3 zero-fuss energy saving solutions for SMEs
16 January 2026
SMEs often face significant challenges, but can also make quick decisions that have a big impact. In this blog, we’ll discuss three simple energy decisions that can help you:
- take control of your SME business energy
- cut costs and carbon emissions
- demonstrate your commitment to environmental responsibility
1 - Choose an energy supplier that offers 24/7 online access
Managing your SME energy account shouldn’t mean multiple phone calls or piles of paperwork. You’ve got better ways to be spending your time. Instead, choose an energy account that offers fast, transparent information which can be accessed at a time that suits you.
An effective online portal will dramatically reduce admin hassle, while giving you the flexibility you need to focus on your business. The extra visibility isn’t just a good way to stay in control of energy bills, it’s also a brilliant tool for helping you manage your consumption. After all, better data is the first step towards improving your SME energy efficiency.
2 - Make simple, everyday energy-saving changes
Sometimes it’s a combination of little actions that deliver the biggest impact. If you are looking for simple energy-saving solutions for SMEs to operate in a more efficient way, consider these practical steps:
Switch to LED lighting. It can create savings of up to 75% and requires less regular maintenance.
Smart power strips can help reduce wasted energy by cutting power to equipment that’s not in use. If that’s not practical for your business, educating your team on the importance of powering down devices can be just as effective.
In an office environment, heating accounts for between 20-40% of energy costs. Make timers and thermostats an integral part of everyday energy management, and turn down heating temperatures by one degree. This is one of the most effective energy saving tips for businesses.
Did you know?
By switching off computers at night and on weekends, energy consumption can be reduced by 75%, and If monitors are turned off when not in use, energy consumption can be cut by 90%.
3 - Opt for renewable energy for small businesses
Choosing an energy tariff sourced from 100% natural renewables is a simple, powerful way to make your business more sustainable; it’s also a wise commercial and strategic choice.
Choosing renewable energy proves to customers that you’re serious about your environmental responsibilities, which is crucial when you consider that two-thirds of British consumers say environmental impact is important when making a purchasing decision.
It also makes your business more appealing to job-seekers, and an easier choice for investors and supply chain partners that have carbon-reduction commitments of their own.
Not all renewable energy tariffs are created equal
With so many suppliers making green claims, how do you make sure the renewable energy tariff you choose is one worth having? The easiest way to check your supplier is making claims you can depend on is to look for independent verification.
British Gas is proud to be one of only three electricity suppliers in the UK to supply renewable electricity verified by the Carbon Trust. It means our business customers can be sure their supply is coming from 100% renewable energy sources, backed by renewable energy guarantee of origin (REGO) certificates.
*100% of the electricity supplied is renewable, backed by certificates of renewable energy guarantees of origin. Emission factor compliant with the GHG Protocol Scope 2 guidance and to be used for the ‘market-based’ method.
It also means that you can confidently declare zero emissions when reporting on your electricity supply for Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol Scope 2. This is the globally recognised standard for tracking and reporting on indirect emissions that are generated by the energy you purchase.
Crucially, this is a trusted credential that improves your reputation and helps you win business from larger partners focused on their own carbon reduction strategies.
How British Gas is supporting your sustainability goals
As covered in our renewable energy procurement blog, natural renewable energy is second only to corporate PPAs and onsite generation as a ‘deep green’ energy choice. Now it’s a choice you can make without any additional cost. For a limited time we’re offering our Natural Renewable Electricity at no extra cost.
Small and medium-sized businesses often cite energy prices as one of their biggest concerns. By choosing our Natural Renewable Electricity, you get to show customers, investors and employees that you're serious about sustainability, without impacting your bottom line.
If that sounds interesting, why not get a quote today? It’s a zero-fuss choice that will deliver real benefit to your small business.
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