How to Minimise Energy Usage: A Vital Guide Amid Rising TNUoS Charges

Energy consumption varies throughout the day, often peaking during specific hours. Typically, from 9am to 5pm, office-based businesses drive significant energy usage as they operate equipment powered by the grid. Additionally, between 4pm and 7pm, there is a marked surge in energy demand, as both households and businesses use high-consumption appliances like kettles and ovens.

With TNUoS charges projected to double from 1 April 2026, it’s essential for business owners to closely monitor their energy consumption. Familiarising themselves with peak and off-peak energy times can play a crucial role in managing costs effectively.

How Do Peak Times Influence Business Energy Costs?

During peak hours, energy prices often rise due to the increased strain on the energy grid, a phenomenon referred to as time-of-use pricing. Businesses operating during these peak times may experience significantly higher bills, particularly those with energy-intensive operations. Conversely, off-peak times—generally late evenings, nights, or early mornings—offer an opportunity for businesses to reduce their costs.

Energy providers usually reduce rates during these lower-demand periods to help stabilize the grid. By shifting some operations to these off-peak times, businesses can take advantage of these savings.

Importance of Correct Electricity Meter Banding

Ensuring your electricity meter is in the correct banding can significantly impact energy costs. The banding system, introduced by Ofgem’s Targeted Charging Review (TCR), determines the fixed daily charges for Transmission Network Use of System (TNUoS) costs. The TCR shifted many charges from a variable rate (p/kWh) to a fixed daily cost (£/site/day). If you suspect your business is in the incorrect banding or you’ve reduced energy usage but your banding hasn’t changed, consult our experts to gain control over your energy expenses amid rising TNUoS charges.

What Are Off-Peak Hours for Energy Consumption?

In the UK, the hours between 11pm and 8am typically see the lowest energy consumption. As most people are asleep during this time, demand on the grid drops, resulting in lower electricity costs. Transitioning energy usage to these off-peak hours can lead to substantial financial savings. While some activities may still necessitate energy during peak times, exploring ways to adjust consumption schedules can help mitigate the impact of rising costs linked to TNUoS charges.

Strategies to Shift Your Business Energy Usage Away from Peak Times

Some of these tips are useful for businesses looking to shift their energy usage away from peak energy times:

• Invest in Energy-Efficient Equipment: Incorporate energy-efficient solutions like LED lighting, smart thermostats, and Energy Star-rated appliances. These upgrades can significantly lower your overall energy consumption.
• Implement Scheduling Systems: Whenever feasible, schedule high-energy activities during off-peak hours. This could involve running machinery or conducting non-essential tasks over the weekend or at night.
• Manage Office Temperatures: For busy offices, consider controlling temperature settings in the early mornings. Set your HVAC system to adjust before the workday begins.
• Explore Renewable Energy Options: Installing solar panels or wind turbines can provide a sustainable and cost-effective source of energy for your business, especially during peak times when traditional energy sources are more expensive.
• Monitor Your Energy Usage: Keep a close eye on your business’s energy consumption patterns to identify areas where you can make adjustments to reduce usage during peak hours. This can easily be done with the installation of a business smart meter. Which we are supporting businesses with, you find out more about the smart meter roll out here.
• Utilise Lighting Sensors: Implement sensors to your lighting so that lights will only turn on when required. This could save your business hundreds of pounds in wasted energy usage.

TNUoS Charge Increase: What UK Businesses Need to Know

By implementing these strategies, your business can potentially save thousands of pounds each year on energy bills while minimising the impact of rising electricity expenses associated with TNUoS charges.

If you would like to find out more about how you can save your business money and reduce your business energy usage, check out more of our blogs for business energy customers. If you are a D-ENERGi business energy customer and would like to speak with a member of our team to discuss your current energy bills, or to get a new energy quote, don’t hesitate to contact our team.