The end of Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) meters in Great Britain is swiftly approaching, as the technology that supports RTS will be turned off on 30th June 2025. RTS meters rely on a specific radio frequency to work – without this technology, they will stop functioning properly and will no longer be fit for purpose. 

Lead times to upgrade your RTS meter can sometimes be longer than expected, so it’s important that you begin the process of upgrading your meter as soon as possible, to avoid being caught out and causing potential impacts to your electricity bill. Here, we explain everything you need to consider, from how to identify an RTS meter, what this change could mean for your business, and the benefits that come with upgrading to a smart meter. 

How can you tell if your meter uses RTS?

You might have an RTS meter if you heat your business premises using electricity, if you have electric storage and water heaters, or if the price of your electricity varies by the time of day. If you’re not sure whether you have an RTS meter, there is a way that you can check. On an RTS meter, there should be a ‘Radio Teleswitch Service’ label on either your meter or a separate black box next to your meter. 

You can learn more and find examples of this on the Citizens Advice website, here, or contact your electricity supplier to confirm. 

What does this change mean for your business?

If you have an RTS meter, choosing not to upgrade to a smart meter doesn’t only mean that you will be unable to use your meter – it can also have the following implications:   

  • Your heating and hot water may be left continuously on or off.   
  • Your electric storage heaters may charge at the wrong time of day.  
  • Your supplier may be unable confirm your electricity usage during peak or off-peak times.   
  • You may also have a more limited choice of electricity supply contracts.  

All of these factors could lead to significantly higher bills. 

Smart meters

If your business has an RTS meter, you will need to upgrade to a smart meter to avoid these impacts – typically, this will be an Automated Meter Reading (AMR) meter, or if required, a second-generation smart meter (SMETS2). Through automated meter reads, smart meters avoid the need to manually submit meter reads. This also provides more accurate bills, ensuring that you only pay for electricity you use. 

That’s why, here at Bryt Energy, we’re on a mission to get all eligible customers switched on to smart meters. 

Next steps

It may take longer to upgrade your RTS meter than you think, so it’s crucial that you start the process of upgrading your meter as soon as possible, to avoid any negative implications and start enjoying the benefits of a smart meter. 

If you would like our assistance in making the switch, please get in touch us at heretohelp@brytenergy.co.uk to discuss upgrading your meter. We will also be glad to provide you with further information or arrange an appointment with you to talk through specific details for your business.   

Similarly, if you would like to learn more, you can visit the FAQs page on our website. 

A changing energy landscape

As the UK transitions towards net zero, the way businesses use energy is changing. As we remove our dependency on fossil fuels across heating, transport, and energy use in buildings and industry, over time we will see more businesses adopt low-carbon technology to support with their decarbonisation efforts.

This includes on-site solar PV – a key technology in the net zero energy transition. However, the implementation of on-site solar will trigger a change in businesses’ overall electricity demand, as well as the characteristics of their consumption pattern, and businesses need to consider what this means for their electricity strategy.

Changing electricity profiles

For as long as the sun keeps shining, solar power produces zero emissions and is 100% renewable at the point of generation – making it an essential form of renewable energy generation.

However, when a business installs low-carbon technologies such as on-site solar, they will start to see changes in their electricity profile. For example, they may see a dip in their consumption from the grid in the middle of a sunny day, with on-site solar PV generating their electricity instead.

As well as on-site solar PV, other low-carbon technologies may also affect electricity profiles. For example, businesses might see their electricity consumption levels increase overall, after electrifying their heating system, and increased overnight consumption after electrifying their vehicles and charging their fleet of EVs, ready for the next day.

With the uptake of solar PV and other low-carbon technologies, a business might consume electricity at different quantities and times than previously forecasted. And as businesses across the country adopt this approach, we’ll see changes to the energy system at a national level.

How does on-site solar PV affect electricity prices on a national level?

As solar energy is at its peak between 12-3pm, the uptake of solar PV has meant that the UK has experienced more periods of high electricity generation in the middle of the day, causing usage patterns to change and prices to decrease within this period.

In fact, the UK is already seeing more frequent negative half-hourly electricity prices, which happens when the combination of high renewable generation and low electricity demand from the grid leads to periods where prices fall below zero, with users essentially being paid to consume electricity. The cause of these negative pricing periods can sometimes be challenging to understand or predict, with unknown amounts of solar being generated.

How does on-site solar PV affect electricity prices on a business level?

As well as this impact on a national level, on-site solar generation will also affect businesses and suppliers individually. If a business does not make their electricity supplier aware of any changes in their technology suite, this may result in their supplier having to sell back additional electricity during periods of underconsumption (such as when the business is using electricity from their solar PV) at potentially lower prices, and/or buying more electricity at periods of overconsumption, exposing suppliers and businesses to unpredictable market prices.

Although less electricity is taken from the grid through the use of solar PV panels, the unpredictability of solar generation means that your rates for your remaining electricity may be slightly higher, to reflect this risk to the supplier. Therefore, businesses have two choices. They can either pay to mitigate this risk, using a fixed contract, where available, in which their supplier takes on that market exposure of any differences between their forecasted electricity usage and what they actually consume, or they can proactively manage their electricity usage with a more flexible contract, and use their solar PV in tandem with other low-carbon technologies.

Using solar with low-carbon technologies

To get the most out of the electricity provided by your business’s on-site solar PV, it’s important that you don’t think about this technology in isolation. Using solar PV in tandem with other low-carbon technology to complement each other could help you use your electricity more efficiently, avoid more expensive peak periods, and save money.

Peak solar times do not always coincide with when you most need energy. Battery storage technologies can be used to store unused solar energy in times of high generation (such as in the middle of the day), which would otherwise go straight to the grid, to be instead used in times of typically high demand and peak prices (such as between 4pm-7pm, particularly on weekdays). This not only helps you make full use of your electricity when you need it, but could also help smooth out the impact of solar PV on the grid.

In the same manner, solar PV could also be coupled with electric vehicle (EV) chargers for your business’s fleets, as well as heat pumps. By powering these low-carbon technologies with solar PV, you can store your energy when not needed, and draw from it at times when both demand and prices are high, to avoid costly peak charges.

What should businesses do?

Communication is key in the transition to net zero. With an electricity supply contract, suppliers will typically assume that you will follow a traditional consumption pattern, using the same amount of electricity, in the same way as you have over the last 12 months, unless told otherwise. However, if your business is planning to make any changes, such as installing solar PV on-site, there’s going to be a difference between your forecasted electricity usage and actual consumption in the future.

So, it’s important to speak with your electricity supplier and let them know of your plans, so they can proactively build these changes into a contract that is best for you and helps reduce unexpected charges. Before quoting our customers, we ask them questions about their low-carbon technology, such as:

  • The capacity of their technology at site/MPAN level.
  • Any export capacity of their technology at site/MPAN level.
  • The installation date of their technology at site/MPAN level.

By having a long-term view of your energy strategy, thinking about how technologies on-site could impact your organisation’s electricity demand profile, and proactively discussing this with your supplier, you’ll be able to make the most of your low-carbon technology and prepare for a net zero future.

 

If you’re looking to learn more about how to navigate the net zero energy transition, take a read of our series of e-guides, here. Or if you have any questions and would like to speak to one of our friendly team, get in touch at heretohelp@brytenergy.co.uk.

We are proud to announce that Bryt Energy has been accredited as a Silver Carbon Literate Organisation, making us the first renewable electricity supplier globally to become Carbon Literate. This milestone demonstrates our commitment towards tackling climate change, reducing our organisational carbon footprint, and empowering our team with the knowledge to create positive change. The energy sector continues to be a major contributor to the UK’s carbon emissions, so it’s essential for us to take a leading position in driving forward change in this industry.

As a supplier of zero carbon, 100% renewable electricity*, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We are always looking for more ways to embed our sustainability values in every corner of our business, which is why we engaged with Carbon Literacy in 2024. Carbon Literacy training provided a course for our team that covered the causes and impacts of climate change, the key role of renewable energy in decarbonisation, and the actions we can all take to reduce carbon emissions. We were able to customise the course to include how our purpose and sustainability strategy fit within the broader approach to tackling climate change, and the important part our industry has in driving change.

The Carbon Literacy programme has four tiers of accreditation – Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum. We achieved our Silver accreditation by having a significant portion of our workforce certified as Carbon Literate and have committed to embedding our learnings across the business by continuing to train our employees and advocate for climate education, inside and outside our organisation. So far, we have trained over 100 of our employees across 18 teams – and in total 60% of our employees are now certified as Carbon Literate.

This is one of the many steps we have taken as part of our wider commitment to being a truly sustainable and responsible business, as outlined in our Bryt by Nature framework. Our sustainable business report, Bryt by Nature, documents our progress in our sustainability journey, year-on-year. Carbon Literacy training is just one part of our wider employee engagement strategy for sustainability, which also includes benefits such as our Climate Perks scheme, Cycle to Work scheme, Electric Vehicle (EV) Salary Sacrifice scheme, and our partnership with National Express – all of which encourage low carbon, sustainable travel.

We feel that Carbon Literacy training has given our employees the chance to become even more connected to our purpose, and to fully understand the importance of our sustainability strategy. We hope the training will continue to inspire climate action and encourage them to share their knowledge with others.

“We are passionate about making sure our employees have the resources to create long-lasting change and carry forward our purpose, as every one of us has agency and a role to play in tackling the climate crisis. We look forward to continuing our Carbon Literacy journey into the future.” – David Taylor, Sales and Marketing Director

Dave Coleman, Co-Founder and Managing Director of The Carbon Literacy Project, said:

“By becoming a Silver accredited Carbon Literate Organisation, Bryt Energy has demonstrated its commitment to genuine climate action and the building of a low carbon future for us all. With the energy supply sector currently remaining one of the biggest sources of carbon emissions in the UK, it is encouraging to see Bryt Energy delivering such a positive example of sustainability leadership.”

 

To find out more about our experience in delivering Carbon Literacy training to our team, read our blog, here.

 

*Please visit https://www.brytenergy.co.uk/100-renewable-electricity/ for more information on our products and services.

Notes to Editors

[1] Carbon Literacy:

Carbon Literacy (CL) is “An awareness of the carbon costs and impacts of everyday activities, and the ability and motivation to reduce emissions, on an individual, community and organisational basis.”

It is delivered by testing and certifying successful individuals as Carbon Literate after they have participated in a day’s worth of learning and action.

 

[2] Bryt Energy:

Part of the Statkraft Group, Bryt Energy provides British businesses with zero carbon, 100% renewable electricity*, sourced solely from Solar, Wind and Hydro power.

Through pioneering products and services, they empower businesses to create value from their electricity usage by optimising their consumption and challenging the way they interact with the electricity system.

Website: brytenergy.co.uk

Phone number: 0330 053 8620

Email address: heretohelp@brytenergy.co.uk

 

[3] The Carbon Literacy Project:

The Carbon Literacy Project (CLP) was created and founded in 2011 and launched publicly in November 2012.

Website: carbonliteracy.com

Phone number: 0161 298 1782

Email address: media@carbonliteracy.com

 

Note: ‘Carbon Literacy’ and the ‘Carbon Literacy Project’ logo (including the use of text, the speech bubble and the style of imagery including people) are registered trademarks®.

In general usage and specifically within copy, the term Carbon Literacy is correctly capitalised as a noun: It is therefore “Carbon Literacy” not “carbon literacy”.

The Project’s Brand Guidelines covering usage of Carbon Literacy terminology and imagery are available at https://carbonliteracy.com/our-brand-guidelines/

 

[4] The Carbon Literacy Trust:

In 2013, The Carbon Literacy Trust (registered charity number: 1156722) was established and took on all Carbon Literacy Project assets, so that the charity’s trustees could oversee the dissemination of Carbon Literacy across the UK and beyond, for the public good.

As the UK’s fuel mix moves from fossil fuels to renewable electricity, and towards the target of decarbonising the electricity system by 2030, the increasing amounts of renewables on the grid means that businesses are going to be seeing the impact of these changes. As part of this, businesses may be considering low-carbon technologies such as electric heat pumps, batteries and on-site solar PV. For many, this is going to impact how they approach their electricity procurement and consumption.

Here, we will answer some of the key questions businesses may have about the energy transition and the changes that are coming to the electricity market, sharing our knowledge to help businesses navigate this evolving landscape. In doing so, we will highlight how businesses can take advantage of financial opportunities while still supporting the transition to a net zero, sustainable energy future.

What is the net zero energy transition?

The energy transition means removing our dependency on fossil fuels across heating, transport, and energy use in buildings and industry, and moving towards a net zero emissions future powered by low carbon electricity sources.

The UK’s fuel mix has drastically changed over the years, with an average of 51% of electricity in 2024 coming from renewable sources1. With this change, we’ll see our energy system shifting from a linear, ‘generator-to-consumer’ model, built around planned and controllable fossil fuel-powered generation, to a more ‘decentralised’ energy landscape, with localised on-site generation and low carbon technology. This will look quite different to our current system, with different challenges and opportunities.

While the UK’s current energy system relies on fossil fuel generation, which can be turned on at any time, you can’t control when renewable sources generate electricity. This means that consumers will need to play a more active role in balancing their electricity demand with available generated supply.

In addition to this, as the uptake of low carbon technology increases, electricity demand will change. This will, again, create a new balancing challenge, and businesses will have to think not only about how much electricity they use, but also when they use it, and what this means for their long-term energy strategies.

How will electricity demand change in the net zero energy transition?

As part of the energy transition, there will be an increased uptake of low carbon technologies. With the electrification of industries such as heat and transport, we will see a rise in the use of technologies like heat pumps, on-site solar panels and EV chargers. With this, the characteristics and profiles of electricity demand are going to change – how, when and what quantity of electricity businesses use is going to evolve.

If a business decides to electrify its fleet, for instance, and charge its vehicles overnight, its electricity consumption patterns will shift. Or, by installing solar panels on their roof, a business might consume less electricity from the grid in the middle of the day, further altering its consumption patterns. These demand changes will be even more significant on a UK-wide scale.

Consumers will need to become more flexible with their electricity usage, responding to the system to help balance the grid in times of low or high demand, supported with their use of low carbon technologies. We’ll need to maximise flexible assets, such as battery storage, heat pumps and smart grid technologies, so that electricity generation, consumption, and storage can adjust to meet changing needs without compromising reliability or affordability of supply.

By being responsive with their demand, business consumers can act as ‘good grid citizens’ to help support the UK’s changing electricity system. This means changing our mindsets to that of a ‘citizen’ instead of a ‘consumer’. If we all take a more considered and responsible approach to electricity usage, as a resource we all share, we can use renewable resources more efficiently and reduce the need for fossil fuels.

What does this mean for the electricity market?

At the moment, it’s difficult to say how the energy transition will impact wholesale electricity prices, because we don’t know exactly what this new electricity landscape is going to look like as it evolves. However, more unpredictable renewable generation will likely result in greater unpredictability for electricity prices.

In fact, negative half hourly electricity prices have already become more frequent, where the perfect combination of high renewable generation and low electricity demand led to periods where prices fell into the negative, with users essentially being paid to consume electricity. With higher amounts of solar generation being added over the past few years, we’ve seen periods of concentrated electricity generation in the middle of the day, causing lower prices between 11:00am-3:00pm. This shift in electricity patterns can sometimes be challenging to understand, with unknown amounts of solar on the grid. Similarly, in a net zero future where the majority of vehicles have been electrified, if everybody charges those overnight ready for the next day, off-peak overnight prices will rise.

What do these changes mean for businesses?

When businesses get their electricity supply contract, the supplier, unless you tell them otherwise, will assume that they will use the same amount of electricity, on the same profile, as they have over the last 12 months. Depending on what that business’s electricity procurement strategy looks like, they might buy their energy up to three years in advance based on the forecast that they had for their previous 12 months, and fix it at market price. If that business makes any changes, such as deciding to install EV charging points or electrify their heating, there will be a difference between their forecasted electricity usage and actual consumption.

As the electricity market evolves, in periods where businesses have over- or under-consumed, and they need to buy or sell some electricity back, they could be exposed to more unpredictable market prices.

At the moment, businesses have two choices. They can pay to mitigate this risk, using a fixed contract where their supplier takes on that market exposure of any differences between their forecasted electricity usage and what they actually consume. Or, if that business is able to be flexible and adapt their consumption in response to the system, they could take advantage of these changes to reduce or off-set costs, or at least hedge against greater risk.

What do businesses need to do to embrace the net zero energy transition?
  1. Businesses can better understand their electricity usage and their consumption patterns – this can then be brought into a long-term holistic energy strategy. It’s important to think ahead, and any plans to integrate low carbon technologies, such as EV charging or electric heat pumps, need to be considered to understand what impact that might have on consumption profiles.
  2. Businesses will need to communicate their energy strategy both internally and externally, and include everyone that may be involved, many of whom might not have had anything to do with energy before. For example, if someone who’s responsible for fleet is going to electrify their business’s vehicles, they’ll need to install charging points, but unless they communicate with the people procuring their electricity, that business could be exposed to unexpected electricity prices or fees.
  3. Businesses will also have to proactively manage their electricity usage with their supplier. By speaking to their supplier in advance, rather than relying on previous consumptions forecasts until technologies are in place, businesses can build any planned changes into appropriate contract structures and potentially benefit from financial gains.
  4. If businesses want to take this a step further, they could also take control of their assets on site and optimise them in line with market price signals. Bryt Energy, with our technology partners, can take information about electricity demand, generation and weather forecasts alongside our knowledge of the electricity market and, based on this, help customers adjust their electricity usage in line with system needs. Without interrupting their day-to-day operations, customers can be rewarded for these activities.
FIND OUT MORE

To find out more about what the energy transition might mean for your business, download our series of guides on ‘Navigating the Net Zero Energy Transition’ here. Alternatively, get in touch with our team to see how we could help your business’s sustainable energy journey.

Sources
  1. https://www.neso.energy/news/britains-electricity-explained-2024-review 

Our parent company, Statkraft, have released their annual energy report for the ninth year in a row, this time renaming their ‘Low Emissions Scenario’ report the ‘Green Transition Scenarios’ report. 

As an industry leader in renewable energy with over 125 years of history, Statkraft’s report has researched and outlined three possible scenarios for the global journey to net zero. These three scenarios include: 

  • The Green Transition Scenario, in which global collaboration helps accelerate and reduce the cost of the net zero energy transition. 
  • The Clean Tech Rivalry Scenario, which sees global superpowers in competition to reach net zero, therefore raising costs. 
  • The Delayed Transition Scenario, where geopolitical tensions and concerns on energy security disrupt the progression of the energy transition. 

The report demonstrates the fact that collective action and communication across nations is necessary in order to navigate and achieve a future powered by renewables. Despite the varying pace of the energy transition across the three scenarios, Statkraft has found that renewables replace fossil fuels in all scenarios, with wind and solar power especially thriving: both wind and solar power output increases by 13 times by 2050 in the Green scenario and grows by 6 times in the Delayed scenario. 

Here are some of the report’s key findings: 

  • There have been substantial reductions in emissions from the energy supply and industry sectors from 2005-2023. 
  • Global investments in renewable electricity are now ten times higher than fossil fuels. 
  • Electrification is the most significant decarbonisation solution for the industry sector, while green hydrogen also plays an important role in supporting hard-to-decarbonise sectors. 
  • Solar power is emerging as a cost-effective and quick-to-build renewable energy option, making it a great pacesetter for renewable energy. 
  • The cost of onshore wind power is decreasing, despite a period where costs temporarily increased, while the cost of offshore wind power is more expensive than was anticipated in early 2023. This is due to the impact of inflation, supply shortages, high commodity prices and interest rates. 
  • Geopolitical tensions will have a big impact on the energy transition. Factors like the US-China relationship and the recent US election are likely to affect the rate of progress towards net zero, as they may impact the level of competitiveness, hostility and unpredictability between the countries. This will impact how challenging and costly the energy transition becomes. 
  • Nevertheless, Statkraft notes that climate policies in major economies have generally remained strong, despite political tensions, and have even strengthened in some cases. 
  • Electricity demand is projected to double by 2050 in the Green scenario, largely influenced by the dramatic increase of electricity use in transport and heating, as they decarbonise, and the production green hydrogen. Consumption of electricity also increases by 50% even in the Delayed scenario.  
  • By 2050, renewable energy sources supply the majority of global energy demand in all scenarios: 84% in the Green scenario, 79% in the Clean Tech Rivalry scenario, and 65% in the Delayed scenario. 
  • Oil consumption is projected to continue in some capacity in aviation and long-haul transport, but by 2050 in the Green scenario, consumption is projected to decrease by 50%. 
  • The share of electricity in transport rises from 2% today to 70% in the Green scenario, as the transport sector continues to electrify and decarbonise. 
  • Electrification falls behind in the Clean Tech Rivalry scenario, compared to the Green scenario, due to geopolitical tensions that cause issues in relocating supply chains, leading to more expensive low-carbon technologies. 

The report lists seven decarbonisation solutions that can separate a Green scenario future from a Delayed scenario future. 

These include: 

  1. Accelerating the construction and deployment of renewable energy. 
  2. Increasing the electrification of end-user sectors, such as in buildings, industry and transport. 
  3. Encouraging energy efficiency through changes in behaviour. 
  4. Evolving the green and blue hydrogen market in Europe. 
  5. Developing the carbon capture and storage industry in Europe. 
  6. Phasing out the use of fossil fuels and simultaneously maintaining energy security. 
  7. Balancing the future energy system through sustainable flexibility methods. 

“The message is clear: the path to a sustainable energy future is neither straightforward nor easy, but it is achievable with decisive action and collective effort,” says Birgitte Ringstad Vartdal, CEO of Statkraft. 

To find out more about Statkraft’s Green Transition Scenarios 2024 report, you can visit their website and register to view the full report, here.

If you like to stay on top of any future energy cost changes that could affect your business, you’ll no doubt already be aware of Ofgem’s Targeted Charging Review (TCR). Having been in effect since April 2022, the TCR established a new system by which network owners charge energy customers for the use of the electricity networks in the UK.

Here’s a recap of the main things your business needs to know about TCR…

WHAT HAPPENED AND WHY?

The TCR is an Ofgem-led project that assessed how network charges are set and recovered. Launched in August 2017, the intention behind the TCR was to decide whether the system needed to be reformed to make it fairer. It addressed the concern that the current mechanisms used to recover Distribution Use of System (DUoS) and Transmission Network Use of System (TNUoS) charges could lead to inefficient use of the network and create an adverse effect on consumers. The Triad system used up until then saw half hourly (HH) metered customers charged for electricity transmission costs according to their consumption during the three half-hour periods in Winter when overall demand on the grid is at its peak. Ofgem was concerned that this system distorted the market by encouraging some businesses to shift their consumption to avoid Triad periods and not pay their share towards maintaining the grid year-round.

TNUoS

Based on the findings of the TCR, Ofgem decided to supplement the Triad consumption-based system for TNUoS with a banding-based daily charging system that should ensure all businesses pay their share towards the upkeep of the grid.

DUoS

DUoS tariffs have always had a fixed daily charge component. But as part of TCR, Ofgem directed that the way DNOs (Distribution Network Officers) set this charge should also change – moving some of the cost recovery that previously came through the volume-based rates into the fixed daily charge.

The banding for each meter on businesses’ site(s) is now based on their agreed supply capacity (if there has been one agreed) or their Estimated Annual Consumption (EAC) if an agreed supply capacity is not in place. Changes to DUoS tariffs went live in April 2022 and changes to the TNUoS charges came into effect in April 2023.

HOW BUSINESSES ARE AFFECTED

For larger businesses able to reduce or shift energy volumes, winter Triad periods previously provided an opportunity to make savings through flexibility by reducing consumption during peak periods. Even those who weren’t able to be flexible in their usage could mitigate the impact of Triads by increasing their energy efficiency. Since the new system, Triad avoidance is no longer possible for many and, where it remains, the benefits are significantly reduced. This means that businesses who used this method to reduce their TNUoS costs might have found their annual energy bills have increased. For businesses previously able to boost generation revenue by exporting energy to the grid at peak times, the reduction of Triads could have affected their bottom line and reduced the benefits of having on-site generation. While businesses who participate in grid-balancing Demand Side Response schemes are still able to benefit from doing so, they will have lost out on the additional revenue available during Triad periods.

For some, the TCR has meant a bigger energy bill and a need to rebalance the budget in other ways. But large energy users who had previously been unable to consume energy flexibly and had therefore been hit with excessive Triad costs could have seen a reduction in non-commodity costs.

TOTAL TRANSPARENCY FOR OUR CUSTOMERS

Each year, National Grid ESO publishes the fixed TNUoS charges, which take effect from 1st April for the following 12 months. To see the latest TNUoS charges, daily and volume-based, please visit here.

At Bryt Energy, we’ve clearly stated the TCR banded charges in our new contracts since September 2020, in order to give our customers as much visibility of their costs as possible.

And because our operations are built to be agile, our prices will always reflect Ofgem’s latest position and advice, if there are any future changes.

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR FLEXIBLE SOLUTIONS

Whilst the opportunities of Triad avoidance have been significantly reduced, now is the time to consider how you can optimise your electricity usage more continuously across the year and boost your revenue in other ways. For example, organisations can save money or access new revenue streams by adjusting their consumption (within agreed limits) in line with the grid’s needs, without impacting their operations. You can learn more about the benefits of optimising your electricity supply, here.

If you have any questions around TCR or how we’re supporting our customers through the changes, please get in touch with our team at heretohelp@brytenergy.co.uk.

As businesses see greater demand for sustainable options from their customers, renewables have increasingly become a focal point, with a greater variety of procurement options required to suit their needs. Corporate Power Purchase Agreements (CPPAs) are one such option, as they can help organisations reach their sustainability goals and assist wider decarbonisation. 

So we sat down with Rob Haddow, Strategic Account Manager at Bryt Energy, to answer some questions you might have about the benefits and considerations of CPPAs. 

1. WHAT IS A CPPA AND HOW DOES IT WORK?

Corporate Power Purchase Agreements (CPPAs) are long-term energy procurement agreements between a customer and an energy generator, such as a wind or solar farm. Through a CPPA, generators commit to provide long-term renewable power (and REGOs) to businesses. They typically last between 5-15 years and provide the option of either a ‘New to Earth’ project or existing asset. CPPAs can give businesses access to longer-term prices and greater budget certainty than they would receive under a regular electricity supply contract.

2. WHAT TYPES OF CPPAS EXIST AND WHAT DO THESE MEAN FOR BUSINESSES?

There are many different types of CPPAs to choose from, ranging from the type of asset to the type of contract, and it is important to understand which one best fits your business’ needs.

New to Earth

New assets, also known as ‘New to Earth’ CPPAs, are agreements with a new renewable electricity generation project that can only proceed as a result of the business’ investment. This means that the agreement is directly increasing the amount of renewables on the grid, and through this, businesses can display a strong commitment to sustainability.

New to Earth CPPAs do also come with some considerations. There can be challenges associated with the development of the project, such as obtaining planning permission and grid consent, meeting the agreed timeframes of the project, and producing the anticipated amount of renewable generation. Many of these risks can be mitigated through the terms of a CPPA, protecting customers financially, though they would need to consider their supply procurement options, should delays occur.

Existing

CPPAs with already existing electricity generation assets can provide long-term price certainty. Whilst existing CPPAs don’t enable the completion of a new renewable project, they do avoid any potential development challenges that can be associated with a New to Earth CPPA.

Other variations

CPPAs also vary by contract and agreement. A ‘Pay as Produced’ CPPA would involve agreeing to buy a percentage of the electricity produced by the generator, with payment varying based on the amount produced. In contrast, ‘Pay as Forecast’ CPPAs involve the customer purchasing energy based on the day-ahead forecasted generation, rather than the actual generation. ‘Shaped” or “Firmed” CPPAs have the intermittency of the generation profile turned into baseload blocks or an agreed profile, making it simpler to manage within a procurement strategy or an accompanying electricity supply contract.

3. WHAT ARE THE BUSINESS BENEFITS IN CHOOSING CPPAS?

Many consumers value environmental consciousness in companies, and there can be significant benefits to businesses choosing renewable options1. Should you wish to go a step further than a traditional renewable electricity supply contract, CPPAs can offer longer-term commitments to renewable generation projects and sustainability plans. Choosing a CPPA can demonstrate a direct link to a specific renewable asset or, through a New to Earth CPPA, be an essential part of enabling projects to complete, adding more renewable electricity to the grid.

CPPAs can also provide some budget certainty. These long-term agreements may include fixed prices for Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin (REGO) certificates and power, so will be unaffected by increasing market prices movement, providing a hedge that could be helpful for long-term strategies and stability.

4. HOW DO YOU KNOW IF A CPPA IS RIGHT FOR YOUR BUSINESS?

CPPAs are not for everyone, and that’s okay! Whilst CPPAs can be a key part of a sustainability strategy, it can be difficult to align the needs of your business with the right renewable generation project. For organisations who are thinking about a CPPA, thorough consideration and preparation early on can make a real difference in successfully agreeing one. Here are some things to consider if you’re thinking about a CPPA for your business.

  • Credit ratings

A CPPA provides a long-term revenue stream for the generation project, so the financial strength of the business is key. To agree one, you will need either an investment grade credit rating, subject to the provider’s thresholds, and/or the ability to post collateral (such as a bank guarantee). It’s also important to consider the credit standing of the project and the business managing the agreement between the generator and customer to ensure success.

  • Annual electricity consumption

CPPAs can be offered to a range of customers. They may suit businesses that have an annual electricity consumption of at least 20GWh+, and should typically provide you with approximately 50% of your required volume, to ensure you retain the ability to hedge against any usage change and market movements.

It may be possible to arrange CPPAs for businesses with smaller energy consumption through ‘baskets’, especially if they are looking to be contracted with an existing asset. ‘Basket’ CPPAs contain multiple smaller organisations contracted with one renewable energy generator and can allow smaller businesses to successfully establish a CPPA, collectively.

  • Internal engagement

There are a few things to consider within your organisation when looking into a CPPA. You’ll need to consider how a CPPA may align with your wider energy and decarbonisation strategies, and how this may fit into any existing electricity supply contracts you have. Additionally, choosing a CPPA should ideally be agreed at a decision-maker, even board level, as early as possible, to ensure a smooth procurement process.

5. HOW CAN BRYT ENERGY AND STATKRAFT HELP WITH CPPA SOLUTIONS?

Bryt Energy is part of the Statkraft Group – Statkraft is Europe’s largest renewable energy producer and a leading international hydropower company. Spanning 20+ countries, and with an A credit rating2, Statkraft develops and operates renewable energy assets, buys and sells energy, and invests 100% of growth into renewables.

Statkraft has invested over £1.4 billion in the UK’s renewable energy infrastructure since 2006 and is a leading provider of Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), having facilitated over 4.3GW of new-build renewable energy generation through PPAs, and have signed a number of CPPAs both here in the UK and across the globe. Statkraft also offers a Firming service for CPPAs. Through this service, Statkraft manages the intermittency of the generation profile, converting it into baseload blocks or an agreed profile, making it simpler to manage within a procurement strategy or an accompanying electricity supply contract.

As part of the Statkraft Group, we and our customers benefit from their 125+ years of renewables expertise, and their access to a range of renewable projects. As such, we work closely with Statkraft to integrate your CPPA seamlessly with your Bryt Energy supply contract, for a smoother process.

FIND OUT MORE

To find out more about CPPA options, and how this can work alongside a zero carbon, 100% renewable electricity* supply contract, get in touch with our team of experts here.

Sources
  1. According to a report from last year, 84% of customers have sustainability as a very important factor in deciding what to purchase. https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/consumer-packaged-goods/our-insights/the-world-of-ands-consumers-set-the-tone
  2. Based on Standard & Poor’s long-term credit rating. You can find out more on Statkraft’s credit ratings, here: https://www.statkraft.com/IR/credit-rating-and-analysis/

*Visit www.brytenergy.co.uk for more information on our products and services.

Many businesses are switching to renewable electricity because they believe that decarbonising their operations wherever possible is simply the right thing to do. Here at Bryt Energy, we wholeheartedly agree!

With the energy supply sector contributing to over 24.8% of the UK’s overall carbon emissions in 20221, opting for a zero carbon, fully renewable electricity supply is a simple and effective step that businesses can take to reduce their carbon footprint*. What organisations may not realise, however, is that switching to zero carbon electricity can also bring a whole host of other sustainable and reputational benefits to their business.

Let’s take a look at some of the other business benefits associated with a zero carbon supply:

DO YOU WANT TO EXPAND YOUR CUSTOMER BASE?

In 2024, customers actively want brands to embrace sustainable and people first-practices; last year, a report found that 84% of consumers consider sustainability as a very important factor in their purchasing decisions2 – so, if your business isn’t focused on reducing its carbon footprint, you could risk losing people along the way.

Customers are also increasingly savvy when it comes to ‘greenwashing’3 – where companies claim to have ‘green’ credentials in their marketing, but don’t take real action to reduce their impact on the environment. Greenwashing could seriously harm your business’ reputation, so it’s crucial to support any sustainability claims you make and to be transparent.

Switching to a zero carbon electricity supply can be a great way to show that you’re committed to reducing your emissions. Plus, with more and more companies obliged to report on their carbon emissions through schemes such as the Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) scheme, it can be an important first step.

DO YOU WANT TO ATTRACT THE BEST CANDIDATES TO YOUR ORGANISATION?

Placing a strong emphasis on sustainability is crucial in attracting and retaining bright, young talent in your organisation. With the younger generations of the workforce becoming more value-driven, sustainability concerns undoubtedly influence the types of roles and companies they choose to work for. In fact, last year, 55% of Gen Zs and 54% of millennials said they research a brand’s environmental impact and policies before accepting a job from them4.

With the number of Gen Z and millennials in the workforce continuing to grow, you need to ensure you can demonstrate your commitment to sustainability – and switching to zero carbon electricity is a great starting point.

ARE YOU SEEKING INVESTMENT?

If your business is seeking funding from investors, then switching to a zero carbon electricity supply could be a great way to boost your business’ investment appeal. Investors are increasingly using Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) criteria when considering whether to invest in a business – examining how a business impacts the environment and the wider society it operates within.

The Morgan Stanley Institute for Sustainable Investing found that over 70% of investors believe that strong ESG practices can lead to higher returns, while over half of those surveyed plan to increase their allocations to sustainable investments in 20245. By showing your commitment to your sustainability values by switching to zero carbon electricity, you’ll put your business in the best possible position to secure investment and progress towards your financial goals, all while making an important contribution to the UK’s wider net zero energy transition.

DO YOU FIT INTO A SUSTAINABLE SUPPLY CHAIN?

With businesses increasingly realising the value of sustainability, those at the top of the supply chain aren’t just looking to reduce the carbon emissions they create directly. Many are now also focusing on their Scope 3 emissions, which cover all the indirect emissions that occur within an organisation’s supply chain.

So, if you’re looking to stand out from the competition when buyers are seeking suppliers, then you need to focus on reducing your own emissions as much as possible. Not only can this make your business more appealing to potential customers, but many of them will be committed to various emissions reporting frameworks for their supply chains, and may ask you to disclose your emissions under these. Simple and proactive changes, such as considering a switch to a renewable electricity supply, can open new doors, helping your business to embrace new opportunities with those who hold values similar to your own.

MAKE THE SWITCH TODAY

At Bryt Energy, we only supply zero carbon, 100% renewable electricity, sourced solely from solar, wind, and hydro power*. This means that our customers are able to report zero carbon emissions for their electricity consumption in Scope 2 under the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol market-based method* – which could make a substantial difference to your carbon footprint and help you to access all of the benefits we’ve mentioned above.

Wondering how much difference zero carbon, 100% renewable electricity* could make to your business? Get in touch with our team of experts to learn more, and take the next step on your sustainability journey.

Sources
  1. https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1147372/2022_Provisional_emissions_statistics_report.pdf
  2. https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/consumer-packaged-goods/our-insights/the-world-of-ands-consumers-set-the-tone
  3. https://hbr.org/2022/07/how-greenwashing-affects-the-bottom-line
  4. https://www.deloitte.com/global/en/issues/work/content/genzmillennialsurvey.html
  5. https://www.morganstanley.com/ideas/sustainable-investing-on-the-rise#:~:text=More%20than%20half%20of%20individual,can%20lead%20to%20higher%20returns

*Bryt Energy’s supply product has been audited and verified by an independent third party, EcoAct, to guarantee that our products are backed by Renewable Energy Guarantee of Origin certificates (REGOs). Bryt Energy manages these certificates to ensure that we have a sufficient amount in order to supply renewable power to all of our customers across a year, and therefore allow our customers to report zero carbon emissions under the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol Scope 2 Guidance. All source certification meets GHG Protocol Scope 2 Guidance Quality Criteria for market-based reporting method.

Certificates are held by energy suppliers for Fuel Mix Disclosure (FMD) purposes and Bryt Energy’s FMD represents the total amount of electricity purchased from the wholesale market to cover our portfolio of customers’ supply in given FMD year. 100% of the total amount of electricity purchased for supply by Bryt Energy during the period 2023/24 was from renewable sources. Bryt Energy purchases all electricity through our parent company, Statkraft, who procure the electricity volume to match our customers’ contracted amount from the wholesale electricity market.

Please note, all electricity to your properties is supplied via National Grid’s transmission network and local distribution networks (not directly from a renewable generator), so you will be provided with electricity from a mix of sources that the grid is being supplied with at that time from all generators – this may include fossil fuel sources.

Our full Fuel Mix Disclosure and FAQs on our products are available here. You can find our verification assurance statement here.

Smart meters are making it easier for businesses to become active participants in the UK’s journey to a net zero energy future, helping them to take control of their electricity usage all whilst supporting the development of a more advanced, more sustainable grid. With the upcoming implementation of market-wide half hourly settlement (MHHS) – which will make sure that electricity costs are calculated accurately and fairly for everyone across the market, every half an hour – smart meters will play a crucial role in preparing the UK to achieve a more energy-efficient future, faster.

That’s why, here at Bryt Energy, we’re on a mission to get all eligible customers switched on to second-generation (SMETS2) smart meters.

We know that you might have some questions around smart meters – from the compatibility of smart meters to what happens on the day of installation. So, we sat down with Yasir Choudhry, Metering and Settlements Manager at Bryt Energy, to understand some common concerns and answer important questions around smart meters for businesses.

1. What exactly is a smart meter?

“A smart meter is a self-reading electronic device that records the energy you use, and automatically sends this data to your energy supplier. They eliminate the need for manual meter reads, and make sure you’ll get bills based on the electricity you’ve actually used.”

2. Is it free to get a smart meter?

“Yes, Bryt Energy can arrange a free installation of your smart meter between 8:00 – 17:00, Monday – Friday. We appreciate that sometimes this may not work for every business, so it may be possible to arrange an appointment on evenings or weekend, however there are charges for out of hours installations.”

3. Who is eligible to receive a smart meter?

“All Non-Half Hourly (NHH) customers, including those who currently have an AMR (Automated Meter Reading) or first-generation smart meter (SMETS1) are eligible to receive a second-generation smart meter (SMETS2)”.

4. Can I still get a smart meter if I rent a property?

“Yes – as long as you are the person who pays the energy bills, it’s up to you if you’d like a smart meter. If your landlord pays the bills, then you’ll just need to ask them for permission.”

5. What’s the difference between the first and second-generation smart meters?

“Second-generation smart meters (SMETS2) are cross-compatible with other energy suppliers, so if you decide to switch supplier, you won’t need to get a new meter. This level of flexibility is why we only offer our customers SMETS2 meters, rather than SMETS1.

“Also, SMETS2 meters have been designed to communicate using a more secure smart data network called the DCC – which enables them to be compatible with and communicate with SMETS1 meters. All remaining non-compatible SMETS1 meters will eventually be exchanged by SMETS2 meters across the industry.”

6. What’s the difference between Automated Meter Reading (AMR) and Smart meters (SMETS2)?

“You can think of smart meters as the upgraded, more technologically advanced version of AMR meters. With AMR, it’s like a one-way street for communication—your data goes to a designated collector, and from there, it heads to the supplier. SMETS2, however, offer two-way communication between you and your supplier, which gives you the flexibility to switch suppliers without any hassle.”

“The flexibility that SMETS2 offer is also important to support the UK as it transitions to a net zero energy system. As we transition to using more sources of renewable electricity, which cannot be turned on and off like traditional fossil fuel generation, balancing electricity generation and demand will become crucial. By helping the grid to better understand electricity usage patterns, SMETS2 are playing a vital role in creating a ‘smart grid’ – an advanced alternative to a traditional energy network, which uses digital technology to efficiently manage electricity generation, distribution, and consumption.”

“During the transition, there will also be an influx of transitional technologies such as heat pumps and electric vehicles. SMETS2 will be important in providing the flexibility to accommodate these technologies – leading the way to net zero, faster!”

7. Will my smart meter work with my building and IT infrastructure?

“Our smart meters are highly likely to work with your building and IT infrastructure. As long as there’s wide area network (WAN) coverage in your area, the second generation smart meter should work.”

“There may be rare cases where a meter will not work – it would be hard for signals to reach through very thick walls or deep down in a basement, but even in these cases, we do have aerials which can help boost signal.”

8. Do I need to get a new smart meter every time I switch suppliers?

“No. In fact, SMETS2 smart meters can provide your business with a great level of freedom when it comes to switching energy suppliers. They’re specifically designed to work seamlessly across the energy industry, allowing you to transition from one energy provider to another without the hassle of replacing your meters.”

9. Are smart meters safe?

“Yes, smart meters are safe. They’ve gone through extensive testing regimes and are covered by strict EU and UK safety laws, ensuring that they don’t pose a fire, electrocution or health risk on sites. In fact, Public Health England conducted an independent assessment and issued a statement confirming there’s no risk or dangers to health from smart meters. They found that exposure to radio waves from smart meters is much lower than the exposure from Wi-Fi and mobile phones, and is well within guideline levels1.”

10. How will my personal data be used?

“As part of having a smart meter installed, you’ll be consenting to us remotely reading your smart meter on a daily basis – but you can opt out of this at any time. If you choose to opt out, we’ll only check your meter once a month so that we can obtain an invoicing read and assist in any business processes, such as a Change of Tenancy. We can also use your consumption data to offer you tailored solutions to help maximise the value you see from your electricity supply contract.”

Why choose a smart meter from Bryt Energy?

From removing the need for manual meter readings to making your bills more accurate, smart meters can save you time and help keep control on your spend. Smart meters can help take your business’s energy awareness and management to entirely new levels, all whilst empowering your business to play an active role in achieving a net zero future.

To learn more about the benefits smart meters can offer your business, visit here. If you have any questions around smart meters, please speak to our friendly team of experts by either filling in our web form or emailing us at smart@brytenergy.co.uk.

Sources
  1. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/smart-meters-radio-waves-and-health/smart-meters-radio-waves-and-health

When businesses choose a renewable electricity contract, they usually do so because they are sustainability-minded, and they want their organisation to play their part in driving forward solutions to tackling the climate crisis.

That’s why at Bryt Energy, we’re passionate about our fuel mix – we only supply zero carbon, 100% renewable electricity, sourced solely from solar, wind and hydro power. Our fuel mix is audited and verified by an independent third party, EcoAct, every year and allows our customers to report their Scope 2 electricity consumption as zero carbon, under the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol market-based method.

Like the weather, our fuel mix ratio changes year-on-year, but you can always be sure that we only ever source our electricity from solar, wind and hydro power. Unlike fossil fuels, these sources are all zero carbon and 100% renewable forms of electricity at the point of generation, meaning they don’t create any carbon emissions or harmful air pollution, and are naturally replenishing.

All sources of electricity generation have their own unique considerations when it comes to their impact. We want to be totally transparent about why we’ve chosen our fuel mix and acknowledge that constructing, operating, and generating electricity comes with the need to manage sustainability challenges. Like all electricity generation, there are considerations such as human rights, supply chain vulnerabilities, and the embodied carbon of concrete that are crucial to manage and improve. We’re proud that our parent company, Statkraft, the largest renewable energy generator in Europe, has a long history of working to reduce the impact of different renewable electricity generation projects.

We have created this blog to take a deeper look into our fuel mix, to explain the benefits and considerations, and reiterate that by choosing solar, wind and hydro, we can help lead Britain towards a net zero, sustainable energy future.

SOLAR

Solar panels, also known as photovoltaics (PV), capture energy from the Sun and convert its light into electricity. So, at the point of generation, solar power produces zero emissions and is 100% renewable (for as long as the Sun keeps shining!).

In addition to being a zero carbon source of electricity, solar technology has seen consistent year-on-year improvements in efficiency. Since 2010, solar PV has become nearly 60% more efficient, meaning the size of panels can be kept the same, with higher capacity for electricity generation1. Well-managed solar farms have also been found to support biodiversity and bird species that are in decline2. In fact, Statkraft is developing a solar site in Cambridgeshire that will include measures to enhance biodiversity at the site by 141%3.

To reach net zero emissions, the UK Government announced targets to increase the capacity of solar generation from the 15 gigawatts (GW) currently installed4, to 70GW by 20355. Whilst increasing the deployment of solar power has led to debates in political circles around land use, research has shown that upscaling solar in line with net zero targets would only take up roughly half of the space currently used for golf courses6. Despite this, it remains important to optimise the area used for solar generation – with a recent study finding that utilising rooftops and car parks has the potential to provide at least 40GW of electricity generation capacity in England by 20357.

Looking at the lifecycle of solar panels, there is still a challenge with global supply chains, due to the ethical considerations of manufacturing being located in areas where there are significant human rights concerns8. There is a global consensus that if the supply chains of solar PV are concentrated in one area, then the industry could become vulnerable. The IEA suggests that diversifying the supply capacity would reduce the associated risks and potentially lead to economic and environmental benefits. Additionally, industry initiatives to improve the end-of-life recycling of solar panels will also reduce the environmental pressure that is placed on raw material demand, encouraging circular solutions9.

For the UK to achieve net zero, solar power will need to rapidly increase its contribution to the UK’s energy mix – a big challenge, but one we believe, together with our customers and the wider energy industry, is achievable.

WIND

Wind turbines, which sees rotating blades connected to a generator, harness energy from the wind by converting the kinetic energy into electricity. Wind energy makes up a significant proportion of our fuel mix and is particularly abundant in the UK, due to naturally windy conditions and the national ambition to be world leaders in wind generation10.

In the first quarter of 2023, wind farms in the UK generated more electricity than gas for the first time11, with record breaking wind generation set to continue as more capacity is installed. Whilst wind turbine infrastructure has presented challenges when it comes to end-of-life recycling12, a recent breakthrough in chemical technology means that it is possible for new epoxy-based blades to be broken down, reused and crucially, avoid landfill.

Some concerns have also been raised over the impacts of wind turbines on wildlife. However, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) stated that it supports the growth in offshore and onshore wind projects, with the knowledge that continued research on placement can minimise impacts on bird migration13. Moreover, some studies have shown offshore wind turbines can positively affect biodiversity, with algae, mussels and oysters growing on the foundation, providing them, and other marine species, with protected habitats14.

Both wind and solar are referred to as “intermittent” renewable energies, they cannot be turned on like traditional fossil fuel generation when there is demand. However, these energy sources can be co-located alongside battery storage to ensure renewable electricity is stored for when it’s needed, regardless of the weather. The reliability of wind generation here in the UK also hits its peak out at sea, where offshore wind farms are exposed to higher and almost constant wind speeds – ideal conditions for electricity generation.

Statkraft has ambitions to “accelerate growth in solar, onshore wind, and battery storage…reaching an annual development rate of 4GW by 2030”15. This rapid upscaling in renewable energy capabilities will support the UK’s target of increasing wind generation capacity and decarbonising the power system by 203516.

HYDRO

Hydro power stations take advantage of water flows by harnessing its kinetic energy and turning it into electricity. Despite being only a small part of the UK’s electricity mix17, hydro power is a mature technology with a history of more than 2,000 years, and globally, produces more electricity than all other renewable sources combined18. Hydro power stations can also be multipurpose, providing clean water and irrigation for agriculture, as well as providing flood and drought protection in some areas19. Research suggests the use of this technology in the last 50 years alone has helped to avoid more than 100 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) that would have been released from fossil fuel combustion20.

However, the development of hydro power can lead to socio-economic and environmental impacts during both the construction and the ongoing operation of projects. For example, hydro power developments have been criticised for displacing local communities, disrupting the surrounding water flows, and impacting local natural habitats21. Statkraft, the largest producer of hydro power in Europe, ensure they conduct impact assessments of new projects and work to mitigate the impacts22. At several of their sites, including at Rheidol hydro power station in Wales, Statkraft control water flow and install fish ladders to create better conditions for fish, protecting biodiversity23.

Hydro power is a reliable source of electricity, as water flow is predictable and controllable. This means hydro power stations have the ability to be turned on and off quickly, providing a stable source of generation during periods of fluctuating electricity demand, when the sun doesn’t shine, or the wind doesn’t blow. Hydro power is expected to remain the largest source of renewable electricity generation globally into the 2030s, providing much needed system flexibility24.

BIOMASS AND NUCLEAR

Both biomass and nuclear energy have been considered important sources of low carbon electricity generation that will help the UK transition to a net zero energy system. This is due to biomass being dispatchable on demand, while nuclear can provide a continuous stable baseload. Whilst we are strongly in favour of moving away from fossil fuels and the energy sector using all tools available to do this, we believe it is still important to critically assess all sources of electricity generation.

Biomass is derived from recently living organic materials (typically wood pellets in the UK) that is combusted to generate electricity. Although it is abundant and naturally replenishing, biomass does create carbon emissions when burned. There can, therefore, be a discrepancy between the CO2 released when combusted, and the time it takes for the same amount of carbon to be absorbed again by new biomass25. Because of this, there are ongoing debates whether biomass can be classed as a source of zero carbon electricity.

Nuclear energy creates electricity by splitting atoms apart, which creates heat. This heat is then turned into electricity by transforming water into steam, which spins a turbine26. Although nuclear can be classed as ‘zero carbon’ at the point of generation, it cannot be classed as renewable. This is because it requires uranium, a finite radioactive resource. Nuclear power is also controversial due to the environmental and health risks27 associated with the use of uranium and the accompanying radioactive waste it creates.

At Bryt Energy, we therefore chose to only supply our customers with zero carbon, 100% renewable electricity sourced solely from solar, wind and hydro.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR OUR CUSTOMERS?

Here at Bryt Energy, we’re passionate about the sources we have chosen to include in our fuel mix and the reasons why. While solar, wind and hydro power each have their own unique benefits and considerations, we believe that, together, they offer a resilient fuel mix that powers British businesses and leads the way towards a net zero, sustainable energy future.

So, if you’re a Bryt Energy customer, you can benefit from total peace of mind that our fuel mix has been comprehensively thought out to accommodate our sustainability values. You can also be assured that our fuel mix is matched with renewable energy guarantees of origin certificates (REGOs) which have been audited and verified by an independent third party, EcoAct. This means our customers can report zero carbon emissions on their Scope 2 under the GHG Protocol market-based method. For more information about our fuel mix and what you can report, read our thorough FAQs here.

By choosing zero carbon, renewable electricity* from Bryt Energy, you are also indirectly supporting renewable generation because we are part of the Statkraft Group. Statkraft has invested over £1.3 billion in the UK’s renewable energy infrastructure since 2006, and with their vision to “renew the way the world is powered”, we’re working to deliver this, together.

Join Bryt Energy today:

If you’re interested in securing zero carbon, 100% renewable electricity* for your business, find out more about becoming a Bryt Energy customer today by calling us on 0330 053 8620 or email heretohelp@brytenergy.co.uk.

Or if your business is looking to take the next step on its sustainable energy journey, you can access our series of guides on ‘Navigating the net zero energy transition’, here: https://www.brytenergy.co.uk/navigating-the-energy-transition/.

*Bryt Energy’s supply product has been audited and verified by an independent third party, EcoAct, to guarantee that our products are backed by Renewable Energy Guarantee of Origin certificates (REGOs). Bryt Energy manages these certificates to ensure that we have a sufficient amount in order to supply renewable power to all of our customers across a year, and therefore allow our customers to report zero carbon emissions under the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol Scope 2 Guidance. All source certification meets GHG Protocol Scope 2 Guidance Quality Criteria for market-based reporting method.

Certificates are held by energy suppliers for Fuel Mix Disclosure (FMD) purposes and Bryt Energy’s FMD represents the total amount of electricity purchased from the wholesale market to cover our portfolio of customers’ supply in given FMD year. 100% of the total amount of electricity purchased for supply by Bryt Energy during the period 2023/24 was from renewable sources. Bryt Energy purchases all electricity through our parent company, Statkraft, who procure the electricity volume to match our customers’ contracted amount from the wholesale electricity market.

Please note, all electricity to your properties is supplied via National Grid’s transmission network and local distribution networks (not directly from a renewable generator), so you will be provided with electricity from a mix of sources that the grid is being supplied with at that time from all generators – this may include fossil fuel sources.

Our full Fuel Mix Disclosure and FAQs on our products are available here. You can find our verification assurance statement here.

Sources
  1. https://www.iea.org/reports/solar-pv-global-supply-chains/executive-summary
  2. https://www.solarpowerportal.co.uk/news/national_survey_finds_that_well_managed_solar_farms_can_address_loss_of_bio
  3. https://www.statkraft.co.uk/about-statkraft-uk/where-we-operate/Locations/stargoosesolar/
  4. https://www.solarpowerportal.co.uk/news/government_figures_show_a_6.7_increase_in_the_uks_solar_capacity_in_last_ye
  5. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/independent-review-of-net-zero-government-response/responding-to-the-independent-review-of-net-zeros-recommendations
  6. https://www.carbonbrief.org/factcheck-is-solar-power-a-threat-to-uk-farmland/
  7. https://www.cpre.org.uk/news/rooftops-can-provide-over-half-our-solar-energy-targets-report-shows/
  8. https://www.statkraft.co.uk/lowemissions/
  9. https://www.iea.org/reports/solar-pv-global-supply-chains/executive-summary
  10. https://www.ukri.org/news-and-events/responding-to-climate-change/topical-stories/harnessing-offshore-wind/
  11. https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/british-wind-power-overtakes-gas-first-time-q1-2023-report-2023-05-10/
  12. https://www.vestas.com/en/media/company-news/2023/vestas-unveils-circularity-solution-to-end-landfill-for-c3710818
  13. https://community.rspb.org.uk/ourwork/b/science/posts/the-rspb-and-offshore-wind
  14. https://www.nature.com/articles/s44183-022-00003-5
  15. https://www.statkraft.co.uk/about-statkraft-uk/strategy/
  16. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/powering-up-britain/powering-up-britain
  17. https://www.congletonhydro.co.uk/about-dane-valley-community-energy-dvce-benefit-society/hydroelectricenergy/#:~:text=Hydroelectric%20Power%20in%20the%20UK,1.8%25%20of%20our%20national%20capacity
  18. https://www.irena.org/Publications/2023/Feb/The-changing-role-of-hydropower-Challenges-and-opportunities
  19. https://www.hydropower.org/iha/discover-facts-about-hydropower
  20. https://www.hydropower.org/factsheets/greenhouse-gas-emissions#:~:text=Independent%20research%20suggests%20that%20use,United%20States%20for%2020%20years
  21. https://www.ucsusa.org/resources/environmental-impacts-hydroelectric-power#:~:text=Flooding%20land%20for%20a%20hydroelectric,way%20for%20reservoirs%20%5B3%5D
  22. https://www.statkraft.co.uk/sustainability/our-commitments/environment/
  23. https://www.statkraft.co.uk/about-statkraft-uk/where-we-operate/Locations/rheidol-hydropower-plant/
  24. https://www.iea.org/energy-system/renewables/hydroelectricity
  25. https://community.rspb.org.uk/ourwork/b/nature-s-advocates/posts/biomass–_2d00_–a-burning-issue
  26. https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/nuclear-energy/
  27. https://www.lse.ac.uk/granthaminstitute/explainers/role-nuclear-power-energy-mix-reducing-greenhouse-gas-emissions/ 

For many years, the energy transition and the idea of a net zero world has felt like something for the future. Obstacles such as poor availability, uncertain cost effectiveness and a lack of widespread knowledge or proven case studies have prevented businesses from embracing key energy transition-enabling technologies and taking action. Now, as these technologies become increasingly affordable and familiar, businesses are in the perfect position to act.

In this blog, we look at four technologies that will be key in the net zero energy transition and what they could mean for your business’s sustainable energy journey.

1. Storage: Maximise your self-generated electricity

Investing in energy storage is one of the simplest and most-effective ways to take advantage of the opportunities within the net zero energy transition. Able to store self-generated electricity as well as intelligently collect energy from the grid at times when it’s cheapest, batteries can help businesses avoid costly peak charges whilst also providing resilience. Batteries can also import energy from the grid when it’s at lower carbon intensity to help support a net zero system.

Battery energy storage also enables your business to maximise the use of other low-carbon technologies such as photovoltaic (PV) solar panels. Solar panels are a great choice for business looking to generate renewable electricity on-site because they can help you make use of otherwise largely unused space, such as rooftops.

Pairing technologies such as PV and battery storage can form the basis of an effective, wider energy strategy as storage enables your self-generated electricity to be used when the sun isn’t shining, instead of going to waste. Businesses could also choose to trade back to the grid at a time when others need it more, providing a new stream of revenue whilst supporting a net zero system.

2. Electric vehicles: Adopt a sustainable transportation strategy

Electric vehicles (EVs) are another way businesses can take their next steps in the net zero energy transition. And best of all, with the right strategy in place, there are multiple benefits to electrifying a business fleet. Having EV chargers on-site could boost footfall as EV cars become more popular among the public. Additionally, they could provide an extra revenue source if businesses rent out charging spaces to the community or other companies outside of office hours. And, if paired with a renewable electricity supply or on-site generation, a fleet of electric company cars can help a business reduce its carbon footprint straight away.

3. Heat pumps: Electrify your heating

With non-domestic buildings accounting for nearly 1/5 of the UK’s carbon emissions1, electrifying and decarbonising heating is becoming an increasing priority for businesses. Heat pumps have a key role to play in this and, as they become better understood, more affordable and accessible, how can businesses take advantage of them?

Air source or ground source heat pumps can be installed on the outside of commercial buildings and are powered by electricity. They work by extracting heat from air or water and using it to heat a building. This electrification of heating can help businesses reduce both their energy bills and, especially if powered by renewable electricity, their carbon emissions. Whilst a relatively new technology, businesses adopting heat pumps now can enhance their reputations as leaders in the energy transition.

4. Green hydrogen: Prepare for alternative fuels

As well as taking advantage of existing low-carbon technologies, businesses can also be aware of innovations that are – although in their early development stages – likely to play a major part in the future energy system. Green hydrogen is an example of this – a sustainable alternative to fossil fuel gas that can be produced using renewable energy sources. Extremely versatile, it can be used to power a variety of applications, and can be used as a fuel, to generate heat and electricity, as well as a raw material in industrial processes and products. As such, it’s likely to have a key role in decarbonising heat and transport, and for existing energy-using assets that cannot be electrified, such as high-temperature processes.

Optimisation: Take your energy transition to the next level

Through optimising their electricity use, businesses can maximise the benefits of these low-carbon technologies and reduce their electricity costs. Optimisation involves using data analytics and machine learning to analyse electricity consumption patterns and identify areas where usage can be adjusted for greater efficiency and in response to the grid’s needs.

For example, here at Bryt Energy, we use integrating technologies to harmonise customers’ electricity consumption (in operations such as industrial machinery, refrigeration or HVAC) with periods of high renewable generation and system needs. This enables businesses to be more intelligent and sustainable with their electricity usage, to earn revenue and reduce costs by making use of what they’ve already got – all while business activities remain unimpacted.

Get started, today

Low-carbon technologies are becoming more widely available, and increasingly more cost-effective. By considering storage technologies, on-site generation, electric vehicles, heat pumps and being aware of green hydrogen, businesses can embrace the cost saving, revenue and reputational opportunities these technologies offer. And, by bringing it all together with optimisation and a holistic energy strategy, businesses of any size can gain all the benefits and take this vital next step in their net zero energy transition journeys. And they can do it now.

Read the third guide in our Navigating The Net Zero Energy Transition And What It Means For Your Business series to find out more: https://www.brytenergy.co.uk/navigating-the-energy-transition/.

Sources
  1. https://adveco.co/the-future-of-fossil-fuels-in-uk-commercial-buildings/

With businesses feeling the implications of a volatile period for energy prices and high inflation, many are facing a difficult balancing act. Day-to-day operational challenges require immediate attention but the transition to sustainable, net zero operations is also pressing. However, with access to more data than ever, businesses are better positioned to evaluate their procurement options. Having better insight into energy usage enables businesses to work with their supplier to establish a contract that truly meets their requirements – and one that can help them take full advantage of the energy transition.

This means taking a different approach to electricity procurement. Businesses will need to work directly with suppliers and take a more holistic approach. This means not just thinking about unit and standing charges, but truly understanding consumption, volume and energy profiles, and thinking ahead.

At Bryt Energy, we understand that for businesses who are already facing more immediate challenges, this may feel daunting. But we believe that implementing a new mindset will enable a huge number of new opportunities, better control of energy usage and spend, and a faster route to a new, net zero energy system.

 

Here are 3 top tips to supercharge your business electricity procurement strategy:

1. Collect and use accurate data

Gaining accurate insight into energy usage is key to a purchasing strategy in the current energy market – actions must be data driven and well planned. Luckily, today’s businesses are well equipped to get a strong handle on what they expect to consume and when they expect to consume it. In fact, most companies may be more ready than they might think – much of the useful data can be provided by energy-using assets that are already owned.

This is thanks to technologies such as smart meters and data visualisation tools, which allow businesses to find out exactly how much electricity they are using and when, as well as which devices or machines are using the most electricity. With a more accurate prediction of your usage, a more suitable procurement plan can be drawn up. Businesses will have everything they need to approach suppliers, who can then put together a contract based on their exact usage. This data can also help suppliers build the right mechanisms into business energy contracts to help them navigate a volatile energy market and prepare for the future.

2. Collaborate with suppliers

Adopting a new energy procurement strategy doesn’t mean going it alone. In fact, it’s quite the opposite – with accurate data and insight, talking to suppliers can make all the difference. Energy procurement no longer needs to be based on estimating usage, predicting short-term needs or risking mismatched consumption patterns. Suppliers are now able to utilise a good understanding of a customer’s business operations and support in creating a more accurate forecast.

After working more closely with suppliers, contract structures can be based on exact usage whilst also factoring in plans for the future. This means businesses are more likely to avoid penalties associated with inaccurate consumption estimates or future changes to usage.

Furthermore, adopting a new procurement strategy doesn’t mean compromising on control. Using more accurate insight, suppliers can help businesses react to the current market and navigate the energy transition, all while retaining a high level of control over their energy usage.

3. Choose a contract that suits you

Traditionally, businesses have chosen between variations on fixed and flexible supply contracts, with many waiting until their renewal period before making the crucial decisions on their next contract or preferred supplier. But with better consumption insight and a more direct approach with suppliers, businesses can create a contract that truly meets their needs.

For many that have focused on fixed contracts, flexible options may now be suitable, but there are some key things to consider:

  • Fixed contracts are beholden to the market price of the day and so don’t allow businesses to take advantage of price drops. However, they traditionally provide a high level of budget certainty and protection against market spikes, with a set rate per unit of energy.
  • Flexible contracts, whilst potentially more complex, allow businesses to take advantage of fluctuations in the market and make multiple purchasing decisions throughout the term of the contract. The agreement is more likely to be based on real, accurate energy usage and enables the business and supplier to share some of the risk.

However, when considering contract options, it’s also important to consider what your electricity usage may look like in the future. The uptake of transitional technologies will change businesses’ electricity usage, resulting in volume and profile changes. Traditional contracts don’t allow for such changes, potentially leaving both businesses and suppliers exposed within a volatile market – resulting in additional fees or premiums. To thrive in a net zero future, businesses need to choose a contract that will suit them both now and going forwards.

Ultimately, it’s important to use the most accurate data available and have a conversation with your supplier to choose the right electricity contract. Every business’s needs will vary slightly, and only with an in-depth understanding of those requirements can you reach the right decisions.

The time is now

With a new procurement strategy in place, businesses can now think about and work towards optimising their consumption in line with the whole energy system’s needs. With increased knowledge and new technologies, there’s never been a better time to unlock value from your operations.

To learn more, read our FREE guide on Navigating the net zero energy transition here. Part 2: Take Control of Your Energy, Now, is available now.

If you like to stay on top of any future energy cost changes that could affect your business, you’ll no doubt already be aware of Ofgem’s Targeted Charging Review (TCR). Having been in effect since April 2022, the TCR has established a new system by which network owners charge energy customers for the use of the electricity networks in the UK.

With changes to TNUoS (Transmission Network Use of System) charges coming from April 2023, we take a look what this could mean for your business. Here are the main things you need to know…

WHAT’S HAPPENING AND WHY?

The TCR is an Ofgem-led project that assesses how network charges are set and recovered. Launched in August 2017, the intention behind the TCR was to decide whether the system needed to be reformed to make it fairer. It addressed the concern that the current mechanisms used to recover Distribution Use of System (DUoS) and Transmission Network Use of System (TNUoS) charges could lead to inefficient use of the network and create an adverse effect on consumers. The Triad system used up until now saw half hourly (HH) metered customers charged for electricity transmission costs according to their consumption during the three half-hour periods in Winter when overall demand on the grid is at its peak. Ofgem was concerned that this system distorted the market by encouraging some businesses to shift their consumption to avoid Triad periods and not pay their share towards maintaining the grid year-round.

Based on the findings of the TCR, Ofgem decided to supplement the Triad consumption-based system for TNUoS with a banding-based daily charging system that should ensure all businesses pay their share towards the upkeep of the grid. DUoS tariffs have always had a fixed daily charge component. But as part of TCR, Ofgem has directed that the way DNOs (Distribution Network Officers) set this charge should also change – moving some of the cost recovery that currently comes through the volume-based rates into the fixed daily charge.

The banding for each meter on businesses’ site(s) is now based on their agreed supply capacity (if there has been one agreed) or their Estimated Annual Consumption (EAC) if an agreed supply capacity is not in place. Changes to DUoS tariffs went live in April 2022 and, following some delays, changes to the TNUoS charges will come into effect from April 2023.

HOW BUSINESSES WILL BE AFFECTED 

For larger businesses able to reduce or shift energy volumes, winter Triad periods have historically provided an opportunity to make savings through flexibility by reducing consumption during peak periods. Even those who aren’t able to be flexible in their usage can mitigate the impact of Triads by increasing their energy efficiency. Under the new system, Triad avoidance will no longer be possible for many and, where it remains, the benefits will be significantly reduced. This means that businesses who used this method to reduce their TNUoS costs might find their annual energy bills could be significantly increased. For businesses previously able to boost generation revenue by exporting energy to the grid at peak times, the reduction of Triads could affect their bottom line and reduce the benefits of having on-site generation. While businesses who participate in grid-balancing Demand Side Response schemes will still be able to benefit from doing so, they will lose out on the additional revenue available during Triad periods.

Another consideration for some businesses whose contracts begun in the winter is that the new daily TNUoS charges, coming into effect from April 2023, will overlap with the Winter 2022 Triad recovery costs, which are typically spread across bills over 12 months. Businesses should therefore work these costs into their budgets now.

For some, the TCR will mean a bigger energy bill and a need to rebalance the budget in other ways. But large energy users who have previously been unable to consume energy flexibly and have therefore been hit with excessive Triad costs could actually see a reduction in non-commodity costs – and it’s these businesses that must think most carefully before they choose their next contract.

TOTAL TRANSPARENCY FOR OUR CUSTOMERS

National Grid ESO has now published the TNUoS charges that will be fixed from April 2023 for 12 months. To view the daily charges by band, please visit here.

At Bryt Energy, we’ve clearly stated the TCR banded charges in our new contracts since September 2020, in order to give our customers as much visibility of their costs as possible. For some contracts signed before September 2020, we have recalculated the TNUoS costs in line with the latest published tariffs, and this will be reflected on those customers’ bills during May. For our customers on a Pure Control or Pure Flex contract, you will see a new daily cost line on the TNUoS charges section of your bill, also from May.

And because our operations are built to be agile, our prices will always reflect Ofgem’s latest position and advice, if there are any future changes.

Make the most of your flexible solutions

If you’re currently using technology or solutions to avoid Triad periods and expensive time of use charges, the benefits might be reduced slightly with fixed-rate charge, but they won’t disappear. Now is the time to consider how you use these solutions to optimise your usage more continuously and boost your revenue in other ways. For example, organisations opting for our optimisation solutions are able to offset 20% of their energy spend by allowing us to subtly tweak their consumption (within agreed limits) in line with system needs, without impacting their operations. You can learn more about the benefits of optimisation in our blog, here.

If you have any questions around TCR or how we’re supporting our customers through the changes, please get in touch with our team at heretohelp@brytenergy.co.uk.

*Please note that the Government’s Energy Bills Discount Scheme ended on 31st March 2024. If you have any questions regarding this scheme, or anything at all, you can get in touch with our friendly customer service team at heretohelp@brytenergy.co.uk.

Updated 1st September 2023

The UK Government has announced a new ‘Energy Bills Discount Scheme’, which will replace the current ‘Energy Bill Relief Scheme’ that ended in March 2023. 

Set to come into effect on 26th April 2023, the new Energy Bills Discount Scheme will (retrospectively) run from 1st April 2023 – 31st March 2024, to help support businesses with the cost of wholesale energy for an additional 12 months. 

The EBDS proposal contains 3 types of discounts – baseline, Energy and Trade Intensive Industry (ETII) discount, and Heat Networks (QHS) discount. 

For the baseline discount, eligible non-domestic consumers will receive a per-unit discount to their electricity bills during the 12-month period, subject to a maximum discount, and those in energy intensive sectors are set to receive a higher level of support. 

The new scheme will see a big reduction in the amount of discount being offered to businesses compared to EBRS and for many eligible businesses the discount looks likely to fall below 2p per kWh.

 

Eligibility 

The eligibility for the scheme has been defined by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) as follows: 

 

Everyone on a non-domestic contract including: 

  • businesses 
  • voluntary sector organisations, such as charities 
  • public sector organisations such as schools, hospitals and care homes 

 

who are: 

  • on deemed/out of contract or variable tariffs: the baseline discount looks likely to be set at zero at present and the Government will update the discount quarterly. 
  • on fixed price contracts: as with EBRS, this is based on the date the contract was signed (you can find this on the final page on your contract) and only customers with contracts signed after December 2021 are eligible. Please be aware that the discount may still be set at zero. 
  • on flexible purchase or similar contracts: any discount applied will depend on your wholesale energy price. 

You can see the recently published discount rates here. 

If you are eligible for the EBDS baseline discount, you will not have to take any action or apply to receive support. We will apply your discount automatically in line with the Government’s guidelines and this will be clearly included on your monthly energy bill, subject to the required legislation being in place.    

 

Energy and Trade Intensive Industries discount 

The ‘Energy and Trade Intensive Industries’ (ETII) is an additional discount introduced by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) for businesses in energy and trade intensive industries. 

This higher discount will be available to specific businesses on their energy bills. To check whether you are eligible, you can review the applicable SIC (Standard Industrial Classification) codes, here.

Whilst the original deadline for the Energy and Trade Intensive industry (ETII) discount was 25th July, if you have since become eligible after 26th April 2023, or were previously eligible and have since switched suppliers, please notify the The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) so that they can update your records. DESNZ will then determine whether your business qualifies. We will then be in touch with you within 10 working days of DESNZ notifying us of your eligibility, with further details of your discount.

For more information on this discount, visit our FAQs or the Government’s website, here.

 

Qualifying Heat Suppliers discount  

‘QHS’ stands for ‘Qualifying Heat Suppliers’ discount. This discount is extra to the Energy Bills Discount Scheme (EBDS) and is available to Qualifying Heating Networks (QHNs). The discount is payable for QHNs that have domestic properties within their network.

Whilst the original deadline for the Qualifying Heat Suppliers (QHS) discount was 25th July, if you have since become eligible after 26th April 2023, or were previously eligible and have since switched suppliers, please notify the The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) so that they can update your records. DESNZ will then determine whether your business qualifies. We will then be in touch with you within 10 working days of DESNZ notifying us of your eligibility, with further details of your discount.

Please note that Heat Networks with domestic end consumers will be required by law to apply for this support and pass on the benefit they receive to their end consumers.

For more information on this discount, visit our FAQs or the Government’s website, here.

If you cannot apply online, or have any questions about these discounts, please get in touch with DESNZ’s EBDS customer support team on: 

Email: support@ebds.beis.gov.uk

Telephone: 030 0400 5251

Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm 

 

Learn more 

You can learn more about the new scheme on the Government’s website, here. You can also find our comprehensive list of Frequently Asked Questions, here, or you can get in touch with our friendly customer service team at heretohelp@brytenergy.co.uk. 

Smart meters allow businesses to closely track their energy usage and minimise wastage, saving money and creating a more sustainable energy grid.

Energy prices are at the top of everyone’s agenda at the moment, including businesses. In the current climate it’s understandable that energy managers, procurement teams and facilities professionals want as much clarity as possible on how much they spend on energy, and where they spend it.

According to thinktank Green Alliance, “wasted energy”, i.e. excess energy consumed through a lack of efficiency, could be costing UK businesses around £60m each year1. Wasted energy in the City of London alone could power over 65,000 homes, emitting the same amount of carbon annually as 46,000 cars2.

Smart meters can be a helpful way for businesses to keep track of their energy usage, saving both time and money by removing the need for manual meter readings and avoiding estimated invoices.

As part of the UK Government’s smart meter roll out, we’re on a mission to get eligible customers switched on to second-generation (SMETS2) smart meters, ensuring they can keep a close eye on what they’re using, minimise energy spend, and create a more sustainable approach to energy usage in the UK. SMETS2 meters in particular are designed to be universal and work across the industry, allowing you to easily to switch providers and keep the same smart meter.

What benefits can smart meters offer businesses?

Smart meters track energy usage down to the unit, making billing more accurate and helping consumers keep a tight control of their spend, by ensuring they only pay for the electricity they actually use. A smart meter records your usage in near real-time and, when paired with a data visualisation tool*, provides a view of your previous usage so you can take swift action to avoid energy wastage.

Data visualisation tools* linked to your smart meters make it far easier to gain a clear understanding of how and when your business consumes energy, and to spot trends or anomalies. It also helps businesses make informed decisions around where consumption can be reduced and energy efficiency measures improved. That data then enables a more accurate prediction of your energy usage, which suppliers can use to draw up the most suitable contract options for your business.

That deeper understanding of your energy consumption can help you make behavioural changes to reduce unnecessary usage, keep track of the impact your changes have, and communicate this to your teams more effectively – all without causing any disruption to your business or your people.

Beyond cost management, businesses can better work towards Environmental Social Governance (ESG) goals by using the usage data provided by smart meters to implement – and report on – energy efficiency targets. At a wider level, businesses also stand to better support the transition of the UK’s smart grid.

Make a change for the better with a smart grid

Assessments by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) show that global temperatures will rise to catastrophic levels unless we take action3. The IPCC believes that if we all do our bit to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through the decarbonisation of energy, we can still stabilise global temperatures.

In the UK, energy supply is one of the biggest sources of emissions, with the energy supply sector contributing more than 23.6% of the UK’s overall carbon emissions in 2021. Thankfully businesses nationwide are making the switch to renewable electricity to help reach net zero by 2050, and smart meters – and ‘smart grids’ – play a fundamental role in this.

You might have heard the phrase ‘smart grid’ before, but if you haven’t, a smart grid is an alternative to a traditional energy network that enables two-way digital dialogue between a supplier and consumer. Smart grids allow for better monitoring and analysis of energy usage on both your side and ours, and this two-way conversation is important as the UK transitions to a net zero system.

As part of the energy transition, industries such as heat and transport will need to decarbonise and electrify, which will cause demand for electricity to rise. As that increases, today’s infrastructure of cables, pylons, and substations may struggle to cope. By getting to grips with the usage data and generation data across the network, the UK will be in a far better position to match supply with demand and operate an efficient energy system – one which actively supports renewable electricity sources whilst providing reliable and affordable electricity for everyone. Taking a smarter approach to electricity usage can help everyone get the most out of the existing infrastructure, reducing the need for expensive upgrades.

With a smart meter tracking your business’s energy usage, you’ll be better equipped to make targeted efficiency improvements, minimising the electricity you use and reducing wastage whilst supporting the transition to a smart grid and net zero.

What is the process for installing a business smart meter?

Some people may worry that getting a smart meter installed could be disruptive to their day, but the process couldn’t be simpler. We can install your smart meter for free between 08:00 and 17:00, Monday to Friday**. Your power will typically be down for only around 30-40 minutes and our engineers will try their hardest to minimise any disruption.

Did you know? If you are a rental tenant, you can still get a smart meter as long as you pay the energy bill. And if your landlord pays, you will just need to seek their permission first.

If you have any other questions around smart meters, you view our full list of FAQs, here.

Why choose a business smart meter from Bryt Energy?

A better approach to energy is within our collective grasp and it’s up to all of us to make it a reality. From the start, Bryt Energy has been providing British businesses with zero carbon, 100% renewable electricity, sourced solely from Solar, Wind and Hydro power.

Every organisation’s journey in reducing carbon emissions is unique, and the best place to start is by switching to a trusted supplier of renewable electricity. Our range of tools, including second-generation smart meters, can take your business’s energy awareness and management to entirely new levels, enabling you to play your part in a net zero future.

 

If you’re looking to have a smart meter installed, or have any questions at all, please speak to our friendly team of experts by either filling in our web form or emailing us at smart@brytenergy.co.uk.

 

*Please speak to our smart metering team to discuss suitable options available to your business.

**If you require an appointment outside of these times, please discuss this when arranging your installation, as there may be an Out of Hours charge dependent on the time and day of your booking.

Sources
  1. https://green-alliance.org.uk/publication/a-smarter-way-to-save-energy-using-digital-technology-to-increase-business-energy-efficiency/
  2. https://green-alliance.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/A_smarter_way_to_save_energy_methodology.pdf
  3. https://www.ipcc.ch/

For the seventh year in a row, our parent company, Statkraft, has released its Low Emissions Scenario. A leading international hydropower company and Europe’s largest generator of renewable energy, Statkraft’s latest report is a comprehensive analysis of the global energy market towards 2050.

 

This year’s Low Emissions Scenario looks at the need to reduce dependence on Russian gas and the increased ambitions around renewable energy. In the report, Statkraft predicts that Europe will have significantly more solar power by 2030 than expected before the war in Ukraine and, along with wind power, will be the crucial renewable technology in reducing the European Union’s dependence on Russian gas and cutting emissions.

Statkraft’s Low Emissions Scenario demonstrates that we don’t have to choose between solving the ongoing energy crisis or the climate crisis. The solution to both crises is the same: more renewable energy and more efficient energy use.

Christian Rynning-Tønnesen, President and CEO of Statkraft, continues: “In the Low Emissions Scenario, the best measures to solve the ongoing energy crisis are the same measures that are crucial to fighting the climate crisis. A greater focus on energy security and energy self-sufficiency will also drive the green energy transition”.

 

Some of the key findings from the report include:

  • Statkraft’s Low Emissions Scenario is an optimistic yet realistic scenario, where global energy-related CO2 emissions are reduced by 60% from today until 2050. The scenario will be within emission levels that can limit global warming to 2°C. An even faster transition is necessary to reach the 1.5°C target.
  • It will be challenging, but possible for the EU to become independent of Russian Gas by 2030.
  • Along with wind power, solar power will be key to making this independence happen.
  • Solar power will be the global winner in the energy transition. It will become the world’s largest source of power generation around 2035 and by 2050, will produce 26 times more power than today.
  • The use of fossil fuels will fall sharply. In the power mix, coal will drop by 75% and gas will drop by 23%.
  • Renewable energy will account for almost 80% of the world’s total power generation in 2050.
  • Increased use of renewable energy, combined with technological solutions available to ensure greater flexibility, are cornerstones of the energy transition.
  • Hydropower and hydrogen will continue to grow in importance as emission-free and flexible resources.
  • Energy storage solutions, such as batteries, will be essential to keep balance in a more intermittent, weather-dependent energy system.

 

“Energy security, demand for affordable energy, and the climate crisis all indicate that we should now accelerate the global energy transition. Electrification based on renewable power, and energy efficiency are key pillars,” says Christian Rynning-Tønnesen.

 

If you’d like to learn more about Statkraft’s Low Emissions Scenario, visit their website, here. You can also read the full report by clicking here.

12th January 2023

*The UK Government has recently announced a new ‘Energy Bills Discount Scheme’, which will run from 1st April 2023 – 31st March 2024. Replacing the current ‘Energy Bill Relief Scheme’, it aims to help support businesses with the cost of wholesale energy for an additional 12 months.

You can read our full statement on the recent announcement, here.

__________________________

4th November 2022

We welcome the Government’s announcement of their ‘Energy Bill Relief Scheme’ to support businesses during the current energy crisis. The legislation came into force on 1st November, and you can find the rules, guidance and scheme documents on the Government’s website, here. You can also find the full regulations of the scheme, here.

 

What is the Energy Bill Relief Scheme? 

The Energy Bill Relief Scheme provides a discount on wholesale electricity and gas prices for non-domestic customers, calculated by reference to a supported price set by the government. 

The Government Supported Price has been set at £211/MWh for electricity, though the level of discount will vary for each business depending on their contract type and circumstances.   

The scheme’s discount will be applied to energy usage initially between 1st October 2022 – 31st March 2023. It will apply to fixed contracts agreed on or after 1st December 2021, as well as to deemed, variable and flexible tariffs and contracts.  

 

Eligibility 

The eligibility for the scheme has been defined by The Department of Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) as follows:     

Everyone on a non-domestic contract including:   

  • businesses  
  • voluntary sector organisations, such as charities  
  • public sector organisations such as schools, hospitals and care homes  

who are:   

  • on existing fixed price contracts that were agreed on or after 1st December 2021
  • signing new fixed price contracts  
  • on Deemed/Out of Contract or variable tariffs  
  • on flexible purchase or similar contracts  

If you are on a fixed contract, your discount will be determined by the date you signed your contract. We recommend that you check the date you signed your contract to get an indication of whether you will be eligible for a discount on the electricity you consume between 1st October 2022– 31st March 2023.  

You can view the dates and discounts you may receive on the Government’s website, here. 

If you are eligible, you will not have to take action or apply to the scheme to receive support. We will automatically apply the associated discounts to all eligible customers’ bills for their electricity consumption from 1st October 2022, which will be billed from November onwards.

The Government will review the scheme in the coming months to inform decisions on future support after March 2023, focusing primarily on assisting the most vulnerable non-domestic customers.  

 

Learn more 

We have a range of FAQs on the ‘Energy Bill Relief Scheme’ and the energy market more generally that we continue to update, which you may find helpful during this time: https://www.brytenergy.co.uk/faqs/

You can also read more about the new support for businesses on the Government’s website, here.

The current energy crisis is a key concern for all of us. The UK has never before seen such high and volatile wholesale energy prices. With Russia’s invasion into Ukraine, gas prices have soared and when coupled with a post-Covid increase in demand, as well as electricity shortages in Europe, electricity prices in the UK have been driven up to extreme levels. This is creating unprecedented challenges for many businesses (and their employees) and understandably you may be worried about how you can navigate the upcoming months. 

 

We welcome the Government’s recent announcement of their intent to support business customers with measures to reduce the impact of higher wholesale energy costs initially over the next 6 months. The precise details of the support mechanism for UK businesses have not yet been announced and we have committed to collaborate with the Government and the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) to deliver the plans. We are resolved to ensure that all eligible customers receive the benefit of Government support, and we will contact those affected customers as quickly as possible once the measures are published. Our website will also be kept updated with the latest information.  

 

In the meantime, we’d like to reassure our customers that we’re still available should you need us – you can get in touch with our customer service team at heretohelp@brytenergy.co.uk and one of our team will be happy to help. We’d also like to remind customers that you can use your customer portal to access bills and to submit meter reads. 

 

Whilst we fully appreciate that this may be a very emotional and frustrating situation for you, we ask you to remember that our employees are working hard to try to support you through this crisis and that they too are facing its impacts.

If you like to stay on top of any future energy cost changes that could affect your business, you’ll no doubt already be aware of Ofgem’s Targeted Charging Review (TCR). With the new rules starting to come into effect this April, the TCR will establish a new system by which network owners charge energy customers for the use of the electricity networks in the UK.

 

The changes brought about by the TCR will impact every business differently, so it’s vital for every business to understand how the TCR will affect their bills before they enter into their next electricity contract. Here are the main things you need to know…

WHAT’S HAPPENING AND WHY?

The TCR is an Ofgem-led project that assesses how network charges are set and recovered. Launched in August 2017, the intention behind the TCR was to decide whether the system needed to be reformed to make it fairer. It addressed the concern that the current mechanisms used to recover Distribution Use of System (DUoS) and Transmission Network Use of System (TNUoS) charges could lead to inefficient use of the network and create an adverse effect on consumers. The current Triad system sees half hourly (HH) metered customers charged for electricity transmission costs according to their consumption during the three half-hour periods in Winter when overall demand on the grid is at its peak. Ofgem is concerned that this system distorts the market by encouraging some businesses to shift their consumption to avoid Triad periods and not pay their share towards maintaining the grid year-round.

 

Based on the findings of the TCR, Ofgem has decided to supplement the existing Triad consumption-based system for TNUoS with a banding-based daily charging system that should encourage businesses to manage their demand all year round – not just in winter. DUoS tariffs have always had a fixed daily charge component. But as part of TCR, Ofgem has directed that the way DNOs (Distribution Network Officers) set this charge should also change – moving some of the cost recovery that currently comes through the volume-based rates into the fixed daily charge.

 

The banding for each meter on businesses’ site(s) will be based on their agreed supply capacity (if there has been one agreed) or their Estimated Annual Consumption (EAC) if an agreed supply capacity is not in place. These changes were intended to roll out this April, however Ofgem has proposed a delay in the TNUoS changes until April 2023. A consultation on this is currently awaiting a decision by Ofgem and we’ll be sure to keep you up to date on any developments. The changes to DUoS tariffs are still expected to go live this April.

   

HOW BUSINESSES WILL BE AFFECTED 

For larger businesses able to reduce or shift energy volumes, winter Triad periods have historically provided an opportunity to make savings through flexibility, by reducing consumption during peak periods. Even those who aren’t able to be flexible in their usage can mitigate the impact of Triads by increasing their energy efficiency. Under the new system, Triad avoidance will no longer be possible for many and, where it remains, the benefits will be significantly reduced. This means that businesses who used this method to reduce their TNUos costs might find their annual energy bills could be significantly increased. For businesses previously able to boost generation revenue by exporting energy to the grid at peak times, the reduction of Triads could affect their bottom line and reduce the benefits of having on-site generation. While businesses who participate in grid-balancing Demand Side Response schemes will still be able to benefit from doing so, they will lose out on the additional revenue available during Triad periods.

 

Another consideration is that the cost of Triads is typically spread across bills over 12 months, until the next Triad period. However, for those businesses whose contracts start in the October before the TCR cost mechanism comes into effect, Triad costs will have to be recovered in half the time. Businesses should therefore work these costs into their budgets now.

 

For some, the TCR will mean a bigger energy bill and a need to rebalance the budget in other ways. But large energy users who have previously been unable to consume energy flexibly and have therefore been hit with excessive Triad costs could actually see a reduction in non-commodity costs – and it’s these businesses that must think most carefully before they choose their next contract.

TOTAL TRANSPARENCY FOR OUR CUSTOMERS

Although the TCR deadline has been pushed back for TNUoS, we know that our customers want to prepare for the changes now, so we’re striving to provide certainty where we can (and total transparency where we can’t). DNOs have published their DUoS charges for 2022, including TCR, and TNUoS charges for next April won’t be confirmed until February 2023.

 

At Bryt Energy, we’re trusted by nature, so we’ve come up with a transparent way to accurately price according to what we know now, to provide our customers with as much certainty as we can while recognising that prices may still change slightly. From September 2020 we’ve clearly stated the TCR banded charges into our new contracts in order to give our customers as much visibility of their costs as possible. And because our operations are built to be agile, our prices will always reflect Ofgem’s latest position and advice.

GETTING READY FOR THE TCR

Every business will be affected by the TCR changes differently, so it’s important to identify and prepare for how these changes will impact your organisation. You can do this by:

 

1. Speaking to your electricity supplier

Ask your supplier the following questions to find out how they will account for the TCR changes and how they will affect your bill if you stay with that supplier:

 

  1. Have you included TNUoS costs in my contract or are they passed-through?
  2. What band has been applied to each of my meters?
  3. In what circumstances would you amend TCR rates?
  4. How are you accounting for unknown costs?

 

2. Making the most of your flexible solutions

If you’re currently using technology or solutions to avoid Triad periods and expensive time of use charges, the benefits might be reduced slightly once we switch to a fixed-rate charge, but they won’t disappear. Now is the time to consider how you use these solutions to optimise your usage more continuously and boost your revenue in other ways. For example, organisations opting for our optimisation solutions are able to offset 20% of their energy spend by allowing us to subtly tweak their consumption (within agreed limits) in line with system needs, without impacting their operations. You can learn more about the benefits of optimisation in our blog, here.

 

If you have any questions around TCR or how we’re supporting our customers through the changes, please get in touch with our team at heretohelp@brytenergy.co.uk.

If you like to stay on top of any future energy cost changes that could affect your business, you’ll no doubt already be aware of Ofgem’s Targeted Charging Review (TCR). With the new rules due to come into effect in April 2022, the TCR will establish a new system by which network owners charge energy customers for the use of the electricity networks in the UK.

 

The changes brought about by the TCR will impact every business differently, so it’s vital for every business to understand how the TCR will affect their bills before they enter into their next electricity contract. Here are the main things you need to know…   

WHAT’S HAPPENING AND WHY?

The TCR is an Ofgem-led project that assesses how network charges are set and recovered. Launched in August 2017, the intention behind the TCR was to decide whether the system needed to be reformed to make it fairer. It addressed the concern that the current mechanisms used to recover Distribution Use of System (DUoS) and Transmission Network Use of System (TNUoS) charges could lead to inefficient use of the network and create an adverse effect on consumers. The current Triad system sees half hourly (HH) metered customers charged for electricity transmission costs according to their consumption during the three half-hour periods in Winter when overall demand on the grid is at its peak. Ofgem is concerned that this system distorts the market by encouraging some businesses to shift their consumption to avoid Triad periods and not pay their share towards maintaining the grid year-round.

 

Based on the findings of the TCR, Ofgem has decided to supplement the existing Triad consumption-based system for TNUoS with a banding-based daily charging system that should encourage businesses to manage their demand all year round – not just in winter. Distribution Use of System (DUoS) tariffs have always had a fixed daily charge component. But as part of TCR, Ofgem has directed that the way DNOs (Distribution Network Officers) set this charge should also change – moving some of the cost recovery that currently comes through the volume-based rates into the fixed daily charge.

 

The banding for each meter on businesses’ site(s) will be based on their agreed supply capacity (if there has been one agreed) or their Estimated Annual Consumption (EAC), if an agreed supply capacity is not in place. These changes were intended to roll out in April 2022, however Ofgem is now proposing a delay in the TNUoS changes until April 2023. A consultation on this is currently in progress and a decision will be made in August; we’ll be sure to keep you up to date on any developments. The changes to DUoS tariffs are expected to still go live in April 2022.

HOW BUSINESSES WILL BE AFFECTED 

For larger businesses able to reduce or shift energy volumes, winter Triad periods have historically provided an opportunity to make savings through flexibility by reducing consumption during peak periods. Even those who aren’t able to be flexible in their usage can mitigate the impact of Triads by increasing their energy efficiency. Under the new system, Triad avoidance will no longer be possible for many and, where it remains, the benefits will be significantly reduced. This means that businesses who used this method to reduce their TNUos costs might find their annual energy bills could be significantly increased. For businesses previously able to boost generation revenue by exporting energy to the grid at peak times, the reduction of Triads could affect their bottom line and reduce the benefits of having on-site generation. While businesses who participate in grid-balancing Demand Side Response schemes will still be able to benefit from doing so, they will lose out on the additional revenue available during Triad periods.

 

Another consideration is that the cost of Triads is typically spread across bills over 12 months, until the next Triad period. However, for those businesses whose contracts start in the October before the TCR cost mechanism comes into effect, Triad costs will have to be recovered in half the time. Businesses should therefore work these costs into their budgets now.

 

For some, the TCR will mean a bigger energy bill and a need to rebalance the budget in other ways. But large energy users who have previously been unable to consume energy flexibly and have therefore been hit with excessive Triad costs could actually see a reduction in non-commodity costs – and it’s these businesses that must think most carefully before they choose their next contract.

TOTAL TRANSPARENCY FOR OUR CUSTOMERS

Although the TCR deadline has been pushed back, we know that our customers want to prepare for the changes now, so we’re striving to provide certainty where we can (and total transparency where we can’t). DNOs have published their DUoS charges for 2022, and TNUoS charges are still to be confirmed. Whilst there might be some delays to this roll out, one certainty is that every supplier will pass these costs through to their customers differently. For example, some suppliers are building in risk premiums or change clauses to protect themselves from any potential changes to the current prices. This means customers will need to think about which supplier’s method will work best for their business.

 

Businesses who aren’t able to be flexible at peak times, and could therefore benefit as a result of the TCR, should look carefully at the way their supplier is proposing to manage the ‘risk’ related to the TCR – as this risk will not apply to them. If they opt for a contract in which the supplier has included a significant risk premium, for example, then they will miss out on the savings they could have made and could find that they’re paying much more than they need to be for their electricity.

 

At Bryt Energy, we’re trusted by nature, so we’ve come up with a transparent way to accurately price according to what we know now, to provide our customers with as much certainty as we can while recognising that prices may still change slightly. From September 2020 we’ve clearly stated the TCR banded charges into our new contracts in order to give our customers as much visibility of their costs as possible. And because our operations are built to be agile, our prices will always reflect Ofgem’s latest position and advice.

GETTING READY FOR THE TCR

Every business will be affected by the TCR changes differently, so it’s important to identify and prepare for how these changes will affect your organisation. You can do this by:

 

1. Speaking to your electricity supplier

Ask your supplier the following questions to find out how they will account for the TCR changes and how they will affect your bill if you stay with that supplier:

 

  1. Have you included TNUoS costs in your contract or are they passed-through?
  2. What band has been applied to each of my meters?
  3. In what circumstances would you amend TCR rates?
  4. How are you accounting for unknown costs?

 

2. Making the most of your flexible solutions

If you’re currently using technology or solutions to avoid Triad periods and expensive time of use charges, the benefits might be reduced slightly once we switch to a fixed-rate charge, but they won’t disappear. Now is the time to consider how you use these solutions to optimise your usage 24/7 and boost your revenue in other ways.

 

To learn more about TCR and how we’re supporting our customers through the changes, please contact us on heretohelp@brytenergy.co.uk.

Please note that Bryt Energy is no longer a carbon neutral organisation. Instead we have decided to focus on robust carbon emissions reduction targets, which have been validated by the globally recognised Science Based Target initiative (SBTi). By setting our targets using the most up-to-date climate science, we are ensuring we are playing our part in global action to tackle climate change and are accountable for reducing our emissions alongside a verifiable pathway. To learn more about our targets, you can visit page 16 of our 2023 Bryt by Nature report, here.

_________________________________________________

Here at Bryt Energy, we’re proud to announce that we were the fastest growing business electricity supplier in Britain in 2020*! 

We saw impressive organic growth in electricity volume in 2020 compared to 2019*, suggesting that carbon reduction remains a priority for businesses, despite recent COVID challenges. This is an encouraging sign that businesses are getting behind the UK’s commitment to a green recovery.   

BUSINESSES COMMITTED TO DECARBONISATION 

With business decarbonisation critical to meeting the UK’s goal to reach net zero emissions by 2050, organisations are increasingly choosing energy partners that can help them to meet their carbon reduction targets.   

 

Our Managing Director, Ian Brothwell, said: “Making the switch to renewable electricity is now seen as the first step for businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint, and Bryt Energy’s growth demonstrates the increasing demand for electricity from zero carbon, 100% natural sources, such as solar, wind and hydro power. At a time when many businesses are facing increased pressure due to COVID-19, supporting their sustainability claims with credible action (such as making the switch to a renewable supply) demonstrates a clear commitment to a low carbon future.  

 

“It’s been a challenging year and I’m proud of how the Bryt Energy Team has adapted to working from home to achieve such a fantastic result. Our growth over the last 12 months has really been a testament to the passion of the Team, who have gone above and beyond to support both new and existing customers throughout the pandemic. This is reflected by our average customer satisfaction rating of 4.9/5 during this time+.”  

SUSTAINABLE BY NATURE 

As part of our own sustainability plans, we became a carbon neutral^ business in 2020 and have committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2025 through our ‘Bryt By Nature’ programme. We’ve also committed to several of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as part of this.   

 

Ian Brothwell continues: “We pride ourselves on practicing what we preach – we know that sustainability is about more than just the environment – it’s about ensuring a positive impact on our whole sphere of influence. With the government setting ambitious targets for UK generation of renewable electricity, this year will be a crucial one for businesses to put in place strong sustainability strategies. That is why we are looking forward to working with more like-minded customers to help turn their ambitions into actions.”  

GET SUPPORT WITH YOUR SUSTAINABILITY JOURNEY 

If you’d like to talk with one of our friendly experts about your own sustainability journey, please call us on 0330 053 8620 or email  heretohelp@brytenergy.co.uk.

 

*Organic growth only, based on Bryt Energy’s 2020 share of national settled electricity volumes in Great Britain compared to 2019 share, versus other business-only suppliers.

 

+based upon all customer responses to all routine satisfaction surveys undertaken by Bryt Energy between April 2020 – May 2021. 

 

^Carbon neutral is defined by Bryt Energy as Scope 1, 2 & 3 for the categories of gas, electricity, water, waste and business travel. The scope 1, 2 & 3 carbon emissions for 2016-2019 were 106.64 tonnes and therefore 110 tonnes of carbon credits from the Bokhol Solar project were retired on behalf of Bryt Energy by EcoAct in August 2020.  

WHY WE’RE VOLUNTARILY REPORTING UNDER SECR

Bryt Energy isn’t one of the almost 12,000 companies legally required to report under the Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) scheme – but we have just published a voluntary report anyway. And we think more businesses could benefit from voluntarily reporting, too.

 

When you’re working within a busy organisation, choosing to report under an energy reporting scheme like SECR when you’re not required to may seem like extra work. But if your organisation is serious about improving its sustainability, voluntary reporting can help you to get the most out of your efforts.

 

If you’re looking at reporting under SECR, here’s what you need to know:

WHAT IS SECR?

The Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting scheme, also known as SECR, is a relatively new energy efficiency reporting scheme that first came into force in April 2019. It was designed to replace the Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC) Energy Efficiency Scheme, which many businesses found complex, with a simpler reporting process. SECR also extends energy reporting obligations to far more businesses than the CRC did – around 11,900 businesses must now report under SECR, whereas only 4,000 reported under the CRC.

 

By expanding the number of businesses required to comply with SECR, the Government is striving to encourage more companies to calculate their carbon footprint. Companies must submit their SECR report within their annual Director’s Report, which means that their sustainability progress can be analysed by their stakeholders, staff and customers. This is intended to encourage them to not only understand their carbon emissions, but also take action to reduce them.

WHO’S AFFECTED BY SECR?

SECR applies to all UK quoted companies, as well as UK registered businesses that meet two or more* of the following criteria within the financial year that they are reporting:

 

a) 250 employees or more

b) £36m turnover or more

c) Balance sheet total of £18m or more

 

*There are some exemptions to this, and you can read the full government guidance, here.

REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

Every company must report their Scope 1 and 2 emissions, whilst unquoted companies are also required to report on their emissions from business travel in Scope 3. These are:

 

Scope 1 – includes emissions from activities owned or controlled by your company that directly release emissions into the atmosphere, e.g. the gas used to heat your building.

 

Scope 2 – covers your indirect emissions from the generation of purchased electricity.

 

Scope 3 – includes emissions which you do not have direct control over, but that you can influence, for instance through your supply chain or the stakeholders you work with. An example of Scope 3 would be the emissions associated with your employees commuting to work.

 

Your SECR report must also include commentary on the energy efficiency measures you have implemented within the reporting period, as well as your methodology for calculating your emissions.

CHOOSING AN INTENSITY RATIO

You will also need to provide at least one intensity ratio, which expresses your annual emissions in relation to a standard business metric, such as your turnover or number of full time employees. At Bryt, we chose four intensity ratios to track our performance as we grow, and we’ve explained why below. We report in kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalent emitted per year (kgCO2e):

  • GWh of electricity supplied to our customers – an industry specific measure that is most relevant to our business output.
  • M2 of office space that we occupy – allows us to compare our performance to other companies in the service sector.
  • Million pounds of turnover – will show how we’re decoupling our carbon emissions from our economic growth; a key principle of decarbonising our economy.
  • Full Time Employees – allows us to compare our performance with a wider number of companies beyond the energy sector.
BENEFITS OF REPORTING

By reporting under SECR, your company could benefit in the following ways:

1. Identify areas for improvement

If you can’t measure it, you can’t improve it. You can only begin to effectively reduce your emissions once you are accurately tracking your carbon emissions. At Bryt, for example, we learnt that Scope 3 business travel is our largest area of emissions – and now we’re taking actions to address that.

 

2. Focus on energy efficiency

SECR compliance requires you to report on the actions your organisation has taken to improve its energy efficiency, year-on-year. This should encourage you to take action to ensure you’re making continual progress towards greater sustainability.

 

3. Engage your team in your sustainability efforts

Your SECR report must include an intensity ratio that’s appropriate for your industry – this makes your report much easier for stakeholders, staff and customers to understand and engage with, and creates benchmarks to compare to other businesses’ efforts to reduce their carbon emissions.

WHY WE’RE LEADING THE WAY

While SECR gives companies a simpler approach to energy reporting, it still involves time and resources, so you might be wondering why Bryt has chosen to undertake this additional work voluntarily?

 

Well, we want to be more than just a supplier – we want to be able to help our customers along their sustainability journeys. It wasn’t easy for us to produce our SECR report. For example, it was difficult for us to get some of the key data we needed because we share our offices with other businesses. But by going through the exercise of producing and publishing our report voluntarily, we can better understand the challenges involved and provide better support to our customers that are required to report under SECR.

 

We’re also producing our report because we simply believe it’s the right thing to do. SECR provides businesses of all shapes, sizes and sectors with a universal template for transparently reporting their progress, making it easier to compare organisations’ efforts to reduce their carbon emissions.

 

As this is our first SECR report, we have used the template provided by the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS). We’re keen to learn along the way, so we’re looking forward to seeing more companies’ reports and getting to grips with what best practice will look like.

READ OUR SECR REPORT

Interested in reporting under SECR, or just curious about what’s involved? We’ve already done all the hard work – and now our report is complete! So if you’re wondering what a final SECR report looks like, you can check out our first one here.

 

We always welcome feedback, so if you have any thoughts on our first SECR report, get in touch with us at marketing@brytenergy.co.uk.

Sources

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/environmental-reporting-guidelines-including-mandatory-greenhouse-gas-emissions-reporting-guidance

Health and beauty giant, A.S. Watson, owner of Superdrug, The Perfume Shop and Savers, have recently confirmed they will be extending their zero carbon, 100% renewable electricity supply contract by 12 months, after celebrating a year and a half since switching to us.

Since 1st April 2019, all 1400 retail sites nationwide have been supplied with zero carbon, 100% renewable electricity, sourced solely from Wind, Hydro and Solar power. In the first 12 months on supply, A.S. Watson saved over 19,000 tonnes of CO2, the equivalent of filling Wembley Stadium with CO2 almost three times! In addition, the 12-month contract extension strengthens our growing partnership with A.S. Watson.

 

A.S. Watson had been looking to gain an understanding of their energy usage across their retail portfolio, as well as reduce their carbon footprint as part of their sustainability and corporate social responsibility programme. Offering them a unique package of renewable electricity, with the opportunity to install solar and storage technology, optimisation controls and smart data portfolio analytics, we became the ideal choice of partner. Having the trust in our ability to take on and manage the entire site portfolio in a complex and dynamic market was a key factor in the final decision making for A.S. Watson.

 

Our Managing Director, Ian Brothwell, said: “We are continuing to develop a long-term partnership with A.S. Watson to provide retail portfolio solutions that allow them to understand, monitor and reduce their consumption, work more sustainably and future-proof their energy supply. The switch demonstrates their confidence in Bryt Energy and, more broadly, the market’s move to purchasing from renewable sources.”

 

Nigel Duxbury, Property Director at A.S. Watson UK, said: “Being a responsible retailer is vitally important for us and our customers, and we are pleased to use renewable energy in our stores. This is a change which has a positive impact on the environment, being made across our business to be more sustainable.”

 

 

For more information on how we can support your business on its carbon-reducing journey, get in touch at heretohelp@brytenergy.co.uk or on 0330 053 8620. You can also follow us at:

 

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/bryt-energy/

Twitter – https://twitter.com/BrytEnergy

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/brytenergy/

With more choices than ever, car owners are increasingly choosing the sustainable option and going Electric. However, despite their critical role in reducing emissions and reaching net zero, electric vehicles (EV) numbers are still relatively low compared to those fuelled with petrol or diesel1.

 

We know that during the height of the current pandemic, human activity slowed to reduce the spread of coronavirus, emissions dropped, and nature bounced back2. Inevitably these effects are likely to be temporary when the world returns to the new normal, and EV’s may offer a realistic way to rebuild whilst reducing travel emissions more permanently.

 

As we, thankfully, see a return to normality we can begin to review current behaviours and look to the future. Could a boost to EV’s be part of the sustainable road to recovery following COVID-19?

 

To find out more, we caught up with our colleagues at Grønn Kontakt (also part of the Statkraft family) to see what an EV future might look like. Anthony Hinde is Managing Director at Grønn Kontakt.

 

So Anthony, what led you to choose an EV? And what do you think an EV future would look like?

“EV’s are a key part of a more sustainable and healthier future. The WHO estimates that pollution is responsible for an estimated 4.2 million deaths globally per year3, with up to 36,000 of these within the UK alone4, and vehicle emissions are a significant part of this. In fact, the UK transport sector is responsible for 28% of UK CO2 emissions5. Provided EV’s are charged using a renewable electricity supply, they can dramatically reduce pollution, particularly for urban areas.

 

For me, this is just so incredibly important. You may be familiar with the case of 9-year-old Ella Kissi-Debrah in 2013? She died, potentially as a result of unlawful levels of air pollution along her walk to school6. And this isn’t an isolated incident – Unicef’s Toxic School Run report really highlights the particular risks posed to children, with an estimated 11,000 new daily child-asthma cases worldwide7. If we can prevent this, surely, we must?

 

It’s also important to remember that emissions pose threats beyond the immediate impact on human health; the links between emissions, increasing global temperatures and climate change are well known. Climate change may already be responsible for 150,000 deaths a year alongside increasing biodiversity loss8. With ethical sourcing and a Circular Economy approach, EV’s can reduce pollution across the whole supply chain. And, with reduced fossil fuel use, chances of damaging leaks or spills are also lessened9.

 

One other benefit that has been particularly highlighted recently is the potential reduction in noise pollution, as EV’s are quieter than petrol and diesel cars. With the recent reduction in traffic due to COVID-19, the world has been quieter – I’ve heard more birdsong in the last few months than in several years! With more EV’s, less traffic noise from vehicles could become the norm.”

 

As an EV owner, what can you tell us about the experience of driving one?

“For me, the biggest part of the experience is that my driving feels guilt-free. Driving is now a pleasure without a caveat and recharging without carcinogenic fumes and traces on pump nozzles is a much more pleasant experience than traditional re-fuelling!

 

Otherwise, EV’s are quiet and they accelerate quicker. Unless on a racetrack, it doesn’t realistically matter how fast your car can go, but how quickly it can get there really affects the driving experience – no more moving up gears! On average, an EV would only need to be charged once a week. Mine charges from 0% to 80% in about 40 minutes with a regular rapid 50kw DC charger, and I’ve found that I can easily do this whilst out shopping!”

 

So how might EV’s and charging points affect businesses? Are there any revenue opportunities?

“EV’s and charging points offer a great opportunity for businesses! With the right renewable electricity supply, converting your fleet to electric can immediately reduce your carbon footprint. Not only would this make your business more compliant with emissions regulations, but being sustainable is good for revenue, operational efficiency, and even stock value10.

 

Having an EV charge point on-site can really boost footfall and how long customers stay, meaning more shopping, more meals, more entertainment, and increased revenue. It’s also a great way to create added value for your customers. Charging points can be a real draw for desirable clients, offering a chance for them to charge their cars or fleets whilst on-site – a potential advantage over competitors.

 

Charge points are also likely to affect employee retention. Increasingly, employees are finding they like to work for organisations they feel are doing the right thing and, as EV’s become more popular, more employees may expect charging facilities. Offering this is a great chance to attract and retain motivated and high-performing individuals.”

 

There are clearly many benefits to EV’s, but the uptake has so far been slow. What do you feel are the main barriers?

“In my opinion, the biggest barriers to EV uptake seems to be the existing misconceptions around their cost and convenience, and the, very human, reluctance to change. However, these misconceptions are increasingly being recognised as no longer accurate.

 

Misconception 1: They’re inconvenient and difficult to charge.

As I said (and despite widespread belief), charging is not required every day and, for average users, is likely to only be once a week. Whilst there are some areas with less charging points such as Wales and the North East, new points are frequently added and plans for more charge-points were outlined in this year’s budget11. And, as popularity increases, so will pressure upon businesses to offer these facilities to visitors and employees.

 

For any businesses interested in installing a charge point, understanding your users’ needs and optimising for their convenience will be key to getting the full benefits. With 3 primary types of charger, rapid, fast and slow available, providers will need to understand whether a faster charger for shorter client visits, or a slower one for employees (whose cars can be charged across the day), is most suitable.

 

And there is grant support available to encourage charge-point installation and make EV’s more accessible, including:

 

Misconception 2: They’re expensive

Undeniably, many EV’s are currently on the pricier side initially and this can, understandably, deter many. However, to really understand their cost compared to a petrol or diesel car you need to look at the total cost of ownership (TCO). This includes initial purchase, repairs and maintenance, insurance, and energy (fuel or electricity), and when all of these are taken into account, even with the higher purchase price, the TCO of EVs is extremely competitive to that of petrol or diesel vehicles.

 

Miles Per Pound (MPP) for EV’s can be up to 3 times cheaper than that of regular cars, and pure EV’s are exempt from road tax costs12. And further savings are now possible with changes to the Business In Kind (BIK) tax applicable for company cars. This rewards EV use but penalises more polluting cars13.

 

Other costs can also be less. Whilst insurers are wary of more expensive parts (primarily the batteries) with fewer moving parts (20 compared to 2000), EV services are cheaper and less frequent.

 

And EV’s retain their value well, with batteries capable of being reused for Solar PV14 alongside generation projects. This successful implementation of a Circular Economy keeps EV value high as well as maximising resources.

 

It is also important to remember that there will be new restrictions for petrol, diesel, and hybrid cars due by 203515. This is likely to make EV’s a much more economical option over the next few years, avoiding potential financial penalties.”

 

SUMMARY

“With the country looking to boost the economy post Covid-19, I really believe that EV’s will play a key part in ‘rebuilding better’ and creating a more sustainable, healthier future. They offer a great opportunity for businesses to become more resilient and stand out from competition in an increasingly difficult marketplace. And, when combined with the right renewable electricity supply, they offer a real chance to reduce air pollution and meet those net zero carbon targets, meaning you can boost your business whilst doing the right thing for the future.”

 

 

Bryt Energy and Grønn Kontakt are both part of the Statkraft Group, a leading international hydropower company and Europe’s largest generator of renewable energy.

 

Bryt Energy, part of the Statkraft Group, is a passionate, future-focused electricity company, on a mission to take their community on a carbon-reducing journey.  Bryt Energy’s power is zero carbon and 100% renewable, using only Wind, Hydro and Solar energy sources to power British businesses. Whether it be on-site generation, battery storage or optimisation controls, Bryt Energy are at the forefront of the clean energy technology revolution with solutions that maximise value from customers’ electricity supply contracts.

 

Grønn Kontakt is an electric vehicle charging company that offer public and workplace EV charging. From the end of April 2021, Gronn Kontakt will become Mer. Mer is the consolidation of Statkraft’s EV charging companies across Europe under one new identity which will reflect their vision and sustainable background.

 

To find out how we could help your business, get in touch at 0330 053 8620 or heretohelp@brytenergy.co.uk.

Sources

1. https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/electric-car-sales-sales-diesel-brexit-business-a9271041.html

2. https://www.brytenergy.co.uk/knowledge-hub/learnings-from-covid-19-a-glimpse-into-a-low-carbon-future/

3. https://www.who.int/health-topics/air-pollution#tab=tab_1

4. https://www.gov.uk/government/news/public-health-england-publishes-air-pollution-evidence-review

5. https://eandt.theiet.org/content/articles/2020/02/uk-emissions-fall-as-coal-power-shut-off-date-brought-forward/

6. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-48132490

7. https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2019/apr/10/vehicle-pollution-results-in-4m-child-asthma-cases-a-year

8. https://www.who.int/heli/risks/climate/climatechange/en/

9. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-53831687

10. https://www.brytenergy.co.uk/knowledge-hub/how-zero-carbon-electricity-can-help-you-win-more-business/

11. https://www.brytenergy.co.uk/knowledge-hub/uk-budget-2020-looking-to-a-more-sustainable-future-in-an-uncertain-present/

12. https://www.motoringresearch.com/car-news/electric-cars-cheaper-to-run/

13. https://www.whatcar.com/advice/owning/company-car-tax-bands/n1255

14. https://www.pv-magazine.com/2020/05/25/used-ev-batteries-for-large-scale-solar-energy-storage/

15. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-51366123

We’re delighted to be collaborating with Aston University’s Low Carbon SMEs programme to provide 3, 30-minute webinars beginning on the 8th September.

Offering insight and tips on electricity management, our Head of SME Sales, Nick Lailey, will discuss electricity bills, electricity consumption, efficiency and reducing costs, and how a renewable supply can boost your business.

 

Low Carbon SMEs will also be providing information on the grant funding and free diagnostic support available to Midlands businesses. This is a fantastic resource for any independent business interested in understanding their electricity, reducing costs, and becoming more sustainable. 

WEBINAR TOPICS AND DATES:
08/09/2020 – UNDERSTANDING YOUR ELECTRICITY BILL:

What do the charges on your invoice mean and how can you manage these to reduce costs and become more efficient?  

 

15/09/2020 – UNDERSTANDING YOUR ELECTRICITY USAGE:  

How can you optimise your energy usage? 

 

22/09/2020 – HOW A RENEWABLE SUPPLY CAN BOOST YOUR BUSINESS: 

What is renewable energy, what options are there, and which one might suit your business? And how can it boost your business? 

 

You can find out more about the webinars and sign-up, here.   

LOW CARBON SMES

Aston University’s Low Carbon SMEs Programme supports energy-intensive industries to reduce their carbon footprint, energy costs and improve profitability. The project is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and is open to small & medium sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Greater Birmingham & Solihull and Black Country regions.  

 

They provide: 

  • Access to energy efficiency capital grants of up to £6000 (match-funded)
  • Free on-site energy efficiency survey
  • Cutting-edge collaboration opportunities with Aston University
  • Workshops/Webinars sharing best practise

     

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