The UK energy prices have significantly increased due to the rising cost of burning fossil fuels. Despite government energy price caps, many businesses are still concerned and looking for cost-effective ways to reduce consumption. An effective way to reduce business energy bills is to look into renewable energy. To reach net zero emissions by 2050, the UK needs to transition to a power system powered by 100% carbon-free electricity generation.
This article looks at the four main types of sustainable energy alternatives and the benefits of switching your business energy to a renewable energy tariff.
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What Is Sustainable Energy?
Sustainable energy is derived from alternative energy resources that do not worsen climate change or threaten the environment. These sustainable energy sources can meet the demands without compromising resource availability.
Examples of sustainable energy alternatives. are solar energy, geothermal energy as well as hydro and wind power. They are considered long-lasting and can replenish themselves without causing direct harm to the environment.
What Renewable Business Energy Options Are Available?
Depending on location and investment budget, your business can choose from multiple renewable energy options.
1. Solar Power
Solar energy is generated using sunlight. Electricity is generated when sunlight hits the solar cells in the solar panel and stores energy on cloudy days.
According to the Energy Saving Trust, installing solar panels can save you over £500 a year on your business energy bills. The main disadvantage of installing solar panels is the high initial installation cost. However, the high initial costs pay themselves back since solar panels last up to 25 years, which amounts to significant cost savings in the long run.
2. Hydroelectric Power
Hydroelectric power, known as hydro power, uses moving water to generate electricity. Most hydropower plants have a water reservoir. Penstocks or pipes carry water to spinning turbine blades, which spin generators to produce electricity. The UK generates 5,700 Gwh from its hydroelectric power plants.
Not only is hydropower considered the most efficient and reliable source of energy, but the water flow can be adjusted to meet demand, and electricity can be generated when needed. Hydropower disadvantages include being site-specific and may not be available in your area, and it is very expensive to install.
3. Wind Power
Wind power is generated using wind turbines. Wind power is the most efficient electricity production technology. Wind power produces zero emissions, is inexhaustible, and provides 24 percent of the UK’s electricity. The government hopes to power homes using wind power by 2050.
Although unpredictable changes in the weather can make wind power unreliable, the UK, on the other hand, is considered the windiest place in Europe and has plenty of energy suppliers that offer wind power as a renewable energy source.
4. Geothermal Energy
Geothermal energy is derived from the heat stored in the ground. A hole is drilled in the heated rocks; steam is generated by pumping water down the holes. A turbine propels the blades of a steam turbine by drawing steam up to the surface. Powered by a generator, this produces electricity.
Geothermal energy is always available and can be generated all year round. It can also save between 30 to 70 percent in heating costs. Geothermal energy is expensive; however, your investment will pay off in the long run.
Benefits Of Switching To Sustainable Energy Sources
- Reduces Your Carbon Footprint: One of the major benefits of switching to a renewable energy source as a business is reducing your carbon footprint. Most energy suppliers offer a green energy tariff. Since the energy crisis, using a comparison website or an energy broker would be best to find an energy supplier that can offer you the best deal.
- Lower Energy Bills: Perhaps the biggest advantage of switching to a sustainable energy source is seeing a dramatic difference in price on your energy bill.
- Consistent Energy Supply: Power interruptions can be a hassle and bad for business. However, switching to a renewable energy source means having a consistent energy supply with fewer interruptions.
- Expand Your Customer Base: Businesses know attracting and retaining new consumers is important. Switching to renewable energy means attracting an environmentally conscious customer base that supports businesses embracing green energy and environmentally friendly best practices.
Final Thoughts
While businesses can choose from several renewable and sustainable energy sources, the four sources listed above are readily available and easily accessible.
Switching to renewable energy has countless benefits. Use a comparison site or energy broker to find a green energy supplier and lock in a good deal.