Utilities

<p style="text-align: justify;">Gas prices have increased by more than 300 percent, which in turn forces up the cost of electricity.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">A cold winter puts pressure on supplies and the amount of gas stored, and there has been increased demand from Asia.&nbsp;</p><p style="text-align: justify;">The Ukraine crisis has seen further volatility in the energy market. The increase in energy costs is a global issue. &nbsp;</p><p style="text-align: justify;">I have been reminding the clients and local businesses of the steps that can be taken to control and reduce commercial energy costs. &nbsp;</p><h3 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Measures for Energy Efficiency</span></h3><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">We need to ensure lighting and equipment in the rooms or other places not occupied, are switched off. &nbsp;</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Switch lighting to LED equivalents. Older style, the florescent tube can consume sixty percent more energy, so upgrading your fittings and fixtures can have a significant impact. &nbsp;</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Review your current energy bill to see if you are on the best tariff available. Costs are higher, but you may not be getting the best value already.&nbsp;</li></ul><p>Sorola Energy in Rotherham is asking local businesses not to neglect simple measures still seen regularly around South Yorkshire.</p><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">What is the EU doing to address high energy prices and secure energy supply?</span></h2><p>To address the increase in energy prices, the EU has made plans to ensure a level of preparedness for increasing gas storage capacity ahead of the winter months.</p><p>The UK government is expanding the Energy Company Obligations to specifically aid low-income households and a major acceleration of homegrown power in Britain.&nbsp;</p><p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><em>This article was contributed by our expert <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccawinncusmultiutility/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rebecca Winn</a>.</em></span></p><h3 style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</h3><h3 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 18pt;">Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Rebecca Winn</span></h3><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">1. Why do we need to conserve energy resources?</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Conserving energy is all about being more responsible with the energy we&rsquo;re using now to ensure that we are protecting our environment and preserving fossil fuels for future generations.&nbsp;</p><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">2. What wastes the most electricity in the average household?</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Washing machines, dishwashers, and tumble dryers account for around 14% of a typical energy bill, while fridges and freezers account for about 13% of the average household&rsquo;s energy bill.</p><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">3. Does unplugging things save money?</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">The simple answer is Yes! Although you may not think it, even a mobile phone charger plugged in and not in use means you&rsquo;ll be paying for electricity that&rsquo;s literally doing nothing.&nbsp;</p><p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p><p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p>