With gas and electricity prices having risen so much over the last three years, one of the best ways for small businesses to save money on their energy bills is to take some simple energy efficiency measures. 

The following tips apply to all small businesses:

• Use only the light you need – turning off lights in empty rooms and corridors can save up to 15% on your lighting bill.
• Don't heat unused space, and set the thermostat at 19°C – costs rise by 8% for every 1°C increase.
• If you can't measure it, you can't manage it – check your gas and electricity consumption regularly, and that your bills relate to what you actually use, rather than an estimate.
  

More information on how to be energy efficient can be found on the Carbon Trust website.