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With rising electricity costs and increasing focus on sustainability, engineering firms must manage energy intelligently. The industry is crucial to society’s advancement, making efficient energy technologies essential. This blog will explore some beneficial energy techniques and how professional help can secure engineering businesses with low-cost energy.   Energy and the engineering sector The engineering industry encompasses many fields, ranging from aerospace engineering that focuses on the planning and manufacturing of aircraft or space technologies, to civil engineering which is about the construction and maintenance of infrastructure. Therefore,  energy levels and sources vary depending on the specific position. Here are a few sectors, and a closer look at their energy consumption or distribution:   Biomedical Biomedical engineers create medical technologies, requiring significant energy for testing and construction. Many prioritise renewable energy as it lowers costs over time in this high-demand industry.   Civil Many civil engineers are trained in energy or environmental engineering, which means they prioritise energy efficiency when constructing new infrastructure. This includes implementing:  Better insulation Installation of renewable energy sources Smart grids that monitor energy usage to prevent overcharging and save energy   Electrical Electrical engineers design and maintain electrical systems, so they must prioritise energy efficiency. While the industry is shifting towards renewable resources for long-term sustainability, continuous improvements are also being made to non-renewable sources to maximise efficiency where renewables aren’t viable.   Why do renewable sources save energy? Renewable energy, despite the high initial costs, offers unlimited and efficient power, leading to long-term savings.   Types of renewable energy  Wind power, in particular, is well-suited for industrial operations that need to respond to consistent demand. Wind produces clean energy at scale and can be sourced remotely from wind farms. Relying on wind has secure longevity, as it is not dependent on volatile fossil fuel markets. This consistency will save your company money and hassle in the long run.    Solar energy tends to be more popular in smaller industrial operations. For example, food manufacturing engineering requires electricity for cooling and packaging food and drink products.    Hydropower or hydroelectric energy are water generated powers. These are used mostly in computer engineering or electrical engineering fields as it is a constant source year-round and is potentially more consistent than solar or wind power.    How to access this energy In order to prioritise, implement or consume these energy sources, engineering businesses will work with a trusted energy supplier that can provide them with the best deals and support their advancements.    Ways to reduce energy costs in manufacturing and engineering  Like with any business, engineers can benefit from some key basic tips:  Half-hourly electricity tariffs provide accurate cost tracking (and mean you won’t be overcharged due to inaccurate estimations). A professional evaluation will establish suitable options.  Switching to renewable energy source will save you money in the long-run.  Securing a reliable business electricity suppliers for fitting tariffs and protection from price hikes.   Go with D-Energi  At D-Energi, we work closely with engineering and industrial firms to help reduce energy usage, optimise ideal contracts and/or help companies transition to cleaner and greener power.    We can provide 100% UK wind-farm energy so that you can reap the benefits of a lasting and renewable source. For those contemplating the best energy source, we can also offer expert advice and consider what’s best for your business.    Get a free energy quote today for your business and invest in the future of your industry. 

World events and geopolitical dynamics are hugely impactful factors to take into account when making a global energy assessment. As a business owner in the UK, it’s important to understand how these factors influence your energy costs. Fluctuations in prices from business energy suppliers are often driven by tensions and natural events all over the world.   This blog highlights key world events impacting world energy consumption and explains why they change your monthly energy bills. Understanding these dynamics is vital for informed decision-making.    How the Russia-Ukraine War impacts global energy The Russia-Ukraine War tops the list of world events altering energy premiums in the UK. Europe and beyond. This is because Russia was previously a major supplier of natural gas to Europe and has drastically cut these supplies since the war began back in 2022. Their invasion and subsequent cut of supplies was the inciting incident that led to the energy crisis we’re still living through.     Increased competition in energy markets Natural gas prices have gone through the roof, meaning the UK and other European nations have had to compete for liquefied natural gas (LNG) from markets like the United States and Qatar. The response to the increased demand has, of course, increased prices overall, affecting your business energy bills.   The shift towards renewable energy In the wake of the war and the energy complications it’s brought with it, international governments and organisations like the World Energy Council have pushed for wider adoption of greener energy sources. Renewables like domestic wind power can aid in the fight against reliance on imported fossil fuels.    OPEC+ production decisions The OPEC organisation (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries) is an important body to stay aware of. OPEC+ (including allies) have a massive impact on the oil market, with recent decisions including massive cuts to oil production that have kept prices high. It’s also worth noting the members of OPEC:    Iran Iraq Equatorial Guinea Gabon Kuwait Saudi Arabia United Arab Emirates Algeria Congo Venezuela Libya Nigeria   While the countries do work together in the organisation, world events impact each of them differently, with internal variation in geopolitical alignment impacting market-affecting decisions and prices.    Red Sea shipping attacks & disruptions The world energy outlook is also being significantly affected by Houthi attacks on Red Sea trading routes. While these attacks have disrupted various supply chains, the impact on oil and gas tankers has arguably been the most significant. Companies are essentially shipping goods and energy supply on longer routes around Africa, vastly increasing shipping costs and delivery times. These costs are then offset with the increased price of oil and LNG, with the “risk premium” on investors also being passed onto the consumer.    Staying informed about world events If you’re serious about managing your business and your energy supply, it’s important to be aware of what’s happening in the world. Our blog provides practical insights and advice on navigating the complexities of business energy management. Visit our website today for more valuable content or get in touch for expert guidance on optimising your energy strategy. 

If you’re seeking a business electricity quote or are ready to start looking for a new energy supplier, you should keep a few things in mind. Understanding unit prices, standing charges and contract length are very important, but there’s one thing people often forget to consider properly – the quality of customer service.    Now, ideally, you won’t need to contact customer service with your chosen provider that often, but when you do, you want the interactions to be smooth, friendly and productive. This blog will highlight the key qualities and essentials of excellent energy customer services, helping you identify what to look for when selecting a business energy supplier.    Why exceptional customer service matters Customer service isn’t just about inspiring loyalty—it also plays a significant part in protecting energy customers. Smaller businesses or microbusinesses can be financially vulnerable, which is why their energy supplier needs to be genuinely supportive and helpful.    Financial assistance & protection The most common disputes between customers and business energy suppliers are related to billing. Improper calculations and confusing bills can cause significant financial distress and put vulnerable businesses into disarray. A positive energy customer service interaction will be guided to a solution quickly and accurately, protecting customer financials and bypassing unnecessary stress.     This is about much more than simply keeping consumers happy – it’s about giving them the best ability to look after themselves. Energy customers lose millions to bad customer service every year, so make sure to work with an energy supplier with a reliable approach to interactions. Suppliers should also be able to offer guidance for those with debts or requiring tailored pricing plans.    What should good customer service provide to energy customers? In general, good customer service should offer answers to any questions and concerns customers have, such as those surrounding:    Terms & conditions Billing issues & information Half-hourly data Energy tariffs Meter readings Meter upgrades Capacity increases Smart meter rollout Gas/electrical emergencies Fair treatment policies Complaints handling Privacy policies/how information is used Climate Change Levy (CCL) rates and issues Other FAQs or common queries   These are just some of the things that a good customer service representative will be able to offer guidance on, which is why it’s important to suss out how comprehensive a supplier’s approach is. There are plenty of companies that will try to guide you through miles of red tape and bureaucracy to avoid giving you the help you really need. Don’t settle for this.    Indications of Quality Customer Service Signs of a good customer service platform include:    A high Trustpilot rating Strong reviews and testimonials Multiple channels for communication (email, telephone, etc.) Microbusiness guides Energy saving tips, blogs & other resources   Consider D-Energi for exceptional customer service If you’re looking to get a business energy quote or exploring new business energy  contract options, consider D-ENERGi. We offer exceptional customer service to all of our customers, covering everything described in this blog, along with a variety of flexible energy options for businesses of all sizes.    For more information, get in touch with us today! 

Summer is on its way out, meaning businesses all over the country are going to be confronted with autumn energy concerns. Even if autumn weather is getting milder, business energy demands will change with the seasons, whatever industry you work in. Proactive management techniques are important for all business owners and operators to consider.    This blog will offer some insights into energy management solutions for the autumn, so you can ensure your energy bills remain predictable throughout the seasons.    Preparing the HVAC for winter Autumn gets a little bit chillier, but it’s nothing compared to the drop that you’re bound to feel during winter. That’s why it’s important to use autumn as a time to prepare your HVAC for the next season. Book in a professional servicing session, as this will ensure your system runs smoother throughout autumn, all the way through winter as well, saving you money.    Make sure to book your servicing in, especially if it’s been a year since your last investigation Replace or clean your filters at the start of the season, if not monthly Bleed your radiators, as they’ve likely been inactive throughout the summer Check and adjust your thermostat programming, ensuring that it’s prepared intelligently to suit the change in temperature    At this point in time, there’s no need to instinctively run your HVAC system too hard. Encourage staff to maybe get a jacket on, whatever industry you work in.    Lighting-based energy management systems One of the most significant changes to your autumn energy requirements is that you’re going to be experiencing shorter days in terms of sunlight. Businesses, especially those with irregular hours, will feel the impacts of reduced daylight hours, meaning it’s important to maximise natural light in the daytime to prevent unnecessary energy expenditure.    Make sure to keep windows clean and minimise any obstructions so no natural light is blocked Reprogram any smart light technology to prevent any unnecessary daytime operation   Keep an eye on the light during autumn, as this will generally change more significantly and rapidly than the temperature.    Start preparing your building envelope Your management of business energy will often be defined by the quality and preparation of your building envelope. An insulated workplace is a happy workplace, and autumn is the perfect time to notice any issues before they get out of hand.    Use the season as a change to notice where light draughts and heat leaks show up, making sure to seal them off at first sign Start introducing the practice of keeping windows and external doors closed during the day in preparation for winter If you’re in a position to do so, consider using autumn to install better glazing or more permanent insulation features   Autumn is a transitionary phase Really, your autumn energy requirements might not be as different to summer as you might think. However, it’s a great time to get ready for winter, as it will illuminate any weak spots in your workplace, ensuring you can take a more targeted approach to preparation and repair.    For more insights into energy management, visit our blog today. 

Care and residential home energy costs can be quite high, but maintaining a hospitable environment for residents doesn’t have to break the bank. By exploring strategic changes and leveraging innovative solutions, you can significantly reduce energy expenses and enhance comfort. This article will offer some actionable tips on saving energy in care and residential homes, without putting your residents at risk.   Conduct a comprehensive energy audit Start by performing a thorough energy audit to pinpoint waste and identify improvement areas. Regular monitoring should become a standard practice, allowing you to track trends and see improvements in real-time.   Evaluate energy tariffs for cost savings Don’t overlook the potential savings from reviewing your energy plans. Consider switching to more cost-effective tariffs or fixed-rate contracts for budget certainty. Negotiating directly with suppliers can yield substantial savings and better rates.   Optimise heating & hot water efficiency Keeping your residents comfortable while managing energy costs is essential. Implement these strategies: Regular Maintenance: Service boilers and heating systems to ensure optimal performance. Upgrade Fixtures: Invest in energy-efficient fittings for long-term savings. Smart Controls: Use technology for precise temperature management and occupancy efficiency. Temperature Regulation: Lower water temperatures to acceptable levels and fix leaks immediately. Insulation Improvements: Enhance insulation with thicker curtains, double-glazing, and airtight seals to reduce heat loss.   Energy efficiency tips for care and residential homes Switching to energy-efficient lighting is crucial. Consider these changes: LED Lighting: Transition to LED bulbs to cut down on energy use. Maximise Natural Light: Utilize windows effectively to reduce reliance on artificial lighting. Smart Sensors: Install motion sensors and timers for automated lighting control.   Invest in energy-efficient appliances Selecting the right appliances can drastically affect energy consumption. Opt for high-efficiency models for: Refrigerators Freezers Washing Machines Dryers Kettles Ensure these appliances are turned off completely to avoid wasted standby energy.   Embrace renewable energy solutions Integrating renewable energy is a game-changer for care homes. Consider: Solar Panels: Generate your own electricity, reducing reliance on purchased energy. Solar Water Heating: Use sunlight to heat water, further decreasing energy bills. 100% Green Energy Tariff sourced from UK wind farms and other fully renewable sources such as hydro and solar.   Engage staff and residents in energy efficiency Educating staff about energy-saving practices and informing residents can enhance your initiatives’ effectiveness. Make energy efficiency a shared goal, ensuring everyone understands their role in fostering a sustainable environment.   Conclusion Implementing these strategies can lead to significant savings on energy bills for care homes. Remember, sustainable change takes time, but with consistent efforts, you will see impressive results. Start today and transform your energy management for a brighter, more efficient future! Find out about our best electricity and gas prices for care homes. Visit our blog for more insights into the energy industry. 

  Hospitality businesses are notoriously difficult to keep open. Owners need to stay ahead of operational costs, including those related to maintaining temperatures and business energy management.    This blog will offer insights into how to reduce business energy costs in hospitality settings, such as restaurants, cafes, bars or hotels, all while maintaining comfortable room temperatures for guests and staff alike.   The importance of proper temperatures in hospitality settings   Annual energy plans for restaurants and other businesses of the sort can be defined largely by the temperature requirements of the settings. This isn’t just about the comfort of guests and staff, there are also often regulatory and safety requirements that need to be adhered to.    Comfort-based temperature requirements   Hotel rooms should be kept around 18-21°C, with the options for the guest to adjust the temperature within a certain range Restaurants, cafes, bars and dining areas should be kept at a comfortable range between 21-22°C Kitchens should be kept cooler, around 15-18°C, especially considering all the heat of cooking processes Care homes should be kept slightly warmer, around 20-24°C, important for keeping elderly or vulnerable residents comfortable and healthy   Food safety temperatures   Food safety regulations require more specific temperature controls, to guarantee everything is stored safely, keeping fines or penalties at bay.    Fridge temperatures need to be kept at 5°C or lower  Freezer temperature must be -18°C or lower Cooking temperatures should be 70°C or higher for most foods  Hot holding has to be 63°C or higher  Food should be cooled from 60°C to 20°C within 2 hours – then from 20°C to 5°C within another 4 hours.  Temperatures are an essential thing to keep in mind in hospitality, with safety and comfort trumping efforts to lower the monthly energy bill for a restaurant or bar. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t make differences with clever business energy management techniques.    Temperature & energy management in hospitality   When it comes to managing your energy consumption levels in hospitality settings, temperature control can be a hard thing to overcome. There are few primary focuses that you need to consider, such as HVAC systems, envelope building and smart features.    HVAC maintenance   HVAC systems will be in constant action, so make sure to maintain them and book in regular servicing to ensure that they’re efficient and not expending unnecessary energy. At the same time, aim for comfort, but at reasonable levels.   Envelope building   Improve wall, roof and floor insulation across the entire building, draught proofing spaces across the various rooms to minimise leaking and keep each area its proper temperature, further ensuring HVAC systems aren’t overworked.    Smart energy management features   Using smart features can be a great way to sidestep oversight, which can be common with teams under the pressure of serving guests. Some installations can include:    Occupancy-scheduled thermostats and sensors to ensure the right spaces have the right temperatures, maximising efficiency Key card switches for hotel rooms that automatically turn off lights and HVAC systems when guests leave General zone controls for HVAC systems   Keep track of progress!   And remember, the key to any good energy management strategy is to measure your energy performance from start to finish, allowing you to base your next steps on data.  For more insights into energy management and other related topics, visit our blog today.