Small businesses fear phantom energy use this winter

Small business owners are increasingly concerned about energy costs and the invisible drain of electricity from devices left plugged in or on standby, according to new research. A poll of 1,000 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) commissioned by Smart Energy GB found that 92% of respondents consider managing energy expenses a primary concern for the winter months. A significant majority, 80%, expressed worry about 'phantom' power consumption, where appliances continue to draw electricity even when switched off or not actively in use.

Common devices contributing to energy waste

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The research highlighted several common workplace appliances that contribute to this 'phantom' load. Many businesses admitted to leaving desktop computers and screens (43%), printers and photocopiers (42%), and laptop chargers (37%) plugged in when not in use. Other frequently cited culprits include mobile phone chargers and microwaves (both 33%), coffee machines (32%), and televisions (25%). Furthermore, 43% of businesses reported leaving printers, photocopiers, or computers on overnight, and 20% acknowledged keeping fridges and freezers set colder than necessary.

For businesses that have not yet adopted smart meter technology, the lack of visibility into energy usage outside of operating hours is a significant issue. Of those without a smart meter, 41% stated they are unaware of how much energy their premises consumes during non-working periods. This lack of insight can lead to unexpected costs and difficulties in managing budgets effectively.

Smart meters offer greater control and savings

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In contrast, businesses that have installed smart meters reported positive outcomes. A substantial 91% of SMEs with a smart meter indicated that it has helped them identify opportunities to reduce their energy bills. This technology provides real-time data on energy consumption, enabling owners to pinpoint areas of waste and make informed decisions to cut costs. Paul Watts, who manages Bookshop on the Heath, a long-standing London bookshop, shared his experience: 'Having a smart meter has given me a much better understanding of where our energy is being used, making it easier to manage our costs and make changes to save where we can.' He added that the installation process was quick and easy, expressing regret for not adopting it sooner.

The study also noted that 96% of all businesses polled have implemented measures to conserve energy. These actions include switching off lights in unoccupied areas (53%), reducing heating overnight (46%), and turning appliances off at the wall instead of leaving them on standby (42%). Other energy-saving strategies involve transitioning to LED lighting (39%), heating only occupied rooms (36%), and training staff on energy-efficient practices (36%). Despite these efforts, 54% of business owners feel that gas and electricity costs are among the business expenses they have the least control over.

Smart Energy GB has partnered with former small business owner and television personality Yvette Fielding to encourage businesses to address their energy usage. Fielding advised business owners to investigate their outgoings and identify potential savings, particularly by ensuring they are not paying for energy the business does not need. She stated, 'Getting a smart meter installed can help owners identify what’s silently draining energy and costing their business money.'