The rise in energy prices is prompting businesses across the South West to consider installing their own renewable energy, such as solar panels and wind turbines, according to property specialist Robert Smith from Bruton Knowles in Gloucester.
Energy is now a significant cost following price hikes of 10.4 per cent by npower, 9.2 per cent by British Gas and 4.5 per cent by Co-op energy.
Said Mr Smith: “Investing in renewable energy used to be seen as something quirky and nice to do. Now it makes sound business sense to consider it. Investing in renewables gives companies the opportunity to protect themselves against the rising cost of energy and assists in creating the right mix of energy production the UK needs to invest in.”
Robert Smith said press reports associating this year’s increases to the imposition of Green Taxes were also interesting.
He said: “It is worth looking at this in more detail. The hike in price rises is mostly down to the rising costs in wholesale energy prices and investment in the grid. In addition we should remember that some of the green taxes go to make up energy saving measures that are designed to benefit the less well-off and older.
“We need to be clear that one of the best ways to fight future energy bill rises is to invest in renewable and energy efficiency in order to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. The renewable energy argument makes even more sense when you put it into context with our coal fired power stations which are nearing the end of their useful life. “
