Energy prices aren't something you can control. But how much energy your business uses is. Cutting your usage brings your bills down, and it's often easier to do than you think.

Here's how to make your business more energy efficient, from quick fixes to bigger upgrades worth planning for.

Why energy efficiency matters

Energy is one of the biggest running costs for most small businesses, so even small reductions add up over a year. Prices are also unpredictable, and cutting how much you use is one of the few things within your control when bills go up. It's not just about cost either. Using less energy lowers your carbon footprint, which matters more and more to customers, staff and suppliers when they're deciding who to work with.

Quick, low-cost changes

You don't need a big budget to start saving. Turn off lights, computers and equipment when they're not in use, and switch appliances off at the wall instead of leaving them on standby. Set heating and air conditioning to sensible temperatures with a timer, so you're not paying to heat an empty building. Fixing dripping taps and draughty doors or windows helps too, since both waste energy without you noticing. It's worth getting your team involved as well. A quick chat about switching things off when they leave a room can make a bigger difference than you'd expect, and it costs nothing to put in place.

Bigger upgrades worth planning for

Once you've covered the basics, a few bigger changes bring longer-term savings:

•        LED lighting uses far less energy than older bulbs and lasts much longer, so it pays for itself over time.

•        Better insulation keeps heat in, so your heating system doesn't have to work as hard.

•        Energy-efficient equipment often costs more upfront but uses less energy over its lifetime.

Grants and support

You may not have to cover the full cost yourself. Government-backed schemes and some energy suppliers offer grants, loans or discounts for businesses making energy efficiency improvements, from insulation to more efficient heating systems. What's available changes over time and depends on your business size, sector and location, so check gov.uk and ask your supplier what you might be eligible for before you commit to any upgrade.

Start with the free changes, since they make an immediate difference at no cost and don't need any planning. Once those habits are in place, plan bigger upgrades around your budget, and always check what support is available before you pay for anything.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need an energy audit to get started?

No. You can start making changes straight away. An audit helps if you want a clearer picture of where your energy is going, but the quick wins in this guide don't need one first.

Will switching to LED lighting really make a difference?

Yes. Lighting is often a bigger part of your energy bill than people expect, especially if you're open long hours. LED bulbs use much less energy and last far longer, so the savings build up over time.

Are there grants for small business energy efficiency?

Sometimes. Support schemes change regularly and aren't available everywhere, so check gov.uk and speak to your energy supplier to see what you could be eligible for right now.