All across the country, the way we buy and manage businesses energy is changing. As we build a modern energy infrastructure that is fit for Britain’s smarter, greener future, there has never been a better time for small businesses in the construction industry to get involved.
You may already know that smart meters are available for every household, but did you know that many small businesses can also upgrade to the new digital meters?
For electrical, plumbing, contractor and small trades businesses, energy efficiency can be a lot easier to understand and implement with a smart meter.
Adopting small changes and understanding their impact where energy consumption is concerned in the work place can open new benefits that add up over time, from lower bills to more efficient tools and equipment.
Increasing numbers of construction clients are asking contractors to prove they are managing energy efficiently. Asking your energy supplier to install a smart meter in your premises helps prove your sustainability credentials and reduce costs.
Smart Energy GB, the voice of the smart meter rollout has worked with Dr. Paul Swift from the Carbon Trust to produce a series of tips on how small construction firms can get smart about energy.
Advice
Make smart plans: Be ready to advise clients on how to reduce their future energy bills, through options such as LED lighting or choice of building materials. Get smart meters installed in new builds.
Look after your tools: Use tools according to guidelines and only run them when needed. Badly maintained equipment uses more energy and is more likely to fail, so get them regularly PAT-tested and clean filters and air intakes.
Energy management: Install controls that allow you to turn off site areas not in use. Ensure any damaged cables or unused connections are removed. If you need a generator, size correctly to prevent wasting money on fuel.
Understand your energy consumption: Getting a smart meter installed on your business premises helps track energy costs and budget spend. Use your smart
meter to identify patterns, find unexpected spikes and encourage energy saving both on and off site.
Scheduling: Plan to use equipment in one run, rather than a series of bursts. Avoid using electricity or gas to dry concrete, plaster and mortar by completing the work early and allowing to dry naturally. Get a temporary connection to the electricity grid as soon as possible!
Drive smart: We think of electricity and gas, but construction firms can also reduce energy wasted by vehicle fuel consumption. Service them regularly, only load essential equipment, test tire pressure and avoid idling, sudden acceleration and braking.
Contact your energy supplier today about getting your smart meter installed.
