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Energy consumption in manufacturing industries is always high, with some businesses spending over 10% of their production costs on energy. This is a concurrent truth with the fact that companies all over the world are looking for ways to be more environmentally conscious. With this in mind, the pursuit of energy-efficient manufacturing is becoming increasingly common.    This piece will explore how to reduce energy consumption in industry settings and generally increase efficiency, touching on everything from internal processes to switching business energy suppliers.    Being with regular business energy audits Before you start making the changes that will create manufacturing energy efficiency, you need to get a proper understanding of where you stand in the present day. This is achieved by enacting regular energy audits. These will highlight patterns of your business energy consumption, making it clearer where efficiency can be enhanced. Audits should continue throughout the pursuit of energy-efficient manufacturing.    Important steps in energy audits include:  Defining all the energy-consuming items in the facility Evaluating equipment performance Checking energy bills for inconsistencies, spikes and drops Comparing usage to other buildings or businesses (if possible)   These steps will make it much easier to make informed decisions and develop a clear action plan going forward.    Investing in more energy-efficient manufacturing equipment Energy efficiency in industrial processes is largely dependent on the quality of the equipment being used. Older, less smoothly-running equipment will generally operate less effectively and cost just as much if not more than newer, more efficient alternatives. Replacing or refurbishing equipment might take a fairly significant up-front investment, however, it should save money and increase performance in the long run.    Typical changes can include:   Optimising HVAC systems Using variable speed drives to optimise motor operations Installing energy-efficient LED lighting Replacing older motors   Again, this should be treated as an ongoing task – these replacements or improvements won’t last forever without proper maintenance.    Installing smart energy technologies This one is short, sweet and simple – using a smart meter and other smart energy technologies offers a clear pathway to energy-efficient manufacturing. Smart meters as part of an advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) will offer clear insights into energy uses, while automation systems will improve the control of energy-consuming technologies. Best of all, these things can be tracked and controlled by software, offering actionable data insights for you to base decisions on.    Switching business energy suppliers Everything considered, you might just not be getting a very good rate. Choosing a better business energy provider can be a great way to improve your financial efficiency, while renewable sources like wind power are inherently more efficient for the environment. Electing to go renewable can also do wonders for a business reputation, helping to establish status as a company that cares.  For more insights into business energy topics, visit our blog today.

There are around 17,000 care homes in the UK and they all need a reliable supply of energy. However, care home energy concerns can get in the way of proper care provision, especially with public spending declining regularly. The challenges facing care homes span far and wide, especially in the case of non-profit and NHS-run organisations.  In this piece, we’re going to focus on the concerns surrounding energy when running a care home, expanding on why they’re so relevant and offering some insight into how they might be solved.    Fixed budgets Having a limited budget is a widespread concern, especially in council-run care homes. Countless different elements contribute to care home energy costs, making it hard for smaller operations to keep up with bills. Alongside energy bills, care homes also have to pay for:    Staffing different departments Food for residents and staff Building mortgages/rent Any entertainment elements (TV packages/streaming services) Rare & regular care home maintenance jobs   Keeping up with all of these costs, alongside energy bills, can be challenging with a smaller budget. Having to prioritise certain elements over others is a painful process that will ultimately have a negative impact on the residents.    Comfort & climate The elderly residents of care homes are far more vulnerable to low temperatures, which can drive up energy bills considerably. Running a care home requires warmth, and with heating bills impacting everyone in the country, the crisis is particularly impactful on these operations.    Maintaining quality of care As touched upon above, running a care home involves a lot of moving parts, which is why energy bills amid the crisis can make it a lot harder to maintain a certain standard of care. Being under financial instability makes it harder for care homes to operate in general, which in turn can discourage people from choosing specific homes, contributing to a cycle of financial strife.    Tips for combatting rising care home energy costs With energy costs so high, it’s important to understand how to become more efficient when running a care home. This will make it easier to manage the bills and ensure high level of care quality.    Invest in better insulation for the property – it will cost money in the short term but save on the amount of heating required in the long run  Use smart technology such as smart LED lightbulbs, thermostatic radiator valves and smart thermostats to minimise unnecessary consumption Generally installing more energy efficient appliances and technologies, such as kettles (sure to see a lot of action in a care home!) Switch to a greener energy source such as solar or wind power – these renewable sources are generally cheaper and more efficient    If you’re facing challenges with a care home energy budget, it could be time to switch tariffs to a different provider. By choosing a business energy provider like D-ENERGi, you could find a more sustainable, more competitive priced alternative to your current provision. Check out our site for more information and keep caring!  Talk to our experts today for competitive business energy quotes today!

When running a business, you’re constantly thinking about your outgoings. This means it’s important to guarantee that none of your expenditure is going to waste – a big part of this is ensuring that your workplace is powered by the best energy deals possible. This blog will explore how to switch energy providers to secure a better rate, offering tips on how to choose among the options for your best possible outcome.   Compare energy prices using comparison websites One of the easiest ways to compare business energy suppliers is by using online comparison tools and websites. These sites are designed to compile a wide range of options, offering insights into their prices and offerings, allowing consumers to choose the provider that best fits their needs. Our advice would be to use them for research before going to your preferred provider directly – this can sometimes result in getting an even better deal or bypassing any unexpected costs. Also, pay mind to independent suppliers like D-ENERGi, as they might not appear on the comparison sites.   Explore renewable energy sources Sustainability is becoming increasingly important to consumers and society as a whole, while renewable energy like wind is often cheaper than traditional fuel sources. This makes going renewable a savvy business decision twice over, helping to lower energy bills and enhance your standing with potential customers.   Read customer reviews and ratings Sites like TrustPilot are a great resource for finding the best energy supplier. By sifting through customer reviews and client ratings, you can easily identify the traits you want from a good business energy provider.   Negotiate with your current business energy supplier Many think that energy bills are set in stone, however, more often than not suppliers are open to negotiation. If you’ve found a better rate, bring it to your current energy provider and let them know you’re willing to make the switch. It’s a win-win for your business as if they comply, you’ve saved making the change and if not you’re going to change anyway.   Finding the best business energy deals isn’t all about price Remember, the lowest business energy quotes aren’t necessarily going to be right for your company. Consider things like fixed-term contracts and the specific needs of your business before jumping into a new contract guns blazing. This specificity will ensure you get the right provision for the right price.   For more insights into the energy industry, visit our blog today.   Reach out to our friendly experts for a better rate. Our Price Matching team will match your renewal price to ensure you always get the best rates in the energy market.

Business energy bills are a huge part of the outgoings of any business, costing thousands of pounds even for microbusinesses. On top of that, the demand for electricity alone increases by an average of 36% on winter days compared to summer. With this in mind, it’s important that businesses understand how to save energy throughout the colder months of the year. Beyond choosing the best business electricity supplier, there are plenty of energy saving tips that can be employed to reduce energy bills this winter. This blog will outline some of the most straightforward, intuitive ways, so you can enjoy the benefits of savings.   Lowering/programming the thermostat Reducing the temperature even by a couple of degrees can make a big difference to an energy bill. Wearing extra layers and warmer clothes has the potential to save you a significant amount on your bill. Alternatively, some thermostats can be programmed to adjust temperatures based on schedules and occupancy, to minimise heat wastage.   Encourage remote working If possible in the context of your business, winter is the best time to encourage remote working. By doing so, you can minimise the amount of energy used in the office throughout the season. The vast majority of global employees have a positive view of this practice, which means it can be an attractive option for them rather than having to journey through the cold to work.   Insulating your workplace Insulation is vital. While it might not be plausible to do full-blown structural insulation work, there are plenty of inexpensive DIY options that can make a difference when trying to retain heat and save energy. Some easy techniques include: Using a window film Installing heavier curtains and blinds then keeping them shut Foam and polystyrene insulation boards Placing draught excluders at the bottom of doors   These simple techniques can help you to stay under the average winter energy bill.   Audits & maintenance Making sure that all appliances are running properly is essential to ensuring your winter energy payment isn’t unnecessarily inflated. HVAC systems, taps and cooking equipment can all eat through energy when running even a little behind their best. Regularly check on appliances, clean them and book in/perform maintenance to ensure they’re all in their best possible form. Another easy thing to do is ensure that no unnecessary outlets are on when you’re out of the office.   Don’t let winter freeze you out Small businesses alike need to make efforts to save energy, otherwise they could bear the brunt of unrealistic costs. Beyond these tips, it’s also worth investing in energy-efficient technology and even applying for winter energy support if possible. Either way, the right techniques can keep your property in action, even in the coldest months. Check out our blog for more insights into energy consumption. Contact our friendly team for a quick quote to lower your business energy bills this Winter.

Understanding the average energy consumption of a small business is essential for effective budgeting and forecasting energy costs. By knowing these figures, small businesses can better manage their energy costs. While energy usage can vary based on the size and type of business, our latest blog delves into the specifics of energy consumption for small businesses, including electricity and gas usage. What is Considered a Small Business? In the UK, small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are defined as businesses with fewer than 250 employees and an annual turnover of less than £50 million. Specifically, a small business has fewer than 50 employees and a turnover of under £10 million, while a micro business employs fewer than 10 people and has a turnover of less than £2 million. On average, small businesses in the UK consume between 15,000 kWh and 30,000 kWh of gas annually, and between 15,000 kWh and 25,000 kWh of electricity annually.   Industry Variations in Energy Consumption The amount of energy consumed can significantly differ by industry. For example, businesses in manufacturing typically use more energy compared to those in other sectors. High energy-consuming industries also include construction and agriculture. Data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) indicates that the service sector—encompassing small businesses like retail stores and restaurants—experienced a 6% decrease in energy consumption from 2019 to 2020. This shift may reflect a growing awareness of zero-carbon energy and the environmental impact of fossil fuels. Many service-based small businesses have adopted measures to lower their energy usage, contributing to reduced annual consumption.   How to Monitor Your Business Energy Consumption If you’re concerned that your business energy usage exceeds the average for your sector, it may be time to consider installing a smart meter. Smart meters aren’t just for domestic homes! A smart meter allows you to monitor your energy usage effectively. It provides real-time data, enabling you to manage your consumption more efficiently. Additionally, all readings are automatically sent to your business energy supplier, eliminating the need for manual meter readings. This ensures more accurate billing and helps avoid overestimations. If you’re interested in learning more about smart meters, don’t hesitate to contact our team!   What to Do If Your Business Energy Consumption is Too High If you have a smart meter installed and notice that your energy consumption is higher than expected, consider the following tips to reduce usage: Inspect Your Equipment: Evaluate your business equipment and upgrade to more cost-effective equipment if necessary. Power Down: Turn off electrical equipment when not in use, including lighting and heating, which can significantly impact your energy bills. Regulate Temperature: Set a comfortable temperature on your thermostat and maintain it consistently. Promote Energy Awareness: Foster an energy-saving culture among your employees.    For other great tips on lowering your small business energy consumption, check out our blogs! Contact our friendly team for a quick quote to lower your business energy bills.

There are numerous benefits to transitioning your office to green energy. Not only does it have a positive impact on the environment, but it can also save you money in the long run. By utilising renewable sources of energy such as solar or wind power, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint and decrease your reliance on traditional fossil fuels. In addition to the environmental benefits, going green can also improve the overall atmosphere and productivity in your office. Studies have shown that employees working in eco-friendly environments tend to be more satisfied with their jobs and have increased productivity levels. This is due to the fact that natural light and plants have been proven to boost mood and promote a healthier work environment. With the following tips you can begin the journey to going green and building a sustainable office workplace for you , your team and your brand.   Installing Solar Panels One of the most effective ways to transform your office with green energy is by installing solar panels. These panels use sunlight to generate electricity, which can power your office’s lighting and electronic devices. While it may seem like a big investment upfront, the long-term cost savings make it a worthwhile venture. Before installing solar panels, it’s important to conduct a thorough assessment of your office’s energy consumption and potential for solar power generation. This will help determine the size and placement of the panels needed for maximum efficiency. Seek out professional guidance from reputable solar panel companies to ensure proper installation and maintenance.   Opt For A Renewable Business Energy Supplier If solar panels are not possible for your business, you may wish to opt for an energy supplier with a renewable energy option. At D-ENERGi we can supply your business electricity, sourced from wind power provided by UK wind farms. Find out more about our D-ENERGi Trading product.   Utilising Natural Light Another way to reduce your office’s reliance on traditional energy sources is by utilising natural light. This not only helps to reduce electricity costs, but also has numerous health benefits for employees. Exposure to natural light has been linked to improved mood, productivity and overall well-being. To make the most of natural light in your office, consider rearranging workstations and desk layouts to allow for more exposure to windows. Additionally, using light-coloured walls and furniture can help reflect natural light throughout the office space.   Implementing Energy-Efficient Equipment Along with renewable energy sources, investing in energy-efficient equipment can greatly contribute to reducing your office’s carbon footprint. This includes using LED light bulbs, smart power strips, and A-rated energy saving  certified appliances.   Going Paperless In today’s digital world, it’s easier than ever to reduce paper waste in the office. By going paperless, not only are you reducing your environmental impact, but you’re also saving money on printing and storage costs. Offices that haven’t already gone paperless should certainly make this their priority. A brilliant way to save the planet and also business costs.   Encouraging Sustainable Commuting Another way to transform your office with green energy is by encouraging sustainable commuting methods for employees. This can include promoting public transportation, carpooling, biking, or walking to work. Offering incentives such as discounted transit passes or bike-to-work schemes can encourage employees to make the switch.   Incorporating Sustainable Practices in Daily Operations Finally, transforming your office with green energy also involves incorporating sustainable practices into daily operations. This can include simple habits like turning off lights and electronics when not in use, properly recycling and disposing of waste, and using energy-efficient temperature settings for heating and cooling systems. By making these small changes, you can greatly contribute to reducing your office’s carbon footprint and promoting a more environmentally friendly workplace.   Conclusion In conclusion, transitioning to green energy in your office is a great way to future-proof your business and provide a safe, sustainable environment for your team. Not only will this help to attract young talent and the future generations to your company but will improve your brand’s reputation with potential customers and your stakeholders. While some of these changes may require an investment, it is a valuable and positive thing to do for the long-term benefits, both for the planet and your business. For more green saving tips, check out our blog. For a free quote, simply get in touch with our team.