The summer months are now behind us, and winter is coming. As such, energy usage across the UK is likely to soar – in fact, the Government’s research shows that, on average, the demand for energy on a winter’s day is 36% higher than on a summer’s day.

In the darker and colder months, solar generation is minimal. However, wind levels are generally stronger which causes major fluctuations in the UK’s renewable energy supply. As such, the country isn’t able to rely on renewables during the times where demand is heavily increased.

Typically, the increased demand for gas required to heat offices sees the price rise, and also has a knock-on impact on electricity costs too.

Furthermore, extreme weather conditions that winter brings can cause power cuts, as power lines can be damaged in the snow, wind and rain. Continued weathering of these areas of supply can result in high repair costs for energy suppliers – something which is always factored in to their winter pricing for businesses across the UK.

In addition, prolonged periods of harsh weather conditions often result in businesses consuming more power to stay warm and keep operations ticking over. Furthermore, when a lot of businesses are turning up the heat, this results in more demand, which can also increase the price of your energy – especially if there is a shortage in gas and electricity supply.

2020 costs could be compounded by currency fluctuations caused by the outcome of Brexit negotiations, along with a rise in the Climate Change Levy and potential changes to the Energy Intensive Industries (EII) exemption threshold, offering more industrial users relief from the cost of renewable levies, but increasing non-commodity charges for other users.

At Utility Trade Group, we can help. Our buying power in the market along with our specialised managed service provides you with clearer visibility of your consumption, unlocking greater control of your energy costs, and increasing your profits.

Our end-to-end service of energy management and managed services not only helps you have access to the best energy rates in the market, but it also helps your business to run more efficiently too.

Utility Trade Group are experts in the energy procurement field, so why don’t you get in touch with us today to lock in your current contract before prices go up?

Deloitte Claim Large Fleets Could Save £1.9m a Year if They Move to EVs

The Government’s initiative to make all vehicles on the road electric isn’t just a fantastic move in the bid to contest climate change, but it could represent a fantastic cost saving too.

According to research undertaken by Deloitte, a fleet of 900 or more cars moved across to EVs could see a saving of £1.9m to the business in question.

Company car drivers, who opt for EVs will cut employee total cost of ownership bills by 95%, claim the Consultancy Firm – this is as a result of the new benefit-in-kind tax rates that are set to come into force in April 2020.

Zero emission vehicles are currently subjected to a 16% benefit-in-kind tax rate, but that figure is set to drop to 0% – one of the largest tax cuts, in any area, in recent history.

Deloitte’s analysis says that a higher-rate taxpayer who drives a diesel company car, with a list price of £30,000, can currently expect to pay just over £18,000 in tax and fuel costs over a four-year period. This new initiative would see that figure cut to zero.

The UK Automotive Lead at Deloitte, Michael Woodward, has claimed that, “for many businesses, there are operational, employee and environmental benefits in transitioning to EVs. However, the suitability of electric must make sense before making the switch. For some, EVs will already be a viable option given their fleet journey patterns, and next steps may simply be building a robust policy and plan to support wider EV adoption.”

It’s essential that any such increased demand for EVs, as a result of this tax initiative, can be supported with an EV infrastructure that is fit for purpose.

Utility Trade Group are exhibiting at the Connexus Annual Conference on Tuesday 15th October, and the transition to EV will be a key talking point over the course of the day. EV charging points are perfect if you’re looking to attract new customers to your location, improve your sustainability rating by earning BREEAM credits and helping to comply with ESOS. 

The benefits of the transition to EVs remain unparalleled, and we remain at the forefront of the industry when it comes to EV installation. If you’d like to discuss any requirements in this area, then visit us at the Connexus Annual Conference, or get in touch today.

We are delighted to be invited by Connexas, the market leader in connected vehicle technology solutions, to exhibit at their Fleet Summit to be held in Silverstone.

The Fleet Summit, held on 15th October, will focus on the future of transport – something that we have a keen interest in.

Connexas is a group of technology companies that provide industry leading connected vehicle technologies to commercial fleets worldwide. From vehicle telemetry, to tethered alcohol breathalysers and ePOD, they deliver a comprehensive fleet management solution to fleets of all sizes. 

There will be a number of discussions taking place – in particular, the key topic of ‘sustainability’, with an exciting look into the disruptive technological innovations that aim to help battle the future challenges set to affect our industry.

Visitors will be able to discover how the latest in EV technology and renewable fuels will be revolutionising the logistics industry from the exciting line-up of industry experts, network with the best of the industry’s suppliers, and attend the exclusive reveal of the upcoming products and solutions to the Connexas platforms.

As an accredited installer of EV solutions, this is a great opportunity for visitors to hear the benefits of commercial charging solutions, as well as to learn more about the evolution of EVs and how the Government are looking to impress them upon road users over the coming years.

We’ll be exhibiting on the day, which will give visitors an excellent chance to come and visit us to talk about transport and sustainability. EV charging points are perfect if you’re looking to attract new customers to your location, improve your sustainability rating by earning BREEAM credits and helping to comply with ESOS.

We are delighted to announce that we’ve been successful at the National Energy Efficiency Awards 2019.

Following on from our highly recommended achievement at the Regional Awards, we secured third place in the National Solar PV Project of the Year category, as well as a special commendation in the National Solar PV Installer & Contractor of the Year category.

Held at the NEC in Birmingham on Friday, the awards are amongst the most prestigious in the industry. We’re delighted to have achieved some recognition for our hard work and success over the last 12 months.

Our successes are a result of the impact our work has had – what our customers have said about us, and what level of expertise we have. 

When selecting a winner, judges considered the nature, scale and scope of the work carried out, and a special emphasis was placed on any successful integration of any National or Local Government Energy Efficiency schemes in the different projects.

Receiving recognition from industry peers is one of the highest accolades possible, so we’re elated to have capped off a fine evening at the NEC with this double success.

We’d like to extend our thanks to Gary and the team of organisers, for their fantastic work in hosting such a great event.

If we can help you with any aspect of your Solar PV installation, or to obtain a free survey – then get in touch with Utility Trade Group today.

Meet……….Millie Prince – Head of New Business & Partner Co-Ordinator.

Describe your job in three words.
Challenging, Busy & Satisfying 

How long have you been with the business, and what does your day-to-day role entail?3 years. Manage new business team and help them reach targets. Liaise with suppliers, problem solving and maintaining high levels of quality control. 

What do you enjoy most about working at Utility Trade Group?
The People. Satisfaction when my advice works. 

What have you learnt/what has changed about yourself since working at UTG?
I’m more direct and straight to the point. I’ve gained confidence in a leadership role and I’m more resilient. 

What are the values that drive you?
Hard work. Setting and achieving goals to meet milestones in life, such as going without luxuries to save to buy my first house. 

If you could switch positions with anyone famous in the world (living or dead) for one day, who would it be and why?
The present Queen. Wear her pyjamas and roam the castle, playing with her dogs. See what she really does. 

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Walking and playing with my dog. Treating my nieces and nephew.

 How would your family & friends describe you?
Sarcastic, funny, blunt but devoted. 

What’s your favourite food?
Macaroni Cheese 

If you had super hero powers for a day, what would it be and why?
Teleportation – so I can go wherever, whenever I like. 

When you were a kid, what did you want to do when you grew up?
A hamster. It’s a strange story – I was watching an episode of The Simpsons when Mr Burns had been given eye drops and his eyes became so big, he looked like a hamster and I thought, I want to look like that. 

What World Record would you be likely to break and why?
I make large messes appear smaller so my boyfriend will tackle them. 

What would you rather, and why: go without your phone, food or internet for a day?Phone – so I would be more productive and social. 

If you won the lottery, what is the first thing you would do?
Save all the rescue dogs. 

What would you most likely tell yourself at age 13?
Try harder at school and glasses are not embarrassing!

Between 20th and 22nd September, Utility Trade Group’s Managing Director, Edward Allen, along with three friends, will be completing Trailwalker.

The challenge is to walk, jog or run 100km across the South Downs Way, in under 30 hours in a team of four, and they hope to raise a minimum of £2,500. In a nutshell, it’s the ultimate team endurance event.

Starting at Queen Elizabeth Country Park early on Saturday morning, the Trailwalker route takes entrants along the stunning and historical South Downs Way, to the finish line at Brighton Racecourse.

The History of Trailwalker

Exercise Trailwalker started out as a military training exercise in Hong Kong in 1981. Organised by the Queen’s Gurkha Signals, and taking place along the famous Maclehose Trail, the exercise sought to test the endurance and teamwork of soldiers of the Queen’s Gurkha Signals over a long and arduous course.

In 1986, Trailwalker was opened to civilian participation for the first time, and now, following the move of the Queen’s Gurkha Signals to the UK, the 100k event takes place across the South Downs, with hundreds of civilians setting off alongside the Gurkhas.

Edward and his friends are completing the challenge for a fantastic cause, with all proceeds supporting Oxfam and The Gurkha Welfare Trust. If you’d like to donate, then please click here: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/jeremy-daniels1

We wish Edward the very best of luck!

The growth of solar energy has been vast, with an increased array of technology being added to homes and offices.

Individuals and businesses are veering towards ‘clean energy’, and are making a stand at the well-reported issue we currently face.

Solar energy is currently being created through three primary technologies:

• Photovoltaic (PV) – this process directly converts light to electricity.
• Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) – this uses heat from the sun, known as thermal energy, to drive electric turbines.
• Solar Heating and Cooling (SHC) systems – this process accumulates thermal energy to supply water, air conditioning and heating.

Far greater attention is now focused on individuals and businesses, to make a change in their use of energy. Solar energy is freely available and is a clean, renewable energy source – one of the reasons as to why more buildings are now going solar. The over-riding goal is to minimise the use of energy consumption through energy efficiency, and using alternative solar energy. 

In addition, your ROI is quicker than you may realise.

Technology plays a key role throughout the process: 

• Before the construction – creating a zero-energy building design.
• During the construction – using low energy building materials.
• Energy-efficient equipment – making the operational energy requirement low.

Integration with other applications – adding renewable energy technologies to various applications.

Solar energy has now been integrated into a large number of homes and offices. It is a welcomed development, as we continue to face the ongoing battles of global climate change, environmental consciousness, increasing energy consumption and adding renewable energy.

It isn’t just the tackling of the battles above, but there are other benefits too:

• Low environmental impact – solar technologies produce low environmental pollution.
• Limitless resource – creating renewable energy with never ending supply.
• Energy independence – helping to make buildings energy independent, with less pressure on natural sources of energy.
• Multipurpose – the energy can be used across multiple applications around the building.
• Portable – the energy can be easily transported.
• Additions – you can easily expand the PV systems.

We can help with all aspects of Solar PV installation; maintenance and we can provide you with various finance options.

So get in touch with us today to find out more.

By 2020, the number of EV’s on Britain’s roads is expected to top the 1 million mark.

The market grew by in excess of 19% in 2018, but there is work to be done – the 16,500 charging points available needs to be increased quickly, to account for such growth. Experts have indicated that a further 80,000 charging points will need to be installed through the course of 2019, in order to match the demand.

Statistics are showing us that electric vehicles are becoming ever more popular on Britain’s roads. Since the Government have set out their plans for a greener Britain, demand for such products has risen. Their initiatives have sought to increase the sales for electric vehicles, and they’ve declared that the sale of all new petrol and diesel vehicles will be banned by 2040. As such, the market for EV’s has become fiercely competitive.

EV charging points could have a substantial benefit to your business, with many of those advantages not being fully recognised or appreciated. Whether you’re looking to install workplace charging stations, or indeed destination ones – there are a number of positives that such an initiative could bring:

• Saving on vehicle costs and tax. Benefit in Kind tax is something that many employees are subjected to. However, with EV’s – this can be reduced by up to 86% for company vehicles. Furthermore, with an EV fleet, businesses can save over 6p per mile.
• Increased revenue through selling electricity. If an EV driver stops at one of your charging points, your business can charge for the electricity they use. You can also retain a profit on what the driver pays.
• Bringing new custom to your business. With an EV charging point based at your office, you’ll attract drivers of electric vehicles as they’ll need to charge their cars. The amount of time they spend with you is also likely to increase too, as it takes time to charge.

In addition to these (and other benefits), the OLEV (Office for Low Emission Vehicles) offers a Workplace Charging Scheme. This scheme is designed to help businesses with the upfront costs associated with installing a new workplace charging station.

In order to be eligible – you must have off-street parking, have a need to install a charger, and have it installed by an OLEVL approved workplace charger supplier. However, once approved – the grant can be used to reduce costs by up to 75%, with up to 20 charging stations able to be claimed on the scheme.

Utility Trade Group can help you to save (and generate) money with EV charging points today. Get in touch to find out more.

Far Infrared Heating uses cutting-edge technology to heat your building, at a far lower cost than conventional heating systems.

This clean heat technology also has proven health benefits, so whether you’re seeking an installation in a warehouse, office, retail outlet, school, or even a home, you can rest assured knowing that your staff or family are warmer and healthier, at just a fraction of the cost.

How Does it Work?

Far Infrared Heating is the process by which infrared rays are emitted from a heater, which then travels unimpeded through the air until it hits an object. This, in-turn, absorbs the radiation which causes molecules within it to vibrate – causing the object to produce heat.

Furthermore, you are heating solid walls or objects with infrared radiation, and these have a thermal mass. This means that they retain heat even better in comparison to conventional heating systems, where they emit heat into the air, which has no thermal mass.

The Benefits

Far Infrared Heaters are proven to be up to 60% more efficient than conventional heaters. Given the fact they’re far more efficient, this ensures that they’re cost-effective too.

Furthermore, Utility Trade Group offer custom panels that suit your style and your taste. We can ensure that we’re adding an element of personalisation to your property – be it a home or an office – and this can take the form of a personalised picture, a customised design, or even a mirror.

Our Far Infrared Heaters don’t just look great, but they’re future-proofed too. You can adjust your heating on the move with online controls, or from your mobile phone, meaning that you’re only using the energy that you absolutely need to.

Our Far Infrared Heaters support all of the Government’s ESOS regulations. As such, they emit less Co2 and are far more environmentally friendly than a conventional heating system. With proven added health benefits too – they really do tick all of the boxes.

If you feel that Far Infrared heating could benefit your building, then get in touch with Utility Trade Group today to see how we can help you to reduce your heating costs.

We are delighted to announce that we’ve been shortlisted for four awards the National Energy Efficiency Awards 2019. Following on from our highly recommended achievement at the Regional Awards.

The aim of the Energy Efficiency Awards is to provide public recognition for the excellent work the Energy Efficiency sector is doing in implementing various energy efficiency schemes.

The judges have shortlisted us in the following four categories:

• National Multi-Measure Project of the Year
• National Solar PV Project of the Year
• National Solar PV Installer and Contractor of the Year
• National Energy Consultant/Consultancy of the Year

When selecting a winner, judges will consider the nature, scale and scope of the work carried out, and a special emphasis will be placed on any successful integration of any National or Local Government Energy Efficiency schemes in the different projects.

Our nominations are a result of the impact our work has had – what our customers have said about us, and what level of expertise we have.

Held at the NEC in Birmingham, on 27th September, the awards are amongst the most prestigious in the industry. We’re delighted to have achieved some recognition for our hard work and success over the last 12 months.

Get in touch today to see how we can help you to implement a wide range of energy efficiency solutions and schemes, helping your business to save money.

The Smart Export Guarantee ‘’SEG’’ is a new mechanism that is being used to pay people who are generating renewable energy. This includes technologies such as Solar PV, Domestic Wind Turbines, Hydro, Anaerobic Digestion and Micro Combined Heat and Power. This initiative will come into force from January 1st 2020.

It is being introduced by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), following the government’s recognition that they need to pay small-scale renewable energy suppliers for the electricity they are exporting to the grid.

As a result of this scheme, it means all licensed energy suppliers with 150,000 or more customers will now need to provide at least one Smart Export Guarantee tariff. They can also choose to offer other means of making payments for this exported electricity, which is separate to the current SEG arrangements. 

How much can be made through exporting electricity to the SEG?

There are no set or minimum amounts for this, but all tariffs must be greater than zero at all times. This means that it comes down to the energy suppliers to decide on the amounts to offer to their customers. This is likely to be actioned through a fixed rate per kWh of electricity exported.

You can also combine SEG with other grants and financial support. However, you cannot receive payments for both a Feed-In Tariff and SEG, so you would need to decide on one or the other. You would also not be able to receive SEG from more than one supplier.

Which renewable energy installations are eligible for SEG?

·      Solar PV systems, onshore wind, anaerobic digestion and hydro are eligible and up to 5MW

·      Micro-combined heat and power are also eligible and have an electrical capacity of up to 50kW

SEG and energy storage?

Some Wind Turbine or Solar PV Installations will have energy storage systems attached to them. If this is the case, then the battery could also store electricity imported from the grid, which is better known as ‘brown electricity’. This can then be exported at a later date. 

Utility Trade Group are experts in energy efficiency, so get in touch today to find out how we can help.

With the National Energy Efficiency Awards 2019 fast approaching, we are delighted to announce that we have agreed to sponsor the National Renewable Heat Installer and Contractor of the Year Award.

Judges will consider the nature, scale and scope of the work carried out, and a special emphasis will be placed on any successful integration of RHI or any Local or National Government Energy Efficiency schemes in the nominee’s projects. Furthermore, the judges will also look at:

·      The impact their work has had within the local community.

·      What their customers and local community have to say about them.

·      What level of expertise the nominee has.

We are delighted to sponsor such a prestigious award at the industry’s leading awards event. The awards provide public recognition for the excellent work that the Energy Efficiency sector is doing in implementing various energy efficiency schemes. It is something that Utility Trade Group are delighted to be a part of.

We look forward to seeing you on Friday 27th September.

Here at Utility Trade Group, we decided to make the switch from our old, standard lighting, to LED lighting.

Did you know that, on average, a British business will spend approximately 30% of their annual power bill on lighting?

LED Lighting is far more efficient than traditional lighting sources, producing more light with a greatly reduced power input. In addition to this, using a grant from Green BELLE, we are able to offset 100% of our LED Lighting assets against our taxable profits in the first year. Not only does this move enable us to generate an excellent ROI in just 3-12 months, but their also ecologically-sound and last far, far longer than incandescent or halogen lamps.

We went from 17 80w fluorescent lamps in the main office to 40w 600×600 LED panels – an indicative reduction of 68%. Furthermore, we also went from 8 twin 60w batons to 8 twin 30w batons – a 50% reduction. All-in-all, this has led to a reduction in total power usage from 7300kwh to just 2,500kwh – a 66% decrease.

We’re very proud to be installing some of the initiatives that we’re supplying to our customers, and this LED Lighting initiative is that we continue to ‘practice what we preach’ when it comes to energy saving solutions.

Utility Trade Group can help you to replace all of the bulbs in your business with LED Lighting. They offer great design-flexibility, so we’re certain we have a solution that is right for you and your business. Recently, we actually saved one business circa £11,635 in 2018 – thus allowing the company to invest in other areas of the business.

We can help you do similar, by arranging for a lighting survey to be undertaken for your business. This will help you to decide on the best configuration of lights, in order to maximise efficiency and your annual savings. Get in touch with Utility Trade Group today to find out more.

‘Businesses that fail to adapt to climate change will without question go bankrupt.’ This is the chilling warning that came from Bank of England Governor, Mark Carney.

It gives a firm warning as to the rising issue of climate change, and puts his commercial spin on why everyone, including businesses, must now act on this epidemic.

Whilst a failure to act could see businesses become insolvent, he also claimed there will be ‘great fortunes’ made through this process along the way, for those who embrace it and support it.

This comes as a greater degree of importance is being attributed to tackling climate change as businesses look to make an impact. He also added, when speaking recently, that ‘capitalism is very much part of the solution to tackling the climate crisis, and part of what we need to do’.

This could help to ensure that businesses comply with restrictions, for example – many signing up to the recent 1.5°C climate goal.

Carney also added that, ‘the costs of ignoring climate change were rising’ but insisted the opportunities of ‘doing something about it’ were also increasing. Also, adding money would shift in this direction.

It is clear that change has started, and there is now £99 trillion of capital behind the framework that’s pushing companies into managing these rising risks. The system needs to be the solution with managing the risks around climate change. This involves adjusting from where it is today, to where it needs to be tomorrow.

“Companies that don’t adapt, including companies in the financial system, will go bankrupt, without question. But also, there will be great fortunes made along this path aligned with what society wants”. This is a statement from the Economist.  They also added that ‘it was a mistake to believe the use of fossil fuels will not be significantly reduced’. This is little surprise as technology continues to evolve and more and more is being done in the battle against climate change.

Utility Trade Group are proud to help businesses in their quest to support the climate change initiative. We can work with you during the transition phase, advising you accordingly throughout your energy efficiency journey. Get in touch today, to find out more.

More and more businesses are now looking to make a difference in the battle against climate change. A large number have dedicated their support to the cause, with 20 multinational businesses now committed to the 1.5°C climate goal.

These firms, that are worth more than £1.37 trillion combined, have made the pledge through the science-based targets initiative – to limit global temperature increases to 1.5°C.

However, you don’t need to be a multinational business to make a difference.

Everyone can start to help – from individuals through to smaller businesses too. 

There was a call to action ahead of the UN Climate Action summit, that is set to take place later this year, leading to the pledge from firms to make a change.

The companies in question include the likes of AstraZeneca, Vodafone, Unilever and Zurich Insurance.

Their aim is to stop global temperatures from rising by more than 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels and to work towards reaching net-zero emissions by no later than 2050.

There are also several companies who already have reduction targets in place, dictating how they must reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.

These include the likes of BT, SAP and Levi Strauss & Co.

This call for change all comes from the recent report set out by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). They warned that if global warming exceeded a further 1.5°C, there could be some disastrous consequences.

These targets have also been put in place in order to push companies to invest in zero-carbon technologies in order to change their current business models. 

Climate change has never been more important than it is right now. This is why so many more companies are now looking to tackle the ever-growing problem. Many leading companies across the world have already proved that they can be compliant with the current climate change targets, thus showing that companies of all sizes can also make this change now, and contribute to the achievement of the sustainable development goals.

Utility Trade Group are committed to sustainable development and the battle against climate change.

We can help you or your business to join this campaign – just get in touch today to find out how.

This week, we’d like to introduce you to our Managing Director, Edward Allen.

Describe your job in three words.
Exciting, Inspiring & Ever-evolving 

How long has the business traded, and what does your day-to-day role entail?10 years.Ensuring everyone is ok and clear on their objectives.Allowing me time to focus on ways to keep the business moving forward. 

What do you enjoy most about being a director of Utility Trade Group?
Mentoring and coaching our employees through harnessing and improving their skills.Sharing awareness & supporting our clients to become more energy efficient savvy. 

What have you learnt/what has changed about yourself since working at UTG?
Better engagement and communication with staff and clients.Keeping a positive outlook.Not setting limitations to desired achievements. 

What are the values that drive you?
Integrity. Respect. Honesty & Teamwork

If you could switch positions with anyone famous in the world (living or dead) for one day, who would it be and why?
When I was growing up I wanted to be like David Beckham.Now I realise how sportsmanship and business skills balance with each other, I would say Eddie Jordan. 

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Taking time to unwind with friends and family. 

How would your family & friends describe you?
Loyal, trustworthy and funny.Up for anything! 

What’s your favourite food?
Surf n Turf 

If you had superhero powers for a day, what would it be and why?
Freezing Time – because you never get it back! 

When you were a kid, what did you want to do when you grew up?
Footballer 

What World Record would you be likely to break and why?
The volume of worst one liners said in a day! 

What would you rather, and why: go without your phone, food or internet for a day? Internet, nothing is ever lost so you can catch up the next day. 

If you won the lottery, what is the first thing you would do?
Plan to make everyone close to me financially better off. 

What would you most likely tell yourself at age 13?
Find inner confidence. For me personally, don’t let dyslexia stop me from achieving my goals and dreams.

London mayor Sadiq Khan has announced that the City is set for a major electric vehicle (EV) network expansion and the first charging hub will be in operation by the end of 2019.

The capital city has long been known for its continued pollution issues, so this a positive step in battling this so-called epidemic. The aim is to tackle the twin dangers of London’s toxic air crisis and the climate change emergency, whilst also bringing together representatives from energy, business, infrastructure, government and all of the London Boroughs.

London already hosts a significant chunk of the UK’s EV charging points at 25%, with 2,400 public chargers spread across 1,200 different locations.

The capital also has Europe’s largest electric bus fleet, but far more needs to be done in moving the public to low carbon and zero emission forms of transport. London already has more than 20,000 electric cars and a further 1,700 electric taxis.

So, what will change with the EV network expansion in London?

Sadiq Khan has set out plans for five large charging hubs to be installed, which will ensure multiple cars can be charged at the same time, and quickly. These should be kick starting and in operation by the end of 2019.

These next generation, fast charging points will be used and in place at London petrol stations, further adding to the attraction of the EV market. The key is to add these smart tools into areas of high demand, which should bode well and be seen as a significant step.

The Mayor also stated that, “we must make sure all Londoners have access to the essential infrastructure required to run and maintain an EV. This is a massive operation and can only be achieved if the public and private sector come together to deliver London’s electric future.”

Whilst the attention on the above is focused on the London area, there is a definite need for change in the country as a whole – not just in the capital city.

Utility Trade Group can help you with your EV solution. There are a huge number of benefits associated with such a move, including charging your EV for as little as 2p per mile, based on the average overnight electricity rate of 15p per kWh. There are also a number of other benefits that can be found here.

Get in touch today to see how Utility Trade Group can help.

A new study has shown that seven in ten Britons want urgent action in tackling climate change.

This has now become a mainstream issue following the continued attention on the epidemic. It has also continued to be a popular topic of choice from candidates in the race to become the next Prime Minister and leader of the Conservative party. This is essential, as they are becoming ever more aware that more and more Britain’s are insisting on climate change being a core policy at number 10.

Climate change is based on the planet’s climate, which has been constantly changing over time. The average global temperate is around 15C, and evidence has shown this to be both higher and lower in the past. The issue at present is that the warming is occurring more rapidly than in the past. Scientists are far more concerned that the natural fluctuation is now being overtaken by a rapid human induced warming, which could have serious implications for the stability of the planet’s future climate.

Much has been spoken about climate change being the number one challenge of our generation. Sir David Attenborough has played a key role in promoting this message to the wider audience during his Blue Planet series. These documentaries were hugely popular with Blue Planet II becoming the most watched television show of 2017. In the last episode of the series, he issues a warning to viewers of just how plastic pollution and climate change are damaging all ocean habitats and why action needs to be taken now.

Scientific evidence has shown that the climate is changing because of greenhouse gases resulting from human activity. These emissions come from the demand for energy, with the largest coming through carbon dioxide.

The UK has already began making changes in order to tackle this. The Climate Change Act (2008) made the UK the first country to establish a long term legally binding framework in order to cut carbon emissions. The aim is to have reduced these by 80% by 2050, which shows the huge task at hand in order to reach this target. This means that investment and development in these low carbon technologies will put the UK at the forefront of new and expanding global markets.

Utility Trade Group can help you with energy efficiency solutions. To see how we can help in these areas, take a look here.

You may remember that back in February, we changed our name to Utility Trade Group. The group was created to merge both companies and provide clarity of our value proposition. To reflect the name change and the investment in our organisation, we’re also delighted to announce that we have a new website. It’s on the same URL as before, but we’ve given it a fresh look and feel to reflect our new brand.

To keep it simple, we’ve broken the site down into two core areas – Energy Efficiency and Procurement. These are our two core service offerings, and you can read about them in greater detail by clicking the relevant links.

The site has a clean, crisp look and is indicative of the way that Utility Trade Group operates. With regards to the group restructure and the new site – Managing Director, Edward Allen, says, “These are very exciting times for Utility Trade Group and our clients. We’ve seen a significant increase in companies wanting to take control of their energy demand and cost. In an uncertain market, including concern around post Brexit, energy prices are volatile. Our experts work with companies to help deliver solutions to control usage, cost and reduction of carbon footprint”

If you’re interested in finding out about our Energy Efficiency solutions, including Solar Energy, LED Lighting, Far Infrared Heating, EV Charging and many more – then look no further than the brand-new dedicated area on site. Our energy efficient solutions can improve operational performance for our clients, strengthen resilience and drive your business vision forward.

Likewise, on the Procurement side – we’ve got a dedicated area covering our Energy Procurement, Waste Management & Water Audits too. Our buying power in the market, along with our specialised managed service, provides you with clearer visibility of your consumption, unlocking greater control of your energy costs, increasing your profits.

Furthermore, we’ve also revised our logo to bring it more in-line with our enhanced offerings. Whilst the change in design is only minor, what it reflects is far greater.

We’d love to hear your thoughts on the new site, so please get in touch with any feedback. Furthermore, if Utility Trade Group can help you with any of your Energy Efficiency or Procurement needs, then please get in touch today.

his week, we’d like to introduce you to our colleague, Will Woodhouse.

Describe your job in three words
Interesting, team are affable, a good culture

How long have you been with the business, and what does your day-to-day role entail?
1 year. Contacting clients to discuss our managed services, maintaining portfolio of data and target driven.

What do you enjoy most about working at Utility Trade Group?
Banter and friendliness of my colleagues and clients

What have you learnt/what has changed about yourself since working at UTG?
More confidence in conversations over the phone and face to face

What are the values that drive you?
Pride – knowing I’ve always tried my best. Respect & Resilience

If you could switch positions with anyone famous in the world (living or dead) for one day, who would it be and why?
Martin Luther King: To have been so selfless and make such a monumental change to a nation and the world. It’s a legacy that lives on.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Play football, fitness and spending time with family.

How would your family & friends describe you?
Determined, buoyant, annoying and untidy!

What’s your favourite food?
Surf n Turf

If you had super hero powers for a day, what would it be and why?
Time Travel: Change history for the better if I could. Experience key events that have shaped our society today.

When you were a kid, what did you want to do when you grew up?
Professional footballer for Chelsea & England

What would you rather, and why: go without your phone, food or internet for a day?
Internet: Can still use phone to contact people. I could never go without food!

If you won the lottery, what is the first thing you would do?
Post it on Facebook!

What would you most likely tell yourself at age 13?
Carry on having a positive attitude to life.