backed tariff is unlikely to hold up to third-party scrutiny when it comes to proving your emissions reductions.

4. Save by avoiding fees

Many businesses unknowingly incur hefty fees when working with brokers to change energy providers. Zellar helps you switch seamlessly, avoid hidden fees, and reinvest savings into sustainability initiatives, such as energy-efficient lighting or heating systems.

5. Plan for long-term compliance

Switching to renewable energy not only benefits the environment but also supports compliance with future regulatory standards and supplier demands. Sustainable energy choices enhance your ESG performance, making your business more attractive to partners, customers, and investors. Again, this is where choosing a true green tariff becomes imperative.

6. Track your progress

Once you’ve switched, monitor your energy use to understand the impact. Zellar’s sustainability coaching platform makes it easy to track progress and stay on course towards your net-zero goals. It’s a bit like the couch to 5k for sustainability.

By making smarter energy choices part of your sustainability journey, you’ll save money, reduce your environmental impact, and position your business as a leader in green practices. FSB members can explore these strategies and more with 20% off Zellar. Access your discount and start your journey today!

Small business sustainability hub

The race to a net zero economy by 2050 has begun. We’re making sure small businesses aren’t left out of the big picture. Visit our sustainability hub today to explore free resources.

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