Keeping an eye on your water consumption is important for two reasons: to make sure you’re being billed accurately, and to catch any increases in your usage that could point to a leak.

The easiest way to do this is through regular meter readings. Reading your water meter is quick and easy once you know what you’re doing, so we’ve compiled all the information you’ll need – from finding your meter to reading it correctly.

This will depend on the type of water meter you have in your home or business – traditional or smart.

Traditional water meters

A standard water meter typically features a round metal or plastic casing with a clear cover on top, allowing you to view the dial beneath.

On the dial, you’ll find a series of numbers that indicate water usage, often accompanied by a needle that moves as water flows through.

These devices operate mechanically, with numbers rolling over as more water is consumed.

Smart water meters

A smart water meter has a more modern design, often featuring a digital display.

This digital display not only makes readings easier to understand but also allows for more precise data collection.

Smart meters can send your usage data directly to your utility provider, eliminating the need for manual readings.

Generally, residential water meters are located near the pavement in front of your property. They’re housed in a concrete box labeled “water,” which can be opened with a standard screwdriver.

To find your water meter, start by checking your property’s boundary near the main road. Look for a metal or plastic lid marked with “water”.

If you can’t spot it outside, it might be indoors. Common places to check include near the stop tap, often under the kitchen sink, in the bathroom, or by the boiler.

For those living in flats or apartments, water meters are usually located in the building’s communal cupboards or garages. However, they might also be inside your individual flat or apartment.

If you can’t locate your water meter, it might be worth contacting your local water supplier for assistance. They’ll have records of installations and can guide you accurately.

Businesses often have multiple water meters due to larger premises and higher consumption needs. Knowing where these meters are located is essential for accurate monitoring and management.

Start by examining the property’s perimeter, specifically near the main water supply entry point. In commercial buildings, water meters can often be found in utility rooms, basements, or specific meter rooms.

For larger commercial premises, the water meter might be in a secure enclosure or a designated meter room. It’s important to note that business owners might require a key or access card to enter these areas.

Additionally, businesses might have sub-meters for different departments or sections, facilitating more detailed monitoring.

If you’re struggling to locate your water meter, consult your facility manager or maintenance team. They should have diagrams and records indicating the locations of all meters.

Your supplier should read your meter regularly, usually once or twice a year, however it’s important that you submit regular readings too.

If your supplier calculates your bill based on their readings, it may be higher or lower than your actual usage, meaning you’ll be over- or undercharged.

Reading a water meter is as easy as:

Your water meter is typically housed in a small chamber beneath a metal or plastic cover. Meters are sometimes covered with large cast iron covers, which we advise against lifting for safety reasons.

Once the cover is removed, you may see a polystyrene frost cover which will need to be taken out to access the meter.

Outdoor meters can share chambers, making it tricky to tell which one is yours. Match the serial number on your water bill to the serial number on the meter to make sure you’re reading the right one.

On the face of your water meter, you’ll notice two sets of numbers: black on the left and red on the right. The black numbers indicate the cubic metres of water you’ve used, while the red numbers and dials represent litres.

When taking your meter reading, ignore the red numbers and only note down the black numbers.

How you submit your water meter reading will depend on your supplier. You can generally submit readings online through their website or by giving them a call.

If you’re a water metering client of ours, send us your readings and we’ll submit these to your supplier for you. Upload them to our online portal here or share them with your dedicated energy consultant via email or a phone call.

Now you have a clearer understanding of how to find and read your water meter, you’re well on your way to better water management, positively impacting both your utility bills and environmental footprint.

Want to see how your business could slash its water bills and streamline its water management? Get in touch – from the initial assessment to consolidating and installing meters, our team of experts will guide you every step of the way.

With extreme weather conditions and a growing population putting a strain on the UK’s water networks, managing our resources effectively is more crucial than ever.

Not only that, but businesses across the UK are feeling the pressure to reduce costs and increase efficiency in every area. Water usage is a significant part of this equation, and the way you manage it can directly impact your bottom line.

In this guide, we’ll explore water metering: how it works, its benefits, and how you can integrate it into your business operations to reduce costs and improve efficiency.

Water metering is the process of measuring water usage within a property or organisation with a water meter. Water meters are typically installed at entry points where water enters the property, ensuring every drop is accounted for.

By providing accurate data on water consumption, water metering allows organisations to identify areas where they can reduce usage and cut costs.

It’s key for two reasons. Firstly, it allows for accurate billing based on actual usage rather than estimates, stopping you paying for water you haven’t used.

Secondly, it gives you valuable data that can help you conserve water and highlight areas for improvement. By providing real-time insights into water consumption, smart water metering enables users to make data-driven decisions, ultimately reducing waste and promoting sustainable practices.

Understanding the mechanics of water metering can help demystify the process and make the benefits clearer. Water metering for businesses typically involves three key stages: installation, measurement, and data collection and billing.

The first step is installing the water meter, which typically requires professional services to ensure accuracy and compliance with local regulations.

The meter is installed where the main water line enters the property, capturing all water usage beyond that point.

Once installed, the meter begins recording the volume of water flowing through the system.

Modern meters, especially smart ones, offer real-time tracking and can alert users to unusual spikes that may indicate leaks or inefficiencies. These readings provide a continuous stream of data, capturing your water usage patterns over time.

Data collected by the water meter is used for both internal monitoring and external billing. For businesses, this means receiving bills that reflect actual usage, making budgeting more predictable and transparent.

Many systems also offer digital access to data, allowing you to track your consumption online and receive alerts if usage exceeds normal patterns.

Now you know what it is and how it works, let’s explore the benefits water metering can bring to your business:

Water metering offers your business serious advantages in the form of reduced water bills and improved efficiency – but are there any downsides?

Water metering can add value to businesses of all shapes and sizes, but these industries in particular can benefit from implementing metering solutions:

1. Hospitality industry

Hotels, resorts and restaurants all use significant amounts of water, making metering an essential tool for tracking and managing consumption.

By understanding usage patterns, hospitality businesses can implement measures to conserve water without compromising the guest experience, like installing low-flow fixtures or optimising laundry processes.

2. Manufacturing & industrial

For manufacturing and industrial operations, water is often a critical component of production processes. Metering helps identify high-usage areas and opportunities for recycling or reducing water use.

This not only drives sustainability but can also enhance profitability through cost savings and improved efficiency.

3. Real estate & property management

Property managers can leverage water metering to ensure fair billing practices for tenants and identify opportunities for efficiency improvements across properties.

Metering also helps in maintaining compliance with local regulations, which increasingly mandate water conservation efforts.

You can get a meter for your home for free from most household water suppliers, but it’s a little different for businesses. Only certain business water suppliers offer meters when you sign a contract with them, which will often include water meter installation.

It’s worth seeing if your current water supplier can install a water meter, be it smart or traditional. If not, consider changing your water supplier.

You may think your business has to get its water from its regional water supplier, but as of 2017, businesses in England can choose who supplies their water. So, it’s essential to get a wide range of quotes when you’re considering changing your water supply.

That’s where we come in: at U4L, we specialise in gas, electric and water metering services. We manage the end-to-end process so your switch is hassle-free, from placing your metering contracts and managing your siteworks to installing AMR or sub-metering.

Ready to start saving? Get in touch today to find out how we can streamline your water management and reduce costs for your business.

Navigating ESOS Phase 4: your guide to compliance & reporting

As the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) advances into Phase 4, businesses must prepare for new requirements that align with the UK government’s target to achieve net zero by 2050.

This phase brings a heightened focus on both energy efficiency and long-term sustainability goals, emphasising the critical role of businesses in this national effort.

This post explores what ESOS is, whether it applies to your business, the requirements for Phase 4, and how businesses can comply.

The Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) is a mandatory energy assessment scheme for large organisations in the UK.

The scheme was introduced to encourage large UK-based businesses to adopt energy-saving measures and reduce their environmental impact, thereby supporting our collective journey towards achieving net zero.

Businesses are required to conduct comprehensive energy audits, looking at the energy used by their buildings, industrial processes and transport along with any energy-efficiency opportunities.

Organisations must produce a thorough audit over a 12-month period every four years.

Companies need to comply with ESOS Phase 4 if they meet any of the following criteria:

• Employ 250 people or more
• Have an annual turnover greater than £44 million and an annual balance sheet greater than £38 million

The government are looking at lowering the ESOS balance sheet and turnover thresholds in line with the Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) thresholds, which would put more organisations in scope.

Certain public sector bodies and non-profit organisations may also fall under the scope of ESOS. Accurately assessing your organisation’s size and financial status is crucial to determine eligibility.

Who doesn’t need to comply with ESOS?

Organisations that are fully covered by ISO 50001 don’t need to carry out an ESOS assessment, but you must still notify the Environment Agency.

If your business is near the qualification threshold, it’s experienced significant changes in size recently, or it’s a public sector or non-profit organisation, it’s wise to seek external guidance to make sure you’re not at risk of penalties through non-compliance.

Take a look at the UK government’s full ESOS guidance for detailed information on assessing your qualification status, or consult a trusted advisor like U4L for tailored ESOS guidance.

The compliance period for ESOS phase 4 began on 6 December 2023, with an audit deadline set for 5 December 2027.

The timings and deadlines for each ESOS phase to date are shown below:

Phase 3 extended deadline

The audit deadline for Phase 3 was 5 June 2024, however there were delays in finalising the ESOS Phase 3 guidance and compliance portal. In response, the Environment Agency (EA) has introduced an ‘enforcement extension period’.

While the 5th June deadline remains the same, enforcement action will not be taken against non-compliant organisations if two conditions are met:

• Registration on the new compliance portal is completed by 5th June 2024
• The notification of compliance is submitted by 6th August 2024

We’re currently in the compliance period for Phase 4 of the ESOS scheme, which means your 12-month audit must be completed and submitted by 5th December 2027. Here are the new requirements organisations must meet:

1. Net zero commitments
Organisations must explore their net zero commitments and targets, detailing actions needed to achieve these goals.

2. Risk identification
Identify potential risks in moving to net zero and developing emission reduction trajectories.

3. Carbon Reduction Plan (CRP)
Provide information supporting the creation of a CRP or meeting existing carbon reduction strategies.

4. Site audit sampling
Increase clarity and guidance on site audit sampling, including minimum thresholds for audited buildings and percentage of total energy consumption sampled.

5. Compliance standards
Reports must meet either ISO 50002 or EN 16247 auditing standards, which were previously recommended but not mandatory.

6. Removing Display Energy Certificates (DECs) and Green Deal Assessments (GDAs)
These will no longer be accepted as routes to compliance.

7. Annual progress reporting
For non-SECR-compliant organisations, a reporting function on the ESOS web portal will facilitate annual progress reporting. If goals are unmet, participants must explain why.

8. Public disclosure
Following SECR guidelines, some data (such as minimum energy or carbon reduction targets and net zero assessments) may become publicly available.

9. Enhanced data requirements
Improved collection and monitoring of energy data, setting controls, and appropriate staff training will be required within the ESOS report and audit recommendations.

10. Future electricity demand
Businesses must consider their future electricity demand concerning system impact as part of the net zero assessment.

11. Publicly available data
Organisations’ ESOS submissions will be made publicly available, similar to Phase 3.

To navigate ESOS Phase 4 effectively, organisations should follow these steps:

1. Data collection
Gather comprehensive data on energy consumption across all operations, including buildings, industrial processes, and transport.

2. Analysis
Analyse the data to identify patterns, inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement.

3. Site visits
Conduct site visits to verify data accuracy and gain deeper insights into energy usage.

4. Recommendations
Develop actionable recommendations for improving energy efficiency and achieving net zero targets.

5. Review and sign off
Have an approved ESOS lead assessor review and sign off on the audit, ensuring compliance with updated regulations.

If your organisation doesn’t have a qualified assessor in-house, we can help. Our energy consultancy has qualified ESOS assessors on board that can help guide your business through the whole process – talk to our team today.

Beyond regulatory compliance and avoiding penalties, ESOS audits can act as a catalyst for sustainable operational improvements that might have been previously overlooked.

By actioning the energy-efficient insights uncovered in your ESOS audits, your organisation could save money on energy bills, lower its carbon footprint, and gain valuable visibility into energy usage trends.

These audits are indispensable tools for aligning environmental objectives with broader business goals, fostering comprehensive sustainability planning and cost savings.

There are multiple ways in which an organisation in scope can fail to meet its obligations for ESOS and incur penalties.

Common reasons for failing ESOS include:

• Missing the deadline
• Failing to conduct an energy audit
• Performing a substandard audit
• Maintaining incomplete or inaccurate records
• Publishing false information

The consequences of non-compliance vary based on the nature of the shortfall. The Environment Agency has the authority to impose fines up to £50,000, with additional daily fines until the issue is corrected.

In Phase 2, about two-thirds of organisations were found ‘compliant with remedials,’ meaning they needed to take corrective actions to meet the standards fully. A smaller proportion, around 7%, were deemed non-compliant in Phase 2, resulting in significant financial penalties.

As of November 2023, compliance audits for Phase 2 were still ongoing, with the Environment Agency issuing 105 civil penalties totaling £1,487,410.

It’s worth bearing in mind that for Phase 3, the Environment Agency adopted a stricter enforcement approach, making leniency less likely post-deadline moving forward.

Exploring renewable energy certificates for businesses

In today’s climate-conscious market, businesses are becoming increasingly committed to reducing their carbon footprints in line with the government’s “net zero by 2050” target. A simple and effective way to do this is by transitioning to renewable energy sources.

Opting for a renewable electricity supply backed by Renewable Energy Guarantee of Origin (REGO) certificates is a good starting point. These certificates, a form of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs), provide assurance that your electricity is sourced from renewable generation, supporting your business’ sustainability goals.

This post will explore renewable energy certificates, how they work, and how they can reduce the carbon emissions associated with your business.

Renewable Energy Certificates are tradable energy commodities that represent proof that 1 megawatt-hour (MWh) of electricity was generated from a renewable energy resource.

These certificates serve as a mechanism to track and trade renewable energy, ensuring that the electricity you consume is sourced from renewable generation.

By purchasing RECs, consumers and businesses can claim the environmental benefits of renewable electricity, supporting the transition to cleaner energy sources even if the physical electricity used comes from the grid.

When a renewable energy facility produces electricity, it generates one REC for every megawatt-hour produced. These certificates can then be sold on the market, either bundled with the electricity itself or separately.

Purchasing RECs helps validate a supplier’s claims about how green their energy supply is. This clarity then enables companies to claim that they’re using renewable energy, which allows them to report lower electricity consumption emissions and position themselves as environmentally responsible.

A REGO certificate helps consumers and businesses understand how much of their energy comes from renewable sources. The UK’s official energy regulator, Ofgem, issues one REGO certificate for every megawatt hour (MWh) of energy produced from accredited renewable sources like solar panels or hydroelectric power.

These certificates serve as proof of any renewable energy in a supplier’s fuel mix disclosure (FMD). An FMD requires all UK suppliers to inform their customers annually about the mix of fuels used to generate the electricity they receive.

Renewable Obligation Certificates (ROCs) are another type of REC used in the UK. They’re part of the Renewable Obligation scheme, which places an obligation on UK electricity suppliers to source an increasing proportion of their electricity from renewable sources.

Suppliers meet this obligation by presenting ROCs, which are issued to renewable energy generators based on the amount of electricity they produce.

Promoting renewable energy is essential for reducing carbon emissions in the UK. As we mentioned above, the ROC scheme played a big part in encouraging energy suppliers to source green energy. This is a crucial step towards the UK’s goal to reach net zero by 2035, when we aim to generate all our electricity from clean sources.

On top of that, trading RECs like an energy commodity boosts the renewable energy market. This approach not only lowers demand for fossil fuels but also increases demand for renewable energy, driving market growth. Let’s explore the benefits of RECs for your business – they can:

One of the primary benefits of RECs is their ability to help businesses lower their carbon footprint. By purchasing RECs, you ensure that the electricity you consume is matched by renewable energy generation.

This means that for every MWh of electricity backed by a REC, your company can report zero emissions. This can significantly reduce your company’s carbon footprint and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change.

When selecting an energy supplier, it’s essential to choose one that aligns with your sustainability goals. RECs allow you to verify whether your supplier sources electricity from renewable generation.

Energy consultants, like us, can assist you in making informed decisions about your supplier, ensuring you receive green energy while keeping your budget in mind.

Using RECs to source renewable energy can significantly strengthen your brand’s image and support your environmental, social, and governance (ESG) credentials.

Customers are increasingly looking to support green brands, so by reporting lower emissions and using green energy, your business can improve its brand image and customer loyalty.

Demonstrating your commitment to sustainability can attract investors and stakeholders who prioritise responsible business practices.

Using green energy can also reduce your business’ dependence on fossil fuels and mitigate risks associated with global supply chain disruptions. This gives your business more stability, which is beneficial from both an investment and operational perspective.

To ensure the green power you are supplied with is genuinely renewable, it’s advisable to verify information on Ofgem’s Renewables and CHP Register.

Additionally, there are several other ways to confirm the authenticity of your green energy supply:

It’s important to verify that your contract specifies the use of renewable energy. Some suppliers may advertise renewable power but still sell you a majority non-renewable contract if you haven’t explicitly requested green energy. Ensure that your contract clearly states your preference for renewable power to avoid any misunderstandings.

Suppliers are required to provide a Fuel Mix Disclosure (FMD), detailing the sources of the electricity they supply. Reviewing this disclosure can help you verify the percentage of renewable energy in your supplier’s mix. This transparency ensures that you’re genuinely supporting renewable energy generation.

Independent accreditations provide additional assurance that your electricity is green. Look for certifications from reputable organisations that verify the renewable energy credentials of your supplier.

Ground source heat pumps: a comprehensive guide for businesses

In today’s world, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a necessity. With energy costs fluctuating and environmental concerns growing, business owners are increasingly searching for efficient, eco-friendly solutions.

Enter ground source heat pumps (GSHPs). These clever systems are revolutionising how businesses heat their premises while promoting sustainability. In this blog post, we’ll explore the ins and outs of GSHPs, their benefits, and why they could be a game-changer for your business.

Ground source heat pumps are a type of renewable energy technology used to heat and cool buildings. Unlike traditional heating systems that burn fuel, GSHPs use the stable temperatures found underground to regulate indoor climates.

Nearly half of the sun’s energy is absorbed by the Earth’s surface, making ground source heat pumps an excellent renewable and sustainable resource for capturing thermal energy. As a result, they’re an incredibly efficient option for business owners looking to reduce energy costs and their carbon footprint.

By investing in GSHPs, businesses not only contribute to a healthier planet but also benefit from significant energy savings. Imagine running your operations with a system that’s not only cost-effective but also aligns with global sustainability goals. Sounds like a win-win, right?

In this post, we’ll break down how ground source heat pumps work, their installation process, costs, and more. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of why GSHPs could be the perfect fit for your business.

Ground source heat pumps operate on a simple yet effective principle. They transfer heat from the ground into buildings during the winter and reverse the process in the summer to provide cooling. Here’s how they achieve this:

The system consists of three main components: ground loops, a heat pump unit, and a distribution system. Ground loops are pipes buried underground, usually in horizontal trenches or vertical boreholes. These pipes circulate a mixture of water and antifreeze, which absorbs heat from the ground.

The heat pump unit then extracts this heat and compresses it to a higher temperature, which can be used for heating. During warmer months, this process is reversed, and the heat pump removes heat from the building, dispersing it back into the ground.

What makes GSHPs stand out is their efficiency. The constant temperature of the ground makes these systems highly reliable and efficient, regardless of seasonal weather changes. Businesses can enjoy a consistent indoor climate without the high energy costs associated with traditional heating and cooling methods.

One of the most significant advantages of GSHPs is their low environmental impact. Since they use renewable energy from the ground, they produce far fewer greenhouse gases compared to fossil fuel-based systems. This reduction in carbon emissions can help businesses meet sustainability targets and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change.

While GSHPs require an initial investment, the long-term savings are impressive. Businesses can expect lower energy bills due to the system’s efficiency and reliance on renewable energy. Over time, these savings can offset the initial costs resulting in pure savings, making GSHPs a financially sound investment.

Installing a ground source heat pump can increase the value of your property. Energy-efficient buildings are increasingly in demand, and having a commercial heat pump can make your premises more attractive to potential buyers or tenants. Investing in an energy-efficient heater is a smart move that pays off in multiple ways.

The installation of a ground source heat pump involves several steps and considerations. Here’s what businesses need to know before taking the plunge:

A commercial ground source heat pump can be installed in any commercial building, including offices, retail establishments, and factories. Such systems are particularly beneficial for industrial settings where high levels of heat are required for operational processes.

For large buildings, a cascaded GSHP system might be the ideal solution. This setup connects multiple heat pumps to deliver increased heating capacity, effectively catering to larger spaces such as factories or warehouses.

Before installation, a thorough site assessment is crucial. This involves evaluating the ground conditions, available space for ground loops, and the heating and cooling needs of the building. A professional installer will conduct this assessment to determine the best configuration for your property.

The installation process typically involves drilling boreholes or digging trenches for the ground loops. Once the loops are in place, they’re connected to the heat pump unit inside the building. This unit is then linked to the distribution system, such as radiators or underfloor heating.

Fortunately, the majority of the work needed to install a ground source heat pump occurs outdoors or in areas away from your staff and customers. This ensures minimal disruption to your business operations compared to other heating and cooling systems.

It’s important to consider the long-term aspects of GSHPs, including maintenance. While there is an initial investment and setup required, the benefits far outweigh the temporary inconvenience. Proper installation by a professional and regular maintenance will ensure the system’s longevity and efficiency, providing reliable heating and cooling for years to come.

Cost is a critical factor for any business investment, particularly in this case as you’ll want to work out your return on investment (ROI). Here, we’ll break down the costs associated with ground source heat pumps and what you can expect:

The initial cost of a GSHP system includes the price of the equipment, installation, and any necessary modifications to the building. This can range from £10,000 to £30,000 or more, depending on the size and complexity of the installation. While this may seem steep, the long-term savings and benefits often justify the upfront expense.

Once installed, GSHPs have relatively low running costs. They use electricity to operate but at a much lower rate compared to conventional heating systems. Businesses can see significant reductions in their energy bills, especially if they switch from oil or gas heating.

The UK government offer a range of financial incentives to encourage the adoption of renewable energy technologies. These can include grants, tax credits, and rebates that help offset the initial investment. We’ll explore these incentives in more detail later in the post.

To get the most out of your ground source heat pump system, it’s essential to focus on efficiency and maintenance. Here’s how to ensure your GSHP operates at peak performance:

Regular maintenance is key to the longevity and efficiency of your GSHP. This includes checking the ground loops, heat pump unit, and distribution system for any issues. Much like your boiler at home, having a professional service once a year can prevent problems and keep the system running smoothly.

There are several ways to optimise the performance of your GSHP. Ensure that your building is well-insulated to reduce heat loss. Adjust the temperature settings to match occupancy patterns, and consider integrating smart controls for better efficiency.

Keep an eye on your system’s performance and energy consumption. Monitoring tools can provide valuable insights into how the system is operating and highlight areas for improvement. Regularly reviewing and adjusting the settings can lead to significant energy savings.

The UK government is supporting the transition to renewable energy through various incentives. Here’s what businesses should know about the support available for ground source heat pumps:

Financial incentives can significantly reduce the cost of installing a GSHP. These may include grants, rebates, and tax credits. At the time of writing, there aren’t any grants, rebates or credits available, however the government has set stringent targets to achieve its Net Zero by 2050 goal, so it’s worth consulting a professional who can let you know about any changes.

Beyond financial incentives, regulatory support can also play a role. The UK government are setting targets for renewable energy adoption and implementing policies that favour sustainable technologies. Staying informed about these regulations can help businesses plan their investments strategically.

Navigating the various incentives and support schemes can be complex. Working with a professional who understands the regulatory landscape can simplify the process. They can help identify the best options for your business and guide you through the application process.

We’re delighted to have exhibited at the Independent Schools’ Bursars Association (ISBA) Conference 2024.

The ISBA’s conference was held at the International Convention Centre in Newport, Wales, from Monday 20th to Wednesday 22nd May.

The conference brings together many of the independent education sector’s leading experts, along with an exhibition of 180 professional advisors and companies like us who work closely with independent schools.

Held over two and a half days, the conference attracted over 500 bursars and senior management staff from independent schools. With a full program of keynotes and talks from experts, delegates were given the opportunity to get the latest advice and updates on trending topics and issues facing the sector.

U4L energy consultants Sommar and Steve with Matt, our Head of Commercial

“The ISBA conference is a key event for us to connect with industry leaders and decision-makers, sharing insights and solutions that can transform how schools approach energy consumption and environmental impact.”

“We were excited to present U4L’s comprehensive approach to energy management, which not only drives cost savings for our clients but significantly reduces their environmental impact.”

Climate change is a pressing global issue, and businesses play a crucial role in tackling it. One of the primary tools the UK government uses to incentivise energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions is the Climate Change Levy (CCL).

In this post, we’ll provide an in-depth look at the CCL, explaining its purpose, who it applies to, and ways you can reduce your business’ CCL liability.

The Climate Change Levy (CCL) is a tax on the energy used by businesses. It was introduced by the UK government in 2001 as part of a broader strategy to promote energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

The primary aim of the CCL is to encourage businesses to adopt energy-efficient practices and invest in renewable energy sources. By taxing energy consumption, the levy creates a financial incentive for companies to reduce their energy usage, in turn lowering their carbon footprint.

The CCL is calculated based on a business’s energy consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh). However, not all businesses are subject to the same rates, as there are exemptions and discounts available.

CCL is paid at either the main rate or the Carbon Price Support (CPS) rate, which differ in the following ways:

Main rates: Any business in the commercial, agricultural, public services and industrial sectors will be charged at the main rate on electricity, gas and solid fuel use. You’ll typically find these rates listed on your business energy bills (and we’ve included the current rates further down).

CPS rate: This is paid by owners of electricity generating stations and operators of combined heat and power stations. Any businesses that generate some or all of their own energy (through solar panels or wind turbines, for example) will usually be exempt from this charge as they’re classed as small generators.

The CCL applies to most non-domestic energy use in the UK, including electricity, gas, LPG, coal and other solid fuels. It doesn’t apply to domestic energy consumption or transportation fuels. The amount a business pays in CCL depends on their energy usage and whether they qualify for any exemptions or discounts.

Generally, the CCL applies to businesses in the industrial, commercial, agricultural, and public service sectors. However, there are specific exemptions and reduced rates available.

• Certain energy-intensive industries that have entered into Climate Change Agreements (CCAs) can receive significant discounts on their CCL payments.
• Energy derived from renewable sources, such as solar and wind, is exempt from the CCL.
• Domestic energy use and charities engaged in non-commercial activities are also exempt from the levy.

Eligible businesses aiming to pay a reduced Climate Change Levy rate can enter into Climate Change Agreements (CCAs) with the Environmental Agency.

These voluntary agreements set energy efficiency or carbon reduction targets for businesses in exchange for a substantial discount on their CCL payments. Businesses entered into a CCA will receive a 90% reduction in the CCL rate on electricity bills, and a 65% reduction on all other fuels.

By committing to these targets and demonstrating progress towards achieving them, businesses not only benefit from financial savings but also contribute to national and global efforts to combat climate change.

You can check if your business is eligible to enter into a CCA here.

If your business is eligible for a CCA, you’ll want to reduce your energy consumption and improve energy efficiency to effectively meet your targets.

If your business isn’t eligible for a CCA, it’s wise to focus on energy efficiency regardless. As the climate change levy is calculated based on consumption, the less energy you use, the less CCL you’ll pay.

Here are a few ways to make your business more energy efficient:

1. Conduct energy audits: Assess your energy usage to identify areas for improvement in energy consumption.
2. Invest in energy-efficient equipment: Upgrade to energy-efficient lighting, heating, and cooling systems.
3. Implement energy management systems: Use smart meters and energy management software to monitor and control energy usage.
4. Employee training: Educate employees on energy-saving practices.
5. Renewable energy investments: Consider investing in renewable energy sources to not only reduce CCL liability but also support sustainability goals.

The current CCL rates for the main taxable commodities are as follows:

If your business holds a climate change agreement, your CCL percentage discounts are shown below:

The rates for the Climate Change Levy are periodically reviewed and adjusted by the government. It’s important that you stay informed about these changes to accurately forecast your business energy costs. For the latest rates, you can always refer to the UK government website.

The UK government continually reviews the CCL to align with its long-term environmental goals. Future changes may include adjustments to levy rates, expansion of exemptions, and enhancements to Climate Change Agreements.

Staying up to date with policy changes is vital for businesses to adapt and remain compliant. Regularly checking official government resources and consulting with energy experts like U4L can help businesses stay informed about any updates.

In a world where renewable energy sources are more crucial than ever, solar power stands out as a key player. But as with any technology, there’s always room for improvement. Enter solar panel optimisers, a game-changing solution designed to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of solar panels.

If you’ve been considering installing solar panels or you just want to make the most of your current set-up, understanding solar panel optimisers could be your next step towards a greener future. This guide will explore what solar panel optimisers are, how they work, and whether a solar panel optimiser is right for you.

A solar panel optimiser is a device that integrates into your solar panel system to maximise each panel’s energy production. Unlike a traditional solar power system, where the performance of every panel is determined by the lowest-performing panel, optimisers allow each panel to perform at its best.

Solar panel optimisers work by utilising Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) technology, which adjusts the voltage and current of each panel to make sure it operates at peak efficiency regardless of the conditions. This optimisation process helps reduce lost power caused by external conditions, resulting in a more consistent and higher power output.

The goal of a solar panel optimiser is to harness the maximum amount of energy from each solar panel in a system. External conditions like shading, dust or dirt on the panels, or panel variations can reduce the efficiency of the entire solar panel system, even if just one panel is affected.

For example, say one solar panel is covered by shade from a tree or passing cloud and can only produce a 50% output. All the other panels in that string will then mirror the output of the shaded panel, even if they’re not in the shade, bringing your overall output down to 50%.

With an optimiser, any underperforming panels are optimised to produce the best possible output. This means your solar panels will perform more efficiently and produce more energy, even in less-than-ideal conditions.

Now you’re more familiar with what solar panel optimisers are and how they work, let’s look at the pros and cons:

There are four main types of solar optimisers: DC optimisers, smart panels, maxim panels and microinverters. The best type for you will depend on your budget, available space and whether you have an existing system already, so let’s explore:

1. DC optimisers

DC optimisers attach to traditional solar panels and help regulate the output of every panel. Each optimiser is connected and joined to an inverter, optimising the DC electricity produced by your panels before it gets converted to AC electricity.

The best part is that you don’t need a DC optimiser on every panel. You can simply add the device to any panels prone to underperforming and that’ll optimise the entire system’s performance.

Best for: those with traditional solar panels wanting to boost their performance, or with minimal shading issues.

2. Smart panels

Also known as integrated DC optimisers, smart solar panels come with the optimiser already built in, giving you optimised energy from the get-go.

As each panel has a built-in optimiser, you can’t single out the underperforming panels as you would with a traditional DC optimiser.

That said, buying smart panels can work out cheaper than buying standard solar panels with separate optimisers, depending on how many you need.

Best for: those looking to start from scratch or update their system.

3. Maxim panels

Maxim panels can be considered solar cell optimisers, rather than solar panel optimisers.

Solar cells are like the building blocks of a solar panel: multiple solar cells make up a solar panel, and multiple solar panels make up a module.

The difference maxim panel optimisation brings is that each cell string is optimised, unlike a module-level optimiser which works across the whole panel. Ultimately, any partially-shaded modules will be less impacted, resulting in a greater and more efficient energy yield.

You can’t buy Maxim panels as such – the company, Maxim Integrated, make chips which are then used by solar panel manufacturers like Jinko Solar and Suntech.

Best for: spaces prone to shading issues.

4. Microinverters

Microinverters are simply mini inverters. Not only do they optimise the output of each solar panel, but they also immediately convert the electricity from DC to AC at the solar panel level.

Each solar panel has its own integrated optimiser and inverter, allowing them to function independently. This prevents any underperforming panels impacting the rest of the system, and means you can scale your system with ease.

Best for: those looking to start small initially and add more solar panels down the line.

Which brands are best?

Another point to consider is which brands to look out for. Tigo and SolarEdge are two of the most popular.

Tigo’s clever optimisation technology means their optimisers can work with any inverter. SolarEdge offer integrated systems where the optimisers, inverter and monitoring system are all SolarEdge-made, meaning no compatibility issues.

Optimisers are made to be low maintenance, just like your solar panels. Once they’re up and running, they get to work in the background, quietly optimising your solar production.

That said, as with any electronic device, they can be susceptible to issues. Luckily, the monitoring system will soon flag any issues that arise so you can ask your installer to investigate.

While it’s true that adding an optimiser to your solar panel set up will increase the overall cost, it’s worth considering the long-term saving. By helping you battle against preventable power losses, optimisers help bring a quicker return on investment as well as increased energy savings. Not to mention the peace of mind that comes from knowing every panel is pulling its weight, rain or shine.

U4L, a full-service energy consultancy based in Bournemouth, is proud to announce its partnership with Premier League football club AFC Bournemouth.

As a consultancy dedicated to championing energy efficiency and renewable energy solutions, U4L is delighted to sponsor AFC Bournemouth as its first-ever football club partnership.

The partnership marks an exciting new chapter for U4L as it looks to support its local club and community, further advocate sustainability, and forge connections with other businesses.

Spanning multiple seasons, the collaboration underscores U4L’s commitment to making a positive impact on the community while supporting the club’s vision for a greener, more sustainable future.

Brian Benjafield, Commercial Executive at AFC Bournemouth, with Sommar Parker, Energy Consultant at U4L, at Vitality Stadium – home of AFC Bournemouth.

“We’re incredibly excited to be sponsoring AFC Bournemouth: as a Bournemouth-based business, we take pride in supporting our local club. We look forward to building a long-lasting relationship while working with the club on their sustainability goals.”

“We are pleased to welcome U4L on board as a CLUB Regional Partner and look forward to working with another of our local businesses.”

Concerned about creeping energy bill prices? You’re not alone. With the economy in turmoil and energy prices continuing to fluctuate, businesses across the UK are looking to reduce how much they’re spending on energy.

From turning the lights off after-hours to installing smart meters, there are plenty of ways to cut costs and save energy in the workplace – but have you considered voltage optimisation technology?

This guide looks at what voltage optimisation is, how it works and whether a voltage optimiser is right for your organisation. Let’s go!

Voltage optimisation is simpler than it sounds: it just means balancing your power supply. A voltage optimiser converts the energy supply coming into your premises so it’s the right voltage for your electrical equipment.

To better understand the magic of voltage optimisation, let’s dive into why it’s needed in the first place.

Power is supplied from the National Grid at around 242 volts in the UK, but most electrical equipment only needs 220v to run efficiently. We don’t tend to notice this issue at home – electronic gadgets like our phones and toothbrushes already have transformers built into the power cables to convert the power supply.

But if you’re running a business, the difference between the power you’re supplied and the power you’re using is a much bigger issue – one that’s costing you money and time.

Voltage optimisers are installed where your electricity supply comes in, usually between your transformer and main low voltage distribution board.

While the voltage your premises receives is higher than necessary, it can also vary dramatically during the day due to fluctuations in supply and demand. This can result in power surges or dips, which are sudden increases or decreases in power.

This means that the 242v of power your premises is supplied with could actually range anywhere from 210-250v. Fluctuations in your power supply can cause damage to your equipment, disrupt your operations and even trip sensitive equipment.

Voltage optimisers work like a control valve: when any electricity passes through the voltage optimiser, it’s cleaned, balanced and regulated to the optimum levels for your appliances and equipment.

Without a voltage optimiser, you’re not only paying for power you aren’t using, but your appliances have too much electricity running through them.

If you supply an electrical device with more power than it needs, it doesn’t work any better: it simply wastes the extra energy as heat.

Over-voltage can cause all sorts of problems, from reducing your equipment’s lifespan to burning out parts of your appliance and racking up maintenance costs.

By reducing the voltage with a voltage optimiser (typically anywhere between 10-19%), you reduce the wasted energy and make your equipment run more efficiently.

Plus, the energy you save is energy you’re not drawing from the power supply, so you’re not only saving money but you’re reducing your carbon emissions and doing your bit for the planet, too.

Now you understand what voltage optimisation is and how it works, let’s weigh up the pros and cons:

With all that in mind, the real question is will a voltage optimiser be a good fit for your business? Here are a few things to consider:

1. Your business plans

Consider your organisation’s short, medium and long-term business plans to determine whether a voltage optimiser is going to be worth it. Look at the savings you could make and work out how long it’ll take to see a return on your investment.

2. Your premises

Do you rent your premises or do you own it? If you rent, or you’re planning to expand, will your business stay at this premises long enough to see a return on investment?

3. Your current energy consumption

Look at the kind of equipment used on your premises. Work out how much of the electrical equipment you use is voltage-dependent, and how much of your overall energy consumption comes from this equipment.

Examples of voltage-dependent equipment include lights, electric kettles, and anything with an operating motor, like a fridge. Voltage-independent equipment includes things like electric heating and computers.

If the vast majority of your usage comes from voltage-dependent equipment, installing a voltage optimiser would likely result in substantial savings for your business.

4. The voltage optimiser supplier

Once you know that enough of your consumption comes from voltage-dependent equipment to make it worth the investment, you then need to consider who to trust with the installation.

There will be plenty of great options out there, however it’s important to choose a trusted company who have experience installing voltage optimisers. At U4L, we’ve helped hundreds of businesses across the UK with everything from voltage optimisation installations to reducing their energy bills, so you’d be in safe hands with us.

As you now know, voltage optimisers are a clever piece of energy efficiency technology that can make a huge difference to your organisation – not only in terms of money saved, but your impact on the planet.

Want to see if your organisation could benefit from a voltage optimiser? Get in touch for a free assessment today. With over 60 years of experience, we’re your experts in all things energy so you can trust we’ll find the best solution for you.