Beating the Energy Bill Blues - Five Top Tips

Frustrating as it may be that energy companies seem quicker to increase tariffs when wholesale prices go up than to decrease them when they fall, the reality is that controlling your energy costs is a priority. With compromising on comfort out of bounds what else can be done in a cold winter of high prices?

Tip 1: Start Monitoring

It may not save any money in itself, but you can't manage what you don't measure. A recent SWT/ Exeter University study found 44% of SW tourism businesses only review energy bills as they arrive, and 11% not at all. If you don't already, try to monitor at least monthly or weekly. Make use of advice on monitoring and Which? advice on Best Buy Energy Monitors and their video introduction. Don't forget to check that your bill is accurate too!

Tip 2: Consider Switching

Although price rises have been fairly common across energy suppliers, if you haven't considered switching supplier recently it may be worth checking that you are on the best deal for you. If you a member of a Destination Management Organisation, check to see if one of your benefits is a free commercial energy brokerage service. Moneysavingexpert's website also includes information (although its focus is on domestic tariffs).

Tip 3 - Focus on Saving

The Carbon Trust estimates that savings of 20% are available to hospitality businesses via low, or no cost, actions. You've probably already put some measures in place, but why not have another quick walk round, checking that there is nothing left on that could be switched off, or replaced with a more efficient equivalent next time round. Use the Green Start Action Planning tool,  the SWT website for specific ideas, including the popular room cards, and check out Which? energy efficient ‘Best Buys'.

Tip 4 - Look into Generating

Many tourism businesses use locally produced/ home grown food and drink but what about ‘home-made energy'? The Government's feed-in tariff provides a financial incentive for businesses - providing a better return on the investment - and there are even opportunities to get ‘PV for Free'. Look at this introductory guide to renewable energy for tourism businesses.

Tip 5 - Receive Support

There is a variety of support around the region:

Cotswolds & Forest of Dean - The RELACS project is offering free energy audits and support for energy saving and renewable energy solutions to tourist accommodation. Contact Jackie Williams - Jackie@swea.co.uk

Somerset - 8^th February, Taunton - Green Edge - the new version of the national training course that provides a one day introduction. More info here

Dorset - 8^th February, Dorchester - Green Edge. More info here

Devon - 29 March (Totnes), 31 March (Exeter) - Green Edge. More info here

Cornwall - Green Edge (dates tbc). Make use of CoaST!

Date added: Monday 17th January 2011
Latest updated: Thursday 8th March 2012