Action Guide: How small businesses can boost productivity with smart choices

26 February 2025

Written by the Innovation Lab

At Be the Business, our mission is clear: to improve productivity for small and midsize businesses across the UK. With the challenges of rising costs, climate change, and the demand for efficiency, even small changes can create a big impact on your business's performance. One such change is embracing smart meters—a simple yet powerful tool to help you control energy usage, cut costs, and boost sustainability. We’ve teamed up with Smart Energy GB to find out more. 

This action guide explores how installing a smart meter can drive productivity gains and improve your business’s bottom line. 

Why focus on energy efficiency? 

Managing costs is one of the top priorities for small business owners. Recent research commissioned by Smart Energy GB revealed: 

• 37% of business owners cite energy costs as a key concern. 

•  56% are more worried about energy costs this year than last. 

• 33% say reviewing business costs is a priority for the next 12 months. 

Energy expenses don’t just impact your cash flow—they’re also tied to your carbon footprint. By managing energy more efficiently, you can achieve two critical goals: financial savings and sustainability gains. 

What is a smart meter? 

A smart meter is the next generation of gas and electricity meters. It replaces traditional meters, offering near real-time tracking of your energy usage. Here’s why this is important for productivity: 

Accurate billing 

1. No more estimated bills or manual meter readings. 

2. You’ll only pay for the energy you use, making cash flow management easier. 

3. Save time by eliminating one more task from your to-do list. 

Control over energy use 

1. Gain detailed insights into how and when your business uses energy. 

2. Identify opportunities to cut unnecessary costs. 

3. Monitor energy efficiency efforts and track savings over time. 

Access to usage data 

1. Request up to 12 months of energy usage data. 

2. Use this information to plan budgets, avoid bill shock, and make informed decisions. 

Smart meters give you access to free and regular information on your energy use.  

a. Your energy supplier may provide this via an online platform, app, smart meter display or other data tools. 

The Business Case for Sustainability 

Energy efficiency is no longer just a cost-saving measure—it’s a competitive advantage. Sustainable practices can benefit your business in three key ways: 

Financial impact 

• 48% of business owners say sustainability initiatives are already benefitting their finances. 

• 59% believe these efforts will yield long-term financial gains. 

Attracting talent 

• 53% of employees prefer working for businesses that demonstrate strong sustainability credentials. 

Enhancing supply chains 

• 59% of businesses prioritise suppliers with strong sustainability practices. 

• 57% prefer working with local suppliers to reduce product mileage and environmental impact. 

Getting a smart meter installed , can help improve energy efficiency and also help position your business as forward-thinking and environmentally responsible. 

Small Steps, Big Results 

Here’s how to take action today: 

1. Check your eligibility 

Whether you own or rent your business premises, contact your energy supplier or broker to see if you qualify for a smart meter. Alternatively, search "Get a Smart Meter for Business" for more information. 

2. Explore your usage patterns 

Use smart meter data to pinpoint high-energy consumption areas and adopt cost-saving practices. For example: 

• Adjusting heating or lighting schedules. 

• Replacing outdated equipment with energy-efficient alternatives. 

3. Integrate sustainability into your business 

• Highlight your green initiatives to customers and employees. 

• Collaborate with suppliers who share your commitment to sustainability. 

The broader impact 

Smart meters don’t just help your business—they’re part of Great Britain’s energy infrastructure upgrade, paving the way for increased use of greener renewable energy sources. By getting a smart meter installed, you are helping to contribute to a more sustainable future, while boosting your own productivity and competitiveness. 

Ready to get started? 

At Be the Business, we’re here to support small businesses on their productivity journey. Taking simple steps, like getting a smart meter installed, can help your bottom line and your contribution to a greener economy. Don’t wait—start your journey today! 

*Research conducted for Smart Energy GB by Censuswide - 500 Microbusiness owners and decision makers in England, Scotland and Wales (18+), January 2025.