Businesses could cut at least 15% from their energy bills by following cheap and easy guidelines, Green reps were told at a conference in Cheltenham.
 
Mike Brain (pictured right) from Severn Wye Energy Agency told delegates to the South West TUC’s Green Workplaces Project event on February 23rd, he was amazed at how companies failed to scrutinise their electricity and gas bills.
 
“They pay them without blinking an eyelid,” he said. “You tell me in what other area of business that would happen. You wouldn’t accept an invoice from someone delivering an estimated number of goods, so why would you pay an estimated bill without checking it first?”
 
This was just one of the tips given by Mike during the event, which was attended by a dozen people representing different companies from Gloucestershire.
 
Other tips include looking at how and when you light and heat your business premises, installing smart metering, dusting your lights and ensuring you make the most of your computer’s energy-saving settings.
 
“A screen saver is not the same as an energy saver,” Mike warned.
 
“It’s easy for businesses to save money. In fact there are many no- or low-cost ways that would lead to as much as a 15% reduction in energy costs.
 
“Once businesses realise there are financial savings to be made as well as energy savings, they’re more likely to have senior management buy-in.
 
“And that’s why trade unions are vital. They are the voice of the workers and they are able to relate that voice to management in a positive way, helping them identify simple ways to make a real difference, both to their employer’s energy use and their budget.”

All pictures Clint Randall, Web: www.pixelprphotography.co.uk

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