Energy is an inevitable cost for most businesses. As costs fluctuate and environmental legislation becomes increasingly complex, more businesses are investigating the opportunities offered by renewable energy sources. These technologies are becoming ever more important as we move towards a more sustainable society.
There are a wide range of options available for businesses looking to implement renewable power technologies. Finding the right one depends on where it is located and the amount you are ultimately willing to invest:
- Wind power – Uses wind turbines to generate electricity
- Solar PV panels – Uses sunlight to generate electricity
- Solar thermal energy – Uses sunlight to heat the water stored in your hot water tank
- Biomass systems – Generates electricity and heat by burning or fermenting organic material, such as straw or wood pellets, with a combined heat and power plant
- Anaerobic digestion – Generates heat and electricity by burning the methane produced by breaking down organic material, such as plant or animal waste
- Geothermal and ground source heat pumps – Use low-level heat naturally contained in the ground to provide both heating and cooling
- Hydroelectric power – Generates electricity from the water flowing through an immersed turbine or water wheel
Switching to renewable power can bring many positives to every kind of business, both large and small. Below are a just a few of the main benefits in making the transition towards a sustainable future.
Potential Profit
Businesses can now be energy generators as well as a consumers. This makes it possible to profit from the energy you generate through your renewable energy technologies. You can sell unused energy back to the grid.
Independence
Generating your own energy means you will not be reliant on purchasing power from suppliers. It also gives you control over your own energy prices, meaning you are not at the mercy of the wholesale market and some of the third-party charges that make up the delivery of electricity. If you are looking to ensure energy security, then renewable could be the way forward for your business.
Reduce emissions
Renewable energy produces undoubtedly a lower amount of greenhouse gases than fossil fuels and is one way to help tackle the climate crisis. If you are looking to reduce your carbon footprint, then switching to renewables could be one of the quickest and easiest ways to do so whilst helping to protect our environment. If you have carbon reduction targets in place, then it’s certainly worth looking into.
It won’t run out!
Renewable energy is constantly being replenished. Flowing water, plant matter, heat from the planet’s core, sunny skies and strong winds are inexhaustible and provide an immense source of sustainable energy. By generating electricity from these, you can help to make sure that we prolong Earth’s resources.
Your business has lots to gain from adopting alternative energy sources. Before you start your journey, an important part of the process is determining what you want to gain or achieve by using renewable energy. Once you have these main objectives you will be able to work out the best route forward.
As a business energy consultant, Indigo Swan is here to offer guidance and advice.
Please feel free to get in touch to discuss your options.
