The rising cost of electricity contracts: Is it time for solar?

By Ember Energy Lancashire

01 Jun 2023

pexels-mark-stebnicki-15751120 (2).jpg.jpg

Unless you’ve been entirely off-grid, it’s impossible to have missed the dramatic increase in our energy costs over the last twelve months. A scenario that has left many businesses confronted with the stark reality of soaring bills and much lighter wallets than they had in previous years.

At Ember Energy, we’ve seen cases where electricity contracts have risen from what was once a manageable expense at just 13p per kWh to a dizzying 36p per kWh. And as we approach the season of electricity contract renewals, this is understandably a bitter pill for many to swallow.

The question on many of our minds is, what now? Is there a way to shield ourselves from this energy cost surge?

That’s where, we believe, solar panels come into the picture.

And we’re not alone in our thought process - Elon Musk thinks the same - (more on that later!)

Firstly, why is Solar Energy the solution?

Solar power harnesses the abundant power of the sun to produce electricity.

It’s a renewable source, which means it isn’t running out any time soon. And as an added bonus, unlike fossil fuels, solar energy does not contribute to climate change - making it the greener and more environmentally friendly choice.

Psst - If you’re looking for a more scientific explanation of how solar energy works, we explored this in our previous blog here. 

How is Solar Energy a cheaper alternative?

Crucially, solar energy is more cost-efficient than traditional forms of energy. It can offer long-term cost savings. The sun’s energy is free, so you’re essentially generating your own electricity.

Not only does this help you reduce reliance on energy companies and their seemingly ever-rising fees, but it increases your independence and should be viewed as a long-term investment towards self-reliance and a greener, cheaper future.

As an added bonus, here at Ember Energy, alongside our regular installation services, we’re also able to install solar panels for free to commercial businesses across Lancashire - meaning there are no upfront costs involved.

This works as part of a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) whereby you can get the solar panel system installed for free, on the condition that you purchase power generated from our system at a predetermined rate. This rate is almost always cheaper than the rate offered by local suppliers. In essence, it's a way for you to move to solar energy with no upfront costs (and likely lower ongoing costs) while also reducing your carbon footprint.

Common misconceptions regarding Solar Energy

We hear a lot of outdated misconceptions about solar panels and renewable energy sources. Let’s take a closer look…

“Too expensive”

While it's true that solar panels come with an initial cost, thinking of them as an expense is a common mistake. Instead, consider them a long-term investment. These systems can provide substantial electricity savings over their lifetimes, often paying for themselves within a few years. Also, keep in mind that we have various funding options to help reduce, or even eradicate, this upfront cost (as explored above!)

“They only work in sunny climates”

Contrary to this belief, solar panels do not require constant, direct sunlight to function effectively. They can still generate electricity on cloudy or overcast days - meaning they’re still a reliable option for those living in Lancashire and the rest of the UK. 

Now that we’ve explored why solar energy may be the solution for businesses that have found themselves facing a difficult decision whilst renewing their electricity contracts, let’s take a look at other renewable energy advocates…

Elon Musk’s Solar Vision

Interestingly, one of the most vocal solar energy advocates is the renowned tech entrepreneur Elon Musk. As revealed in Tesla’s ‘Master Plan 3’, Musk suggests that a significant portion of our global energy infrastructure can and should be powered by solar energy.

He aims to do this by:

  • Increasing the production of solar-powered energy products
  • Developing a global network of charging stations and energy storage solutions
  • Expanding the reach of solar-powered energy products

The ultimate goal of this plan? To lead the global effort to eliminate fossil fuels and convert the world to using sustainable energy sources. In essence, Musk plans to create a “sustainable energy civilisation’ which doesn’t require us to destroy natural habitats or resources - and instead leverages renewable energy sources optimally.

Musk advocates for businesses to generate their own electricity by utilising highly efficient solar panel and battery storage systems, such as those we supply and install here at Ember Energy, Lancashire. He reiterates that this would not only save businesses money in the long run but also reduce their carbon emissions and help combat climate change.

Ultimately, Musk strives for a future where the sun provides all of our energy requirements.

Now you can call us biased, but we think he might be onto something.

Don’t let rising energy costs drag your business down…

To conclude, sure, the surge in energy costs is daunting. However, it also provides an opportunity to explore new, more sustainable energy solutions. So if you’re approaching your electricity contract renewal and feeling a little lost, it may be worth considering solar energy.

Don’t let rising energy costs drag your business down when we have plenty of affordable and sustainable solutions for you. Call us now on 07464 729759 and take the first steps towards a financially friendly and greener future. 

Latest news

1

Three weekly domestic waste collection considered in plans Waste recycling Blackpool

Three weekly domestic waste collection considered in plans

01 Jul 2025

2

Graham Engineering confirms acquisition to a2e Industries Graham Engineering

Graham Engineering confirms acquisition to a2e Industries

01 Jul 2025

3

Training 2000 celebrate 'Good' rating by Ofsted Training 2000

Training 2000 celebrate 'Good' rating by Ofsted

01 Jul 2025

4

Fox Group acquires J Fisher and Sons Colin Fisher, Paul Fox CEO and Gary Fisher.

Fox Group acquires J Fisher and Sons

01 Jul 2025

5

Beever and Struthers strengthen leadership team with new partners Dean Curtis and Joe Diston

Beever and Struthers strengthen leadership team with new partners

01 Jul 2025

Background image for hub sign up block

LBV Hub

Leverage Lancashire Business View platforms

Post your news
Post your events
Post your offers
Build your network
Improve your SEO
Gain coverage in the magazine
Sign-up
Events
LBV123 July/August Launch Event
Lancashire Business View magazine launch
Networking
16 Jul 2025

LBV123 July/August Launch Event

Burnley

08:30 - 10:30

Lancashire Built Environment Conference 2025
BEC 315 X 315 Px
Networking
25 Sep 2025

Lancashire Built Environment Conference 2025

Blackpool Football Club, Blackpool, FY1 6HX

08:30 - 13:00

CMI Level 5 Management and Leadership Course
UCLanAerialCampus.jpg.jpg
LBV Hub Seminars
21 Feb 2025 - 21 Feb 2026

CMI Level 5 Management and Leadership Course

Preston Campus, Preston , PR1 2HE

09:00 - 17:00

CMI Level 5 Project Management Course
UCLanAerialCampus.jpg.jpg
LBV Hub Seminars
21 Feb 2025 - 21 Feb 2026

CMI Level 5 Project Management Course

Preston Campus, Preston, PR1 2HE

08:00 - 17:00

Business Bike Club – July
Chamber Logo1.png.png
LBV Hub Networking
01 Jul 2025 - 01 Jul 2025

Business Bike Club – July

Various, Lancaster, LA

08:00 - 09:30

Chamber Breakfast Networking – July
Chamber Logo1.png.png
LBV Hub Networking
02 Jul 2025 - 02 Jul 2025

Chamber Breakfast Networking – July

St John's Hospice, Slyne Road, Lancaster, LA2 6ST

08:00 - 10:00

The Marketing Metrics that Matter – July 4
LBV Hub Seminars
04 Jul 2025 - 04 Jul 2025

The Marketing Metrics that Matter – July 4

Door4 Office, Burnley Wharf, Burnley, BB11 1JG

08:30 - 11:00

Tri-Site Survey Equipment Showcase
unnamed (2).jpg.jpg
LBV Hub Seminars
09 Jul 2025 - 09 Jul 2025

Tri-Site Survey Equipment Showcase

Crow Wood Hotel, Burnley, BB12 0RT

09:30 - 16:00

Chamber Summer BBQ
LBV Hub Social
17 Jul 2025 - 17 Jul 2025

Chamber Summer BBQ

The Borough, Dalton Square, Lancaster, LA1 1PP

17:30 - 20:00

Preston Tech Connection: Web3 is Dead. Or is It?
July Longer Banner.jpg.jpg
LBV Hub Networking
29 Jul 2025 - 29 Jul 2025

Preston Tech Connection: Web3 is Dead. Or is It?

Society1, Coworking Space, Preston, PR1 3LT

18:00 - 19:30

Preston Freelancer Meet-Up: July
Longer July Banner.jpg.jpg
LBV Hub Networking
31 Jul 2025 - 31 Jul 2025

Preston Freelancer Meet-Up: July

Society1, Coworking Space, Preston, PR1 3LT

10:00 - 11:30

Cumbria Business Expo 2025
https---cdn.evbuc.com-images-880461633-4862066883-1-original.20241022-110415.jpeg.jpg
LBV Hub Exhibitions
19 Sep 2025 - 19 Sep 2025

Cumbria Business Expo 2025

Carlisle Racecourse, Carlisle, CA2 4TS

09:00 - 15:00

Advertise with us

Reaching 50,000 members, our print, digital and event platforms offer a fantastic way to raise your business profile and help you grow.

Find out more LBV122 Online Graphic
Subscribe now

Weekly news bulletin