If you operate a company, the coronavirus pandemic has almost certainly changed the way you conduct business and interact with your customers. You may have staff working from home or furloughed, or perhaps you’ve been forced to close.
During these challenging times, saving money and energy is important. Below, we have put together some practical, helpful tips to help you save energy and money. We also show how you can reconfigure your business to help your local community.
Advice for closed businesses
If you run a closed business like a restaurant, pub or entertainment venue, turn off any appliances on ‘standby’, such as televisions, non-essential broadband/Wi-Fi routers, printers, and similar devices.
In the case that part of your business can still function, you can promote working from home to minimise interaction and lower the energy consumption.
Limiting heating to the absolute minimum is recommended, as is turning off all but essential lighting.
Tips for essential services
If you run an essential service, you can streamline your operation to ensure only necessary energy sources are used. Be sure to limit or completely eliminate any energy powering areas of the business that are non-essential.
If your service supports vulnerable people, you may be eligible for a reduction in VAT. Your energy supplier will be able to further advise on any potential schemes. You may also be eligible for priority service from some UK energy suppliers.
And think: do you really need the heating on? Layering-up clothing can save money and help you do your bit for the environment.
Guidance for cafes and restaurants
It is useful to conduct a spot-check of food stocks if you own a cafe or restaurant. Any food approaching the ‘use by’ date can be resold, donated, or used as part of a takeaway service (see below).
Consider opening up as a takeaway. The Government has relaxed restrictions to enable certain types of business to continue operating. This allows you to serve your local community, help people living nearby you cannot venture out to the shops, and support front line NHS workers.
If your business is still operating, you can save money by only using lighting and power in business-critical areas.
Also remember to turn off non-essential equipment, such as fridges, freezers, TVs on standby, and any other electrical appliances.
How to reorganise your business offering
Reorganising your business can help others in need and allow you to continue trading. If you have been forced to close, you can reconfigure your business offering, or adapt in other ways.
If they are going to go to waste, consider giving away perishable items, such as food, or donating equipment and consumables to a worthy cause.
By reorganising your business, you can put your expertise and professional knowledge to good use while supporting vulnerable people and key workers in the process.
Contact TED to save money on your business energy
At TED, we help businesses of all types get the best value on their energy consumption. If you have any questions about your business energy, or want some advice about saving money during the COVID-19 pandemic, contact us today or visit our website for further information.
However, if you require advice immediately, please call a member of the team on 0845 838 9830.