Over the last 12 months many local businesses have suffered from soaring energy bills. With increases of 70% and even 100% in this area not uncommon, I thought local firms may find the following simple energy efficiency tips helpful: . If you can't measure it, you can't manage it - take your own meter readings, don't just rely on your bills being accurate, work out what you consume weekly and set a reduction target, and make sure that any estimated bills reflect what you actually use.

. Use only the light you need - turning off lights in empty rooms and corridors can save up to 15% on your lighting bill.

. Don't heat unused space, and set the thermostat at 19C - costs rise by 8% for every 1C increase.

. For more help and advice contact the Carbon Trust on 0800 085 2005 or visit www.carbontrust.co.uk