Energy review

The UK Government has launched an independent review into reducing energy costs. This is a welcome development for consumers and businesses alike but it only tells half of the story. The average UK industrial electricity cost in 2016 was the third highest among G7 countries. This is not solely due to high energy costs, but rather the hidden expenses of inefficient, ageing and electrically unsound equipment. Ageing equipment consumes more energy due to inefficient electrical circuitry, which can also cause power quality problems such as electromagnetic interference, harmonic currents and voltage distortions in industrial plants and factories, resulting in higher energy bills.

Power specialists have long identified these problems and worked with businesses to address them but a Government-supported review of these hidden costs is necessary to spark change.

As the UK plans to position itself in a post-brexit world, a review of the hidden industrial energy costs would signify the Government’s commitment to its domestic industry. Business leaders are already doing their part, so we must call on the Government to contribute.

STEVE HUGHES Managing Director, REO UK

Craven Arms, Shropshire