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How to Protect Your Business from Rising Water Bills

wasting water

Energy regulator Ofwat announced an increase of 3.5% in water prices in 2012, which will raise the average household bill to £388 a year. Of course, this will also heavily impact the industrial sector, and businesses will watch their overhead costs inflate amid an already troubling recession.  The levels of cost increase will vary: Thames Water will increase its rates by 5.5%,  while Wessex Water customers will  see their average bill reaches a huge £478 a year – the highest in the country.

Why Have Water Prices Increased?

According to the water companies, inflation is the driving force that’s created these price hikes. If you think you’ve seen the worst of it however, you’d be wrong. By 2016, water is set to increase in price by 50%. Ofwat has supported this cost rise because it believes the higher pricetag is necessary to fund a £25bn investment in the water network.

Taking Action against Rising Water Bills

So, what can a company do to offset this cost increase? Unfortunately, most businesses must buy from the water supplier in their area. In light of this, companies are being advised to make as many savings as they can within the workplace. By reviewing water consumption practices (as well as monitoring your statement for potential overcharges), each business can dramatically reduce bills.

  • Many energy consultancies can help you audit your water bills to look for discrepancies; they won’t even charge you for the task, but will take their fee from a percentage of the money they save the company.
  • This same audit consultancy can highlight any efficiency improvements your business can make to the current system at large. Ask the professional representative to check for leaks and recommend ways to waste less water within the building. Simple changes, such as recycling water, can reduce consumption – and your overhead costs – vastly.
  • Invite employees to get excited about saving water, and encourage staff members to adopt a green approach to energy consumption. If you notice the usage of resources dropping considerably after this campaign, celebrate by rewarding your staff.
  • To prudently approach water savings, it’s advisable to invest in water saving technology, as there will be further price rises in the future. Urinal cistern controls and natural groundwater sources, such as boreholes, can help keep costs down. Over a number of years, any small changes can make a huge impact on your overhead bills.

This post was sponsored by ENER-G energy consultants. They are specialists in providing an evaluation of your site to then suggest a solution which will offer the greatest benefit in terms of investment and carbon reduction.

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