5 energy efficiency strategies to boost sustainability in 2026

Changing regulations, fluctuating energy prices, and rising customer expectations are making energy efficiency and energy sustainability essential for businesses. A recent study1 of 500 organisations found that half view innovation as a top priority over the next three years. With many energy saving solutions available, which ones are most effective for supporting your business?

1. Cut costs with energy efficiency upgrades

Energy efficiency is often the quickest win for sustainability. Even if you’ve improved efficiency before, ensure good habits remain. Targeted upgrades and small behavioural changes can trim energy bills by 18–30%, according to The Energy Saving Trust. For an annual energy bill of £10,000, that’s £1,800–£3,000 back in your pocket.

Common energy saving upgrades include:

• Switching to LED lighting
• Installing smart thermostats
• Adopting modern, high-efficiency heating systems

Behavioural shifts, like turning off unused equipment or adjusting heating settings, can be implemented immediately at minimal cost. In an office, these actions can reduce energy costs by up to 65%.

2. Take control with smart energy management

Understanding how, when, and where you use energy is vital for cutting consumption and energy saving costs. It’s not always easy, but smart meters make it possible, offering real-time insights that put energy efficiency control in your hands. A recent survey found 47% of organisations are committed to net zero by 20301, up from 28% in 2024 – and most interestingly – that smart meters are a key enabler in that journey. It’s one of the reasons why we’re committed to helping all our customers upgrade to a smart meter free of charge.

Once your smart meter is set up, we’ll then help you track consumption patterns, spot trends, and identify savings with our free platform, Energy360® DataView. You may also be eligible for one of our PeakSave for business trials, which gives you access to half-price electricity during a designated day and time. These trials aren’t currently available for all our business customers, but we’re working hard to make sure it can be rolled out in the near future.

3. Switch to a renewable energy tariff

Switching to a renewable energy contract or fixed-rate tariff can shield your business from market unpredictability and sudden price increases, while enhancing your sustainability credentials. Choose a supplier that invests in new renewable generation instead of merely buying renewable certificates.

Wherever your business is on its sustainability journey, we’re here to help with Zero Carbon Electricity as standard for all new Fixed Price Plans, backed by Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin (REGOs) and nuclear declarations. Until March 2026, we’re also providing 100% Natural Renewable Electricity at no extra cost. Among 62 electricity providers, we are one of only three whose product is independently verified by the Carbon Trust.

4. Generate your own energy onsite

Almost half of businesses are considering generating their own energy2, with solar power topping the list. While funding can be a hurdle, there’s increasing financial support available for a variety of upgrades, including gas boiler alternatives like heat pumps. Capital grants can cover up to 45% of project costs, with funding ranging from £10,000 to £100,000 in some regions. 

Government incentives include:

• Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)
  Pays businesses for excess renewable electricity exported back to the grid, improving overall return on investment.

• Boiler Upgrade Scheme
  Provides financial support for upgrading to low-carbon heating systems.

• Green Gas Support Scheme
  Incentivises the production and use of renewable gas, further lowering costs.

For businesses ready to take sustainability to the next level, Commercial Solar Panels (PV) can be a smart choice. They allow you to produce your own electricity, cut reliance on the grid and lower energy bills – with potential payback in as little as three years. If you also opt for battery storage, you can store unused energy for later use and save even more. Solar not only supports long‑term net zero aims but also sends a strong message about your commitment to climate action. These are among the most impactful energy saving solutions and a major contributor to energy efficiency.

5. Invest in commercial EV Charging

If you have a fleet of electric vehicles or want to enhance the appeal of your commercial property, installing EV charging is a forward‑thinking move. In partnership with Zaptec, we can help you get started with a smart, scalable Communal EV charging tariff for businesses. This can improve convenience for staff and customers and position your brand as a sustainability leader while supporting overall energy efficiency goals.

Let’s take the next step together

Sustainability isn’t just good for the planet - it’s good for business. With practical, affordable solutions, you can take meaningful steps towards a low‑carbon future. Whether you opt for renewable energy tariffs, smart meters, onsite generation, or EV charging, the benefits include lower costs, greater energy independence and stronger customer appeal. Ready to get started? Visit Green Energy to explore your options and take the next step on your sustainability journey with a partner you can rely on.

Related articles

Wrap up big savings this festive season with PeakSave for Business

Energy360® - Maximise efficiency and grow sustainably

Smart meters and MHHS - Powering UK businesses toward net zero