Energy remains front of mind for many Glasgow firms, from controlling spend and tracking usage to meeting rising expectations on sustainability. In a conversation with the Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, Andrew Ward, CEO of Customer Business at ScottishPower, described the support on offer to help companies manage costs, boost efficiency and plan for a lower-carbon future.

Andrew Ward Sets Out How Fixed Contracts, Digital Tools And 100% Renewable Electricity Can Help Firms Manage Bills And Cut Emissions.

"For most businesses, it comes down to three things: cost control, confidence in energy supply, and simple processes," said Andrew Ward.

"Business owners are busy. They don't want energy to become another full-time job, they want a supplier that's committed to being straightforward and transparent in every transaction, and they want to know they'll be looked after when they need support," he added.

Ward said the utility is focusing on practical help that keeps things clear and predictable for customers. "That's where practical support can make a real difference. For ScottishPower, the focus is on giving business customers straightforward advice, clear account information and access to products and services that can help them plan ahead. That matters in cities like Glasgow where small businesses play such an important role in the local economy."

On sustainability, Ward noted that environmental goals are increasingly integrated into commercial planning. "Sustainability is increasingly part of business planning, whether that is a result of customer expectations, supply chain requirements or a desire to reduce emissions. One practical step is understanding where your electricity comes from."

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He highlighted the company's renewable tariffs and green technology offer. "ScottishPower's electricity tariffs are 100% renewable as standard. They are backed by 100% renewable electricity generated from our own renewable sources in the UK, helping business customers demonstrate progress towards greener operations."

"ScottishPower also offers green technology solutions, including solar panels and electric vehicle charge points, helping businesses generate their own renewable electricity, reduce reliance on the grid and lower their carbon footprint over time."

For firms planning their budgets, Ward emphasised predictability. "Glasgow's businesses need certainty, especially when energy is one of their biggest overheads."

He advised reviewing contract structures closely in light of market swings. "Energy market volatility can make budgeting more difficult, so it is worth looking at contract options carefully. ScottishPower offers 1, 2 and 3 year business energy contracts, giving organisations different options depending on their needs and planning cycle."

Digital tools can also tighten oversight of usage and spend. "Digital account management can also help businesses stay closer to their energy use and costs. Through an online account and app, ScottishPower business customers can view bills, submit meter readings, track energy use and manage payments in one place."

Ward said practical steps can cut waste and emissions without overburdening busy owners. "ScottishPower has worked with the Carbon Trust to provide energy saving advice for business customers, including guidance designed to help businesses save energy, cut costs and reduce carbon emissions. We know that small changes can lead to long-term savings, while also helping to reduce a business's carbon footprint."

Practical actions for Glasgow businesses include:

- Installing smart meters and using energy insights to understand patterns and identify opportunities to reduce consumption.

- Using ScottishPower's green energy guide for tips to trim usage and manage costs.

- Exploring EV charging options to support staff, customers and fleets.

Making administration simpler can also improve day-to-day operations. "For many businesses, simple account management can make a meaningful difference to the day-to-day experience. ScottishPower provides 24/7 online account management where businesses can download bills, manage multiple accounts, track energy use, submit readings and manage direct debits in one place and at a time that suits them," Ward said.

He added that credit balances will be returned automatically after annual reviews. "And for customers in credit after their annual review, ScottishPower will automatically refund the balance, supporting a simpler and more transparent account experience."

Further details on business tariffs, renewable electricity, efficiency advice and greener solutions are available at www.scottishpower.co.uk/business.