This June saw a record-breaking heatwave and the commencement of an expanded World Cup, but it wasn’t just football and tropical temperatures that were a cause for celebration. This month also saw the re-opening of the Strait of Hormuz as the US and Iran brokered a tentative peace-deal that sent waves of relief across volatile global energy markets.
By Adam Novakovic May saw temperatures soar as many dusted off their barbecues, while others headed to the parks and beer gardens to make the most of the unseasonably warm weather. In the energy markets, a much-anticipated peace-deal failed to materialise as the conflict between The US/Israel and Iran looks set to continue into the summer months.
The Network Charging Compensation Scheme (NCC) For many UK businesses, rising electricity costs remain one of the biggest pressures on profitability and competitiveness. While wholesale prices often dominate headlines, network charges have been rising sharply and make up a larger percentage of energy spend than ever before. This is particularly true for energy-intensive industries. The Network Charging Compensation Scheme (NCC) was introduced with a goal of providing eligible businesses with compensation against specific electricity network costs. However, despite the potential savings available, many organisations are either unaware of the scheme or unsure whether they qualify. For businesses with high electricity usage, the NCC could provide substantial financial relief and improve long-term competitiveness. Why Was the NCC Introduced? The UK government introduced the Network Charging Compensation Scheme as part of a broader effort to support energy-intensive industries (EIIs) facing increasing international competition and high domestic energy costs. Many UK manufacturers compete globally against businesses operating in countries with lower energy costs and lower network-related charges. Without support mechanisms, these costs can make British industry less competitive. The NCC was designed to compensate eligible businesses for a proportion of specific electricity network charges -- helping reduce the disparity between UK energy costs and those faced by overseas competitors. The scheme complements other forms of support available to qualifying industries, including the IETF , the ESL , and the ETII Exemption Scheme . What Are the Benefits of the NCC? The primary benefit of the scheme is straightforward: lower electricity costs. Eligible businesses can receive compensation against Contracts for Difference , Renewables Obligation (RO) , Feed-in Tariffs (FIT) , and costs related to the Capacity Market . For a business consuming 4,000,000kWH of electricity per year, this can lead to annual savings of £225,000 . The NCC can allow businesses to:
Find below our guide to reducing your business energy costs. If you would like to talk to us about any of the cost-saving measures contained in this guide, contact us today for no-obligation, expert-advice from our team of energy experts.
Reviewing kVA Charges When UK businesses look to reduce energy spend, they often focus on unit rates , contracts, or efficiency measures. However, one of the most overlooked areas is kVA capacity . Whether your agreed capacity is set too high or too low, it can quietly add unnecessary costs to your energy bills. A simple review can save £1,000s with minimal disruption. What is kVA capacity? kVA (kilovolt-amperes) represents the maximum electrical load your site is allowed to draw from the grid at any one time. It’s essentially the “size” of your connection. Your agreed capacity is set with your Distribution Network Operator (DNO) and determines how much power your site can safely access. When your capacity is set too low, you risk exceeding it; when set too high, and you may be paying for capacity you don’t actually use. How do kVA capacity charges work? Businesses are charged for their agreed capacity, regardless of whether they fully utilise it. If your capacity is set higher than your actual usage, you’re effectively paying for unused headroom. On the other hand, if your capacity is too low and your site exceeds it, you may incur excess capacity charges or risk operational issues. Striking the right balance is key, and that’s why reviewing your kVA usage should be a regular occurrence .
April was a month where the energy markets offered sources of optimism but failed to follow through in a meaningful way. A peace deal in the Middle East seemed within touching distance, but the conflict will now continue into May, leaving markets clouded by uncertainty. UK gas prices for the upcoming winter peaked in the first week of the month. Prices then fell when it seemed likely that an agreement could be reached between the US and Iran. As peace talks were delayed -- and amidst inconsistent messages from the US leadership -- prices began to rise again – reaching a price level almost on a par with the beginning of April.
Combined Heat and Power (CHP) With an ever-increasing number of government levies forcing adding to already inflated energy bills, UK businesses are under increasing pressure to do more with less. Combined Heat and Power (CHP) is one solution that continues to gain traction. Offering a highly efficient way to generate both electricity and heat from a single fuel source. What is CHP? Combined Heat and Power, also known as cogeneration, is a system that simultaneously produces electricity and heat. Traditional power generation wastes a significant amount of energy as heat, but CHP captures and reuses that heat for on-site applications such as space heating, hot water, or industrial processes. By making use of energy that would otherwise be lost, CHP systems can achieve overall efficiencies of up to 80% or more. Significantly higher than conventional methods. What is CHP used for? CHP is well-suited to businesses with a consistent demand for both heat and electricity. This includes sectors such as manufacturing, food production, healthcare, leisure, and large commercial buildings. For example, a manufacturing site might use the electricity generated to power operations while using the recovered heat for process heating. Similarly, a hotel or hospital can use CHP to meet both power and hot water demands efficiently. The advantages for UK businesses Significant cost savings: By generating energy on-site and improving efficiency, CHP can reduce reliance on grid electricity and lower overall energy bills by up to 20% . Improved energy efficiency: Capturing and reusing heat dramatically increases the amount of useful energy produced from fuel. Reduced carbon emissions: Higher efficiency means lower emissions compared to separate heat and power generation, supporting Net Zero goals. Energy resilience: On-site generation provides greater control and can help protect against market volatility and supply disruptions. Potential revenue opportunities: In some cases, excess electricity can be exported back to the grid, creating an additional income stream. Is CHP right for your business? CHP is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Its effectiveness depends on your energy profile --particularly your heat demand. Businesses with steady, year-round heating requirements are typically the best candidates. There are also evolving considerations around fuel types, grid pricing, and carbon reporting, which make it essential to take a strategic, informed approach before investing. How SeeMore Energy can help At SeeMore Energy, we help UK businesses assess whether CHP is the right fit -- and ensure it delivers maximum value if it is. Through our network of vetted, specialist partners, we provide expert support across feasibility studies, system design, installation, and ongoing optimisation. We ensure that any CHP solution is aligned with your wider procurement approach, on-site technologies , and sustainability goals. We help you cut through complexity and make confident decisions. Combined Heat and Power offers a powerful opportunity to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and strengthen your energy resilience, but only when implemented correctly. If you’re looking to explore whether CHP could work for your business, now is the time to act. Get in touch with SeeMore Energy today to discover how our trusted partners can help you unlock the full potential of CHP.
Hydro Energy In the face of rising gas and electricity costs, UK businesses are prioritising both cost control and sustainability. Renewable energy sources are becoming an integral part of the conversation. While solar and wind often take centre stage, hydroelectric power (hydro) remains one of the most established and reliable forms of renewable energy available. What is hydro energy? Hydro energy is generated by harnessing the power of moving water. Whether from rivers, reservoirs, or tidal flows, water is used to turn turbines, which in turn generate electricity. It’s a proven technology that has been used for over a century and continues to play a key role in the UK’s energy mix. There are several types of hydro systems, including large-scale hydroelectric dams, run-of-river systems, and smaller micro-hydro installations. While large-scale projects are typically managed at a national level, microhydropower systems can be used for on-site generation in specific locations. How is hydro relevant to UK businesses? While not suitable for every business, microhydropower systems can provide a consistent and predictable source of power by using a turbine or water wheel to convert the energy of flowing water. Initial investment can be high for these projects, but they have low maintenance costs and a long lifespan. The advantages of hydro energy Reliable and consistent: Unlike some other renewable sources, hydro can provide a steady and predictable output, particularly in controlled environments. Low carbon: Hydroelectric power produces minimal greenhouse gas emissions, supporting Net Zero and ESG objectives. Long lifespan: Hydro infrastructure is known for its durability, often operating efficiently for decades. Energy mix diversification: Including hydro in your energy supply reduces reliance on a single source, improving resilience. Is hydro the right solution for your business? While hydro may not always be a direct, on-site solution like solar or battery storage , it plays an important role in a well-rounded energy strategy. For businesses that have the ability to use microhydropower as an on-site sources of electricity generation, it is an option worthy of serious consideration. Understanding how hydro fits into your overall energy mix can help you make more informed procurement decisions and ensure you’re getting genuine value from your renewable commitments. How SeeMore Energy can help At SeeMore Energy, we help UK businesses navigate the complexities of energy procurement and renewable sourcing. Through our network of trusted partners and suppliers, we can identify contracts that incorporate high-quality renewable energy -- including hydro -- while remaining competitive on price. Hydro energy offers a reliable, low-carbon way to strengthen your energy strategy, without the need for major infrastructure changes. Get in touch with SeeMore Energy today to explore how renewable energy options, including hydro, can support your business goals.
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Ground Source Heat Pumps As UK businesses face rising energy costs and increasing pressure to decarbonise, many are exploring low-carbon alternatives to traditional heating systems. Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHPs) are one of the most efficient and reliable solutions available. They offer long-term savings, improved sustainability, and greater energy resilience. What are Ground Source Heat Pumps? Ground Source Heat Pumps use natural heat stored in the ground to provide heating -- and in some cases cooling -- for buildings. Pipes are buried underground (either horizontally or vertically), circulating a fluid that absorbs the earth’s stable temperature. This heat is then transferred into the building via a heat pump, which amplifies it to a usable level. Unlike conventional systems that burn fuel, GSHPs use electricity to move heat rather than generate it, making them significantly more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. GSHPs can be used to heat offices, warehouses, retail units, and a variety of other commercial spaces. They are particularly well-suited to buildings with consistent heating demand and available land for ground loops. They can also work alongside existing systems or be integrated with underfloor heating and low-temperature radiators, delivering steady, comfortable heat throughout the building. The advantages for UK businesses Ground Source Heat Pumps offer a range of benefits: Exceptional efficiency: GSHPs can deliver 3–4 units of heat for every unit of electricity used, significantly reducing energy consumption compared to traditional heating systems. Lower long-term costs: While installation requires upfront investment, the ongoing savings on energy bills can deliver strong returns over time. Reduced carbon emissions: By switching from gas or oil to a renewable heat source, businesses can make substantial progress toward Net Zero targets. Energy price stability: Less reliance on fossil fuels helps protect your business from market volatility and rising gas prices. Low maintenance and long lifespan: Ground loops can last over 50 years, with heat pumps typically requiring minimal maintenance compared to conventional boilers. Is it right for your business? GSHPs are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Factors such as available land, building type, and current heating infrastructure all play a role in determining suitability. However, for businesses with the right conditions, they can be a highly effective long-term investment. How SeeMore Energy can help At SeeMore Energy, we help UK businesses navigate the transition to low-carbon heating with confidence. Through our network of vetted, specialist partners, we provide expert guidance on feasibility, system design, installation, and performance optimisation. We ensure that your Ground Source Heat Pump integrates seamlessly with your wider energy strategy, including procurement , on-site generation , and efficiency measures. Our goal is to help you maximise savings while reducing your environmental impact. Ready to future-proof your heating? Ground Source Heat Pumps offer a powerful combination of efficiency, sustainability, and long-term cost control. For forward-thinking businesses, they represent a clear step toward a cleaner, more resilient energy future. Get in touch with SeeMore Energy today to explore whether a Ground Source Heat Pump is right for your business.
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Meter Operator (MOP) For many UK businesses, Meter Operator (MOP) services are an essential but often overlooked part of their energy setup. While they may sit quietly in the background, the quality and cost of your MOP arrangement can have a direct impact on your billing accuracy, operational efficiency, and overall energy spend. What is a Meter Operator (MOP)? A Meter Operator is responsible for the installation, maintenance, and ongoing operation of your electricity meter -- particularly for half-hourly (HH) metering systems. Their role ensures that your meter is functioning correctly, compliant with industry regulations, and capable of accurately recording your energy usage. In simple terms, if your meter isn’t working properly, everything that follows -- data collection , billing, and analysis -- can be compromised. That makes the MOP a critical foundation of your energy infrastructure. How are MOP services normally assigned? In most cases, your energy supplier will appoint a MOP on your behalf as part of your contract. This is often done by default, with little visibility for the customer. While convenient, this approach means businesses rarely question the cost or performance of the appointed provider. As a result, many organisations end up in long-standing arrangements that may not be competitive or aligned with their current needs. What are you paying for? MOP charges are typically included within your energy contract or presented as a separate line item. These costs cover meter installation, maintenance, fault resolution, and compliance checks. However, because they are often bundled into broader energy costs, businesses may not realise how much they are paying, or whether they are getting value for money. The value of contracting your MOP directly Taking control of your MOP contract can unlock several key advantages: Cost savings: By sourcing your own MOP provider, you can benchmark the market and secure more competitive rates, often reducing unnecessary mark-ups applied by suppliers who may bury the costs within your Standing Charge . Improved service quality: Direct relationships with MOP providers can lead to faster response times, better communication, and more proactive maintenance. Greater transparency: You gain full visibility over what you’re paying for and the service levels being delivered. Flexibility and control: Tailor your metering strategy to suit your business. Whether that’s upgrading equipment, integrating with energy management systems, or supporting wider efficiency initiatives. Stronger data foundations: A well-maintained and optimised meter ensures accurate data collection, which is essential for billing validation and identifying savings opportunities. How SeeMore Energy can help At SeeMore Energy, we help UK businesses take control of their MOP arrangements. Through our network of vetted, specialist partners, we can review your current setup, identify inefficiencies, and source competitive alternatives tailored to your needs. By aligning your metering strategy with your wider energy procurement and data services, we ensure everything works together seamlessly to deliver maximum value. Our independent approach means you get clear, unbiased advice -- helping you make informed decisions that benefit your business both now and in the long term. Take control of your metering strategy today If your Meter Operator has been assigned without your knowledge, there’s a strong chance you could be overpaying or missing out on better service. Get in touch with SeeMore Energy today to review your MOP arrangements and discover how we can help you reduce costs, improve performance, and build a smarter, more efficient energy strategy.
