Start by understanding when and where your business uses energy, then look for avoidable use that does not affect safety, product quality or customer comfort. Read bills, check equipment schedules and involve staff before spending money. The opportunity and cost depend on the premises and the work you do.
Learn what “normal” looks like
Keep bills and meter readings together and compare similar periods. If your meter allows it, record use before opening, during operating hours and after closing. Sudden changes can point to an altered schedule, equipment problem or simply different weather or activity; investigate before assuming the cause.
Walk through the premises
Check that lighting, extraction, heating and cooling are used only when needed. Look for equipment left running outside operating hours and confirm timers match the business schedule. Keep required safety systems and essential equipment running: do not switch off anything unless you know it is safe.
Review heating, cooling and controls
Check programmed hours and settings with the person responsible for the premises. Make sure thermostats and controls are understood and that doors, windows and ventilation are managed appropriately for the building and activity. For specialist equipment or complex premises, ask a competent professional before changing settings.
Include staff in small changes
Explain which equipment can be switched off, when, and by whom. Clear responsibilities are more useful than a reminder to “save energy”. Review the change after a few weeks, compare similar periods and record what else may have affected consumption.
Check advice and available support
The GOV.UK SME guide outlines measures businesses can consider, while Ofgem points to energy-efficiency advice, grants and schemes. Check each programme's current eligibility and terms before relying on funding or projected savings.
Reducing energy use is different from switching a tariff: lower consumption can reduce variable charges, while the unit rate and standing charge are set by your contract. Put your last 12 months of usage into the business energy estimator to see an indicative usage-based cost range. It is not a guarantee of savings or a live tariff.