Any business entity needs energy. So, even if you are running a non-profit organization, like a charity, a business energy supplier is top of your concerns.
You need an office to work on your advocacies. You will also need to rent or buy utilities.
There is also the need to have a team work with you in completing your goals. In addition, you will perform basic admin tasks to sustain the group’s effort. So with that said, every penny counts for your non-profit organization.
You must maintain minimal expenses. It is possible when you use a business energy comparison tool to find out how to save on utilities.
It is the quickest way to start saving on your utility costs. So, to help you learn the ropes around such tools, there are energy specialists who can assist. Read on to learn more.
How Your Charity Can Get Cheaper Energy Bills
A survey said that nine out of 10 charities in the UK have concerns about energy price hikes. Some also report on expenses which soared by 300% to 500%. These issues pose a big challenge for the voluntary industry.
Charities belong to that category and often lack funds. But energy suppliers treat them like a business in terms of utility bills. To help charities, business energy specialists assist them how to manage such supplies.
Avail of reduced rates.
More than 200,000 charities registered in the UK can benefit from lower energy prices. If your charity has an income of less than £5,000, you qualify for the reduced rate.
You are also eligible if your monthly energy consumption is lower than 1,000 kWh of electricity or 4,397 kWh of gas.
Make the most of VAT exemptions.
Non-profit agencies have VAT exemptions. Your charity can enjoy a 15% cut on energy VAT.
It is given that your agency doesn’t use public utilities for business purposes. The rule is that your group’s non-business activities record below 60% of your total usage.
Claim VAT relief.
To get VAT relief, present evidence that you are a charity. Provide a written declaration that your charity is eligible for VAT relief. Submit your eligibility declaration or certificate to your energy supplier.
Cash in on the Climate Change Levy (CCL) discount.
CCL offers discounts that can reduce energy costs by 5%. You can avail of this if you meet the VAT exemption requirements. Then, commit to making energy-efficient improvements in your charity.
Claim back VAT overpayments.
When you check your recent bill and find an overpayment, you should claim it back. Contact your energy supplier and file a VAT declaration form. Visit the government website for instructions on how you can reclaim the VAT.
Review your latest billing.
Charities often overlook VAT reductions and rebates. Go over your current billing for overcharges and exemptions. Check with your energy supplier to see if they are up-to-date in applying the discounts to your bill.
Be energy-efficient.
Use energy in an efficient manner to improve your impact on the environment. Start with installing lighting upgrades, control systems, and other energy-efficient solutions. Avoid the use of too much energy during peak hours.
Reduce your carbon footprint.
Cut the use of your utilities to lessen your carbon footprint. Carry out environmental audits to find out if you need to improve your carbon footprint.
Once you find out where to improve, make a plan for your zero-carbon effort. You must submit your plan for review. If the energy authorities in your State find out your agency has a desirable green-business platform, then yu are eligible for the VAT exemption.
Invest in a smart meter.
A smart meter will help you identify wastage. Install a smart meter so you can track your usage with accurate readings. Use the data from the device to monitor your daily and hourly consumption.
Promote an environmentally-conscious workplace.
Encourage your colleagues to switch to activities that are beneficial to the environment. Switch to a paperless office, reduce by reusing, and start a recycling program. You can also support green vendors, conserve human energy, and organize sustainable committees.
Use energy efficiency grants for charities.
Some groups offer funding for charities to help them cut energy bills. Charities across the UK can use grants of up to £50,000 to become energy-efficient. You can search online to find more facts about energy-saving grants in your area.
How the Government Helps Charities Manage Business Energy Costs
Business energy specialists are not alone in helping charities with their energy expenses. The government launched the Energy Bill Relief Scheme to help charities cut costs.
The goal is to protect non-profit groups hit by skyrocketing energy rates.
The scheme features a Supported Wholesale Price.
It is equal to the Energy Price Guarantee for households. In this program, charities get a discount on wholesale gas and electricity rates.
The level of price decrease will depend on contract type and other circumstances. This is when your energy comparison tool comes to the rescue. So, it is crucial that you take a step to learn how to use it.
Why Getting a Business Energy Specialist Matters
One way to manage your energy sources is with a business energy specialist. If you partner with one that can help your charity gain more benefits.
With an expert to work with, you can find a business supplier that fits your bill within minutes.
You must find the right deal through a business comparison tool. The reason is that the savings potential on your bill can reach up to 45%. It also uses a method that will assist you in securing the best contract.
Likewise, a business energy specialist helps your charity become efficient. This is vital because UK laws require charities and businesses to comply. A specialist will be able to assist your charity in this area.
The UK government has plans to make stricter regulations for businesses. It will then oblige establishments to adhere to operational energy ratings. By acting now, you can avoid facing severe financial consequences.
Final Thoughts
Charities help people overcome crises. Thus, when facing an energy crisis, your agency must have the tools to let you overcome it.
It is only sensible that your organization survives the rising costs of energy. To do this, let experts in the field assist you. They will help you take advantage of the savings offered to your groups, and your charity can create an energy-efficient system that will serve you well in the future.
Always keep a close eye on your energy bills. Doing so will help you save money that you can direct instead to your charity.