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Meters 'would help SMEs cut emissions'

Published On 16 May 2007 at 08:49:46

An advanced metering system could be used by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UK to reduce their costs and impact on the environment, a new report suggests.

The Carbon Trust said that installing these advanced meters in SMEs in the country could potentially save the UK economy £300 million per year, as well as 2.5 million tonnes of CO2.

A three-year trial of the system found that the typical SME could identify carbon savings of 12 per cent by using one of the meters. It could also help to reduce each business' emissions by five per cent.

This cut in emissions brought about a significant financial saving for the SME - on average over £1,000 a year on their energy bills.

"Our trial has shown that advanced meters can help businesses save money and also deliver significant carbon savings for the UK," explained Tom Delay, chief executive of the Carbon Trust.

Business groups also welcomed the findings. Gareth Elliott, policy adviser at the British Chambers of Commerce, commented: "Small and medium-sized businesses recognise the environmental challenges yet need assistance to meet them in a cost-effective manner.

"This is a step in the right direction."

The UK government believes that businesses in the country could make total savings worth £1.8 billion by implementing energy-saving measures.

 

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