As a leading energy efficiency consultant, here at Utility Trade Group, we strive to do all we can in the battle against the climate emergency. The supply and implementation of renewable energy resources, accompanied with a strong will and desire to face the issue at hand are our core fundamentals in this battle – but Government regulation is also at the forefront of change too.

The Government describes the regulation as “simple, risk based, and proportionate.” In the last decade alone, the Environment Agency alone have seen less waste going to landfill, a decline in the emissions from industry, and a 70% recycle rate from the sites that sit within their jurisdiction.

Offenders and non-compliers are being targeted more heavily, with longer custodial sentences and bigger fines being handed down – the Government are ramping up the fight against those who continue to commit so-called environmental crime. As Britain prepares to leave the EU at the end of January, the regulations won’t become laxer – in fact, they’re likely to become tougher than ever.

The theory of marginal gains is more relevant than ever – if everybody does their bit, the world will become a better place. That said, we don’t want to aim for a planet that is marginally better overall, more so one that is considerably better than it has ever been before.

Emission regulation and reducing carbon is at the heart of the over-riding objective, with the net-zero goal by 2030 at the forefront of the desire for change. Industries and businesses that are committed to green technology are being supported more than ever, and Utility Trade Group are expert s in this field – we’ve achieved a level of excellence. If we can help you with any aspects of making your business greener, including grant applications or the installation of renewable energy resources, then please get in touch today.

In an effort to support Cambridgeshire County Council’s pledge to become carbon neutral, Utility Trade Group were supporting Bouygues E&S FM UK, in the design and installation of multiple solutions to schools, including Alderman Jacob Primary School.

Due to our established credibility for delivering installs of innovative, sustainable and impact investment products, we were able to offer invaluable advice at the very beginning of this project. A considerable amount of time was given to the design and collective cost and ROI of the multi solution.

The results were exceptional:

Solar PV

• 100% of generated energy is estimated to be consumed on site.

LED Lighting

• Estimated to reduce lighting demand by 60%

Heating Control

• Heating controls implemented on all heating services to improve heating controls and reduce wastage, thus lowering Co2 emissions.

This all resulted in a collective estimated saving of 10 tonnes per annum of Co2, 27,000kw per annum of power, and over 2,600 trees saved per annum.

Post installation, we carried out a commissioning and handover with the client and facilities manager. At that point, we discussed any training requirements with regards to systems and controls. The Solar PV was then added to an online monitoring platform, to ensure targeted generation and will alert on any failures or trips in the systems. It provides live statistics.

Both Utility Trade Group and the client have access to the online dashboard. We send out monthly reports, and if at any point the panels are not operating at 100%, we are able to identify which panel, and then one of our maintenance team would then be deployed to rectify the issue.

Our work received a glowing review from a Bouygues E&S FM UK representative, who said:

“We have successfully completed PV installations at fifteen schools under RE:FIT 3, with a combined capacity of over 250kW.

This is in addition to installations at seven Cambridge City sites and one for South Cambs DC over the same period, bringing the total to just over 500kW.

Combined, this will generate over 8GWh of renewable electricity over the Feed In Tariff term, circa £2M of revenue and around 2,500TCO2 savings.

I’d like to extend my gratitude to Utility Trade for all their hard work and dedication to meet the demanding timeline, their commitment to maintaining the highest standard of health & safety and consistent quality throughout. I’d also like to thank the wider team for working so hard to make it happen. It’s been far from easy for all parties involved but this achievement is worth celebrating. Well done!”

UT Power have a proven track record, specialising in the following areas:

• Project management
• Client welfare
• Full turn-key approach to energy efficiency – from design, install, commission, and maintenance.

In addition to specialising in Solar PV, Heating Controls and LED Lighting – we are accredited for EV installation, Far Infrared Heating installation and Battery Storage. So, if we can help with any aspects of your energy efficiency, then please get in touch today.

In the last year alone, Utility Trade Group completed 75 Solar PV installations – 90% of which were for commercial properties, and 10% for domestic. Those installations generated a staggering 900,000kw of power, reducing carbon footprint and ensuring that we are taking strides in the campaign against climate change.

Our working relationship with local authorities such as Leicestershire County Council, has provided us with the opportunity to educate our clients, staff and partners on the positive environmental impact, in addition to the economic benefits of our work. One example is the consultation, design and installation work we did with Leicestershire County Council to unlock sustainable income to pay for local projects, such as providing further education for adults.

Danemill Primary School Annexe has just been refurbished and will reopen as an adult learning centre. As part of the refurbishment and continued commitment from Leicestershire County Council to make their property portfolio more sustainable, the buildings now have a 25kW solar array. The system comprises of 93,275W Jinko SolarEdge optimised PV modules, and is forecast to generate 22,500kWh and avoid 10 tonnes of CO2 emissions in year one.

In September, we achieved industry recognition for the work we’ve done in the Solar PV category. Not only did we secure third place in the National Solar PV Project of the Year category (which we wrote about last week), but we also received a special commendation in the National Solar PV Installer & Contractor of the Year Category.

Our double success in the Solar PV category further highlights our expertise in this area, and is just reward for the hard work and dedication, in the pursuit of success for our clients. Receiving recognition from industry peers, in such a prestigious award category, is one of the highest accolades possible.

A representative from Leicestershire County Council spoke very highly of our work:

“Utility Trade have been an excellent contractor to work with throughout the installation of solar panels at Vulcan Court. The installation was a complex project with a tight deadline, and Utility Trade delivered both on time and on budget”.

“We would highly recommend UT Power for Project Managing, and the installation of Renewable Technologies. We have had a large number of installations completed by UT Power, and all have been managed professionally, delivered before programme and with minimal disruption. We have achieved a very high overall customer satisfaction, from Building Managers through to the end user”

This is a glowing endorsement, and further consolidates our position as one of the Solar PV industry leaders. Our proven track record in this area is something we’re extremely proud of, so if we can help you with any aspects of your Solar PV project, then please get in touch today.

We recently announced that we secured third place in the National Solar PV Project of the Year category, at the National Energy Efficiency Awards 2019.

Receiving recognition from industry peers, in such a prestigious award category, is one of the highest accolades possible – so we thought it would be good to share some of the details of why we saw such great success in this area.

This particular project related to the University of London, and the installation of multiple solutions was across a number of university buildings, including Senate House and International Hall.

In an effort to support University of London’s carbon footprint target, Utility Trade Group were supporting Bouygues E&S FM UK in the design and installation of multiple Solar PV solutions. Due to the upcoming expiry of the Feed in Tariff, it was essential that we were able to complete both installations within strict time constraints, so as to ensure maximised ROI and energy savings. Both are historical buildings which required specialist planning.

Although they are located in the centre of London, University of London had a big ambition to reduce Co2 emissions in the capital. Given the nature of the building’s designs, we were very innovative with the design, so as to ensure maximum output on kw. Health and Safety was a massive factor in this project, resulting in road closures, as well as the obtaining of specialist crane lifting systems. We were also able to overcome the issue of complicated cable runs, whilst ensuring the safety of staff, public and workers.

The success of this project was heavily reliant on delivering this solution on a unique building, which had restricted access. It was seen as a flagship for other complex projects in Central London, meeting the government’s ambition for the capital to reduce its CO2 emissions.

The results of the project were exceptional. As a result, Utility Trade Group were able to save an estimated:

·       88,000kw of non-renewable energy per annum

·       39.5 tonnes of Co2 per annum

·       1,975 trees per annum

A representative of Bouygues E&S, gave some fantastic feedback:

“I have also had some really positive feedback from the client at the University of London on how safety conscious they are and how well they are working at University Hall which they are hoping to complete this week”

“I think it is important to report within the business on good contractors.

“I am looking forward to completing the Senate House project with them by the end of the month.”

Utility Trade Group have a proven track record in Solar PV installation, and this is just one of many success stories in this area. If we can help you with any aspects of your Solar PV project, then please get in touch today.

As part of our monthly introduction to a different team member here at Utility Trade Group, this month we’d like to introduce you our Sales Team Manager, Tahir Sheikh.

Describe your job in three words? Challenging, Fun & Rewarding  How long have you been with the business, and what does your day-to-day role entail? 7 years. Manage sales team to achieve targets, provide reporting to directors. Manage my own base of clients.  

What do you enjoy most about working at Utility Trade Group?  Working with the people. It’s a great culture, good and honest.  

What have you learnt/what has changed about yourself since working at UTG?  I’ve become more confident. I enjoy speaking to anyone plus developing my managerial skills, creating a more structured environment.  

What are the values that drive you?  Honesty, Family & Trust  

If you could switch positions with anyone famous in the world (living or dead) for one day, who would it be and why? Mohammed Ali, he not only changed the face of boxing but he fought for his rights and beliefs. A true inspiration.  

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?  Anything to do with football. I coach under 9’s (Leicester Nirvana FC) and play too when I can. Spending quality time with my family.  

How would your family & friends describe you?  The family patriarch, always the go to for help and advice. Funny.  

What’s your favourite food?  Grilled food – especially fillet steak.  

If you had super hero powers for a day, what would it be and why?  Telepathy – so I can read people’s real thoughts and emotions before I respond.  

When you were a kid, what did you want to do when you grew up?  I wanted to be a pharmacist.  

What World Record would you be likely to break and why?  Most consecutive days eating chips. 

What would you rather, and why: go without your phone, food or internet for a day?  Phone – I’m trying to stop spending as much time on the phone and encourage my family to do so, to be more sociable.  

If you won the lottery, what is the first thing you would do?  Give at least 50% to charity.  

What would you most likely tell yourself at age 13?  Don’t quit! 

The vote was made back in June of 2016, that the UK would be leaving the European Union. However, over three years down the line and we have yet to see an exit, despite the date being set for the 29th March earlier this year. In fact, the EU have recently granted another extension until early 2020.

This uncertainty has led to fluctuations across an array of markets, and this includes energy – something which we touched upon in a blog post back in February.

The energy market has been marked with a major red flag, which is little surprise, following a large drop in the pound, the slowing of the UK economy, and several major businesses looking at leaving the UK, following the vote. Last year saw two significant rises in energy prices, which were attributed to the ever rising costs of wholesale gas and electricity. Household energy bills are only set to rise further this year, as the continued uncertainty of the situation escalates. Britain remaining in Europe’s carbon trading scheme, the EU Emission Trading System (EU ETS) after Brexit, also remains a key uncertainty.

The term ‘deal or no deal’ becomes ever more prevalent, as the UK is still no closer to finding out what the general direction may be. If the UK were to leave without a deal in January 2020, then they will be committed to the WTO trading legislation. This would likely lead to a rise in energy bills, as trade barriers would  increase the cost of gas and electricity passing the border. At present there is free movement of these services, which is why it is cheaper, and no additional tariffs have been passed down to energy bills.

These could be increased however, as the fear of increased transportation costs heightens. Power companies and lead industry bodies are becoming ever more fearful of such an outcome, urging politicians to strike a relevant deal to prevent these tariff barriers coming to fruition

So, just what can be done to tackle the potential rise in energy prices?

The most positive move to make is to ensure you are signed up to a fixed-rate deal ASAP, so as to avoid the uncertainty that Britain’s EU departure in January brings. Here at Utility Trade Group, we are experts in energy management. 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.

Get in touch today to see how we can help your business, amid the uncertainty of Brexit.

Following on from our previous blog posts about various aspects of energy efficiency, this week we look at the UK achieving a net-zero carbon emissions figure.

Net-zero refers to the balancing of emissions in that, after greenhouse gas reduction measures have been taken, any remaining emissions are removed or offset.

The UK Government has set a target of net-zero carbon emissions, raising the previous target of an 80% reduction. This has now been written into UK law, and the way that we use energy will need to significantly changed, in order to adhere to this new policy. It is expected that an amalgamation of new technologies will be required support this decarbonisation process.

As you know, at Utility Trade Group, we are experts in energy efficiency. Our energy efficient solutions can improve operational performance for clients, strengthen resilience and drive their business vision forward.

Operational excellence and cost management are a key focus for any business, and energy is a significant factor in both, yet it is often misunderstood and not managed successfully.

In order to achieve net-zero, it’s imperative that more is done to reduce heat and transport emissions. Electrification, heat pumps, electric vehicles, hydrogen, biogas and energy efficiency measures will all form key cogs in the wheel to success on this front. 

There are three core aspects that business owners will likely turn to, in order to support this process:

Transport

There are already separate targets in place for EVs in the UK, with them likely to be the core means of eliminating emissions from commercial delivery vehicles. To support uptake of EVs in the UK, it was announced recently that drivers will be able to use a public charger without having signed up to the specific provider’s scheme. Utility Trade Group are suppliers and installers of EV charging points. 

Heat

There are a range of technical solutions to decarbonise heat that can be adopted in different locations and for varying purposes across the UK. These include replacing natural gas with hydrogen, either completely, or in-part.

Carbon Capture & Storage (CSS)

“CSS is a necessity, not an option”, claim the Committee on Climate Change (CCC) – it is required for industry, bioenergy, and for hydrogen and electricity production. A net-zero carbon cluster at Drax, which would include the world’s first carbon negative power station, is currently at the exploratory stage.

Whilst business energy users will see their carbon footprint fall automatically, as low carbon electricity becomes more abundant, much more will need to be done to reduce heat and transport emissions. The renewable energy measures aforementioned will need to be combined to achieve the goal – with business looking to work out and optimise the best amalgamation of technologies to suit their business. This is where we can help, with our energy efficiency consultation and solutions.

Energy efficiency is no longer a fringe exercise with expensive upfront costs and limited outcomes. It is a mainstream option that is more accessible and feasible than ever before.

Utility Trade Group are experts in energy efficiency, including all of the above solutions. We can offer finance solutions to make investment costs more manageable, and to ensure that our solutions are helping your business to save money in the long-run. Get in touch today, to see how we can help you to combine your energy efficiency solutions and achieve the net-zero goal by 2050.

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.