UK electricity prices for non-domestic users averaged 24.9p/kWh in the first quarter of 2024, which was up 60% compared to 2019. As competition grows and energy prices soar, having access to reliable, affordable energy is becoming increasingly important.
As a result, businesses across Manchester are now prioritising more sustainable methods of energy generation, not only to cut costs and improve their resilience against market uncertainties, but also to boost their reputation.
With that in mind, let’s explore how companies in Manchester are strengthening their energy strategies to support future growth.
Leveraging on-site energy generation and storage
Commercial solar panels in Manchester are becoming more common. Rooftop solar is being used to reduce the amount of power being taken from the national grid, effectively lowering energy bills. Many businesses are also using battery storage in conjunction with solar panels, allowing them to store any unused solar energy, which can then be used as a power source in the evenings.
Switching to lower consumption alternatives
In 2024, it was announced that Ofgem’s DUoS charges would be shifting from 2025 onwards, meaning businesses would face different rates and energy costs. This was, in part, to encourage businesses to adopt more sustainable practices, and in many ways this has been successful.
Organisations that use less energy pay less DUoS charges. This has meant many businesses are opting for lower consumption options and are making changes such as replacing traditional bulbs with LEDs, installing thermostats to ensure heating and cooling outside of business hours remains regulated, and using motion sensors for lighting in certain areas to reduce waste.
Accurately tracking energy consumption
It’s difficult to effectively optimise your energy infrastructure without knowing where the major sources of waste actually are. Manchester-based businesses are carrying out energy audits and tracking their consumption regularly to identify the changes that will have the biggest impact.
This is primarily being achieved through smart business metres, which track electricity and gas usage and send the data to energy management systems securely, allowing businesses to spot trends, create reports, and spot potential optimisation opportunities.
Sustainability is key for business growth in Manchester
Prioritising sustainability is crucial for keeping costs down, getting ahead of competitors, attracting investors, and satisfying consumer demands. Neglecting environmentally-friendly practices is no longer an option as we head into a more energy-conscious future, and the businesses that leverage on-site energy, switch to lower consumption options, and accurately track their usage are the ones who will come out on top.
