Affordable Business Energy Solutions for Hairdressers

By Aprajita

Content Editor

In today's rapidly changing world, sustainable practices and energy efficiency have become crucial considerations for businesses across all sectors. Hair salons in Ireland are no exception. As a specialist in energy management, we are here to guide hairdressers through the process of not only choosing the right energy provider and plan for their salon but also adopting energy-saving technologies and eco-friendly practices that can make a positive impact on both their bottom line and the environment.

Business Energy for Hairdressers In Ireland

Energy expenses have taken the forefront among concerns for salons and spas, surpassing worries about rent expenses, product price hikes, and customer acquisition. A significant 24% of salon business owners express their challenges in meeting the energy-related expenditures tied to their operational activities.

This has led to a notable impact on salon decision makers, with 40% experiencing feelings of anxiety regarding their business prospects. Additionally, one in five (20%) has resorted to seeking assistance from friends and family to manage their business-related financial commitments.

With the persistent escalation of the cost of living, salons have observed shifting customer behaviours. An evident 40% of clients are now opting for more budget-friendly treatments, while 35% are extending the time between appointments. Furthermore, 29% are leaving smaller tips, and 18% are even arriving for hair treatments with wet hair in a bid to trim costs.

Average energy usage for a microbusiness Gas - between 5,000 kWh and 15,000 kWh 
Electricity - between 5,000 kWh and 15,000 kWh

How To Choose the Right Business Energy Provider?

Energy tariffs and consumption patterns vary among different providers, so it's important for hair salons to carefully analyse their energy needs. Begin by assessing the salon's historical energy consumption to gain insights into usage patterns. This data can help in selecting a suitable tariff and provider.

Research and compare energy plans offered by different business energy providers. Look for plans that align with your salon's consumption patterns. Consider fixed-rate plans to protect against price fluctuations, especially in times of market volatility. Make sure to scrutinise contract terms, penalties, and the flexibility to switch providers if needed.

How To Manage Your Business Energy Costs for Hair Salons?

Running a successful hair salon requires a delicate balance between creativity, customer satisfaction, and cost management. One significant area that can impact your salon's bottom line is energy costs. As a hair salon owner, understanding how to effectively manage your business energy expenses is not only financially prudent but also essential for contributing to a sustainable future.

1. Assess Your Energy Consumption

   Understanding your energy consumption is the first step towards efficient management. Regularly review your energy bills to track usage patterns and identify trends. Consider investing in an energy monitoring system to gain real-time insights into how your salon utilises business electricity and business gas throughout the day. By recognising peak usage periods, you can strategise to reduce consumption during those times.

2. Choose the Right Energy Plan

   Don't settle for a one-size-fits-all energy plan. Research and compare different energy providers and plans available in your area. Look for plans that offer flexible terms, competitive rates, and align with your salon's operating hours. For example, if your salon operates primarily during business hours, a plan that offers off-peak rates during evenings and weekends might be beneficial.

3. Embrace Energy-Efficient Equipment

   Upgrading to energy-efficient equipment not only reduces your salon's carbon footprint but also cuts down on energy expenses. Choose hairdryers, curling irons, and other styling tools with high energy-efficiency ratings. These tools consume less energy while delivering top-notch results. Additionally, consider installing programmable thermostats to regulate heating and cooling systems intelligently.

4. Implement Smart Technology

   Smart technology can revolutionise energy management in your salon. Invest in smart thermostats that learn your salon's temperature preferences and adjust settings automatically. Use smart plugs to remotely turn off equipment when not in use, eliminating standby energy consumption. Consider installing occupancy sensors that control lighting based on the presence of clients and staff.

5. Optimise Lighting Solutions

   Efficient lighting choices can significantly impact energy consumption. Switch to LED lighting, which consumes less energy and lasts longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. Incorporate natural light by placing workstations near windows and using light-colored interior designs to maximise brightness. Implement motion sensors and timers to ensure lights are only active when needed.

6. Educate Your Staff

   Engage your staff in energy-saving efforts. Train them to turn off lights, styling tools, and equipment when not in use. Encourage them to embrace sustainable practices by explaining how small actions can collectively make a big impact on energy consumption and costs.

7. Explore Renewable Energy Options

   Integrating renewable energy sources into your salon's energy mix is a forward-thinking approach. Consider installing solar panels on your roof to generate clean energy. While the initial investment might be substantial, solar power systems can lead to significant long-term savings and contribute to a more sustainable environment.

8. Regular Maintenance and Inspections

   Perform regular maintenance on your equipment to ensure it operates at optimal efficiency. Schedule energy audits to identify areas of potential improvement. An energy audit can uncover hidden sources of energy waste and suggest tailored solutions to enhance efficiency and cut costs.

9. Involve Your Clients

   Empower your clients to participate in your energy-saving journey. Display information about your salon's sustainable practices and educate them about the importance of using energy-efficient products. Encourage them to support your efforts by choosing eco-friendly hair products and embracing your salon's commitment to sustainability.

10. Monitor and Adjust

    Effective energy management is an ongoing process. Continuously monitor your salon's energy usage and expenses. Set energy consumption targets and regularly review your progress. If you notice any deviations, take corrective actions promptly to stay on track towards your cost-saving and sustainability goals.

Managing energy costs for your hair salon requires a combination of awareness, smart technology adoption, and a commitment to sustainable practices. By implementing these strategies, you can not only reduce your salon's energy expenses but also contribute to a greener and more prosperous future.

Average energy usage for a small business Gas - between 15,000 kWh and 30,000 kWh 
Electricity - between 15,000 kWh and 25,000 kWh

What Are The Components of Your Hair Salon Utility Bill In Ireland?

Your invoice will provide a transparent breakdown of the constituents constituting the total amount payable. This breakdown typically encompasses:

• Standing Charges

  A fixed fee applied per day of the billing cycle. Billing cycles generally span around two months or 60 days, although they might differ. If your average daily electricity usage is two units or less within a billing cycle, a minimal usage charge could be applicable.

• Usage

  Your consumption is derived from your meter readings. Your electricity consumption is computed by gauging the disparity between your present and previous readings. Your supplier will then multiply this figure by your tariff to determine the charges indicated on your bill.

• PSO Levy:

  The Public Service Obligation (PSO) levy is a governmental levy levied on all electricity consumers in Ireland.

• VAT

  All electricity consumers are subject to a 13.5% Value Added Tax (VAT) charge.

• Savings

  Any concessions or cost savings will be explicitly displayed in this section.

• Other Charges:

  Occasionally, your bill might encompass supplementary charges such as site work fees carried out at your premises by ESB Networks.

How Embracing Energy-Saving Technologies Help Save Utility Bill?

Energy-saving technologies present a valuable opportunity for hair salons to reduce costs and minimise their ecological footprint. Start with the lighting choices: opt for energy-efficient LED lights, which not only consume less electricity but also have a longer lifespan. Consider motion sensors and dimmers to optimise lighting based on occupancy.

Heating and cooling contribute significantly to energy consumption. Explore modern heating and cooling systems that allow zoned temperature control. Investing in smart thermostats can enable remote monitoring and adjustments, ensuring a comfortable environment while minimising wastage.

Smart technology can revolutionise energy management. Implementing smart thermostats like Nest thermostat and lighting controls helps salons regulate energy consumption according to occupancy and daylight availability. Automated systems can ensure that lights are turned off when not needed and that temperature settings are optimised for energy efficiency.

Average energy usage for a medium-sized business Gas - between 30,000 kWh and 65,000 kWh 
Electricity - between 25,000 kWh and 50,000 kWh

Efficient Equipment Usage and Eco-Friendly Practices

• Optimising equipment usage:

  Train staff to turn off equipment when not in use. Hairdryers, styling tools, and even computers can contribute to unnecessary energy consumption. Implementing a routine shutdown procedure can become a habit that significantly reduces energy waste.

• Energy-efficient lighting

  Beyond LEDs, consider task lighting to illuminate work areas rather than the entire salon. Incorporate natural light through well-placed windows and skylights, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day.

• Eco-friendly hair products

  Transitioning to eco-friendly hair products aligns with sustainability goals. These products often come in biodegradable packaging and are made from environmentally conscious ingredients, minimising their impact on the planet.

Why It Is Important To Educate Clients and Calculate Your Carbon Footprint?

Going beyond internal changes, salons can play a pivotal role in educating clients about sustainable choices. Display information about the eco-friendly products and practices used in the salon. Encourage clients to make informed decisions that contribute to a more sustainable future.

Calculating the carbon footprint of your salon involves assessing the total amount of greenhouse gas emissions associated with your operations. There are online tools available that can help you with this process. Once you understand your carbon footprint, you can set environmental goals and take specific actions to reduce emissions.

• How To Harness The Solar Power for Clean Energy?
• Solar power systems offer a remarkable opportunity for hair salons to generate clean energy and reduce electricity bills. Ireland's abundant rainfall doesn't deter solar panel efficiency, making it a viable option. Investing in solar panels can lead to long-term savings and energy independence.
• Government incentives and grants are available to support solar installations, making the transition to solar power even more appealing. By feeding excess energy back into the grid, salons can potentially earn revenue through the Feed-in Tariff scheme.

How To Promote Energy Efficiency Through Hair Salon Design?

Effective interior design strategies can optimise energy efficiency:

• Layout strategies

  Arrange workstations to maximise natural light and airflow, reducing the need for artificial lighting and climate control.

• Window treatments

  Choose energy-efficient windows with proper insulation to prevent heat loss during colder months.

• Interior design

  Opt for light-colored walls and reflective surfaces to enhance natural lighting and reduce the need for excessive artificial lighting.

By thoughtfully integrating these design elements, hair salons can create a comfortable and sustainable environment for both clients and staff.

How To Build a Sustainable Future for Irish Hair Salons?

As energy costs continue to rise, and environmental concerns become increasingly paramount, Irish hair salons have a unique opportunity to make a positive impact. By choosing the right energy provider and plan, implementing energy-saving technologies, embracing eco-friendly practices, and harnessing solar power, these businesses can simultaneously cut costs and contribute to a greener future.

Through strategic decisions, education, and a commitment to reducing their carbon footprint, hairdressers in Ireland can be leaders in sustainability, proving that a beautiful look can go hand in hand with a beautiful planet.

How Does Switching Energy Suppliers Lead to Cost Savings?

Even though energy prices are high right now and the energy market can be uncertain, businesses can still save money by switching to different energy providers. At Selectra, we work with reliable suppliers to get good rates for your business.

You can talk to our experts who use technology to help you at (01) 913 1771 (Monday to Thursday: 8:30 am - 6 pm and Friday: 9 am - 5:30 pm). They can help you with your business energy and show you how you might be able to save money.