EDF and Heliotec partner to cut SME energy costs

EDF and solar specialist Heliotec have launched a joint initiative to help small and medium-sized businesses reduce energy costs by installing rooftop solar, battery storage and energy efficiency upgrades. The partnership targets businesses struggling with elevated electricity prices and offers turnkey packages that include feasibility assessment, finance options and ongoing performance monitoring. By generating power on-site and reducing grid reliance, SMEs can lock in lower marginal energy costs while improving their carbon footprint—benefits that are particularly attractive to service businesses operating from depots or regional hubs.

The same economic logic applies to fleet electrification. For SMEs with predictable routes, depot-based charging and the ability to install solar canopies or battery systems, switching to electric vans or cars can deliver lower total cost of operation than diesel equivalents—especially when energy generation, storage and vehicle charging are integrated. However, many small businesses lack the time, capital or expertise to model these opportunities themselves, leaving savings on the table. Leasing structures that bundle vehicles, charging infrastructure and energy supply are starting to emerge, simplifying the procurement process and aligning incentives.

Service businesses considering solar should evaluate whether the same site can host EV charging infrastructure, allowing self-generated electricity to power the fleet and maximise return on investment. This requires coordination between energy consultants, electrical contractors, leasing providers and fleet managers—a level of integration that few SMEs achieve without external support. Timing matters too: capital allowances, grants and favourable electricity tariffs are all subject to policy change, so feasibility studies completed today may need refreshing in six or twelve months.

Bluepoppy works with SMEs to join the dots between energy strategy and fleet transition. Our Fleet Cost Review includes an EV readiness assessment that considers your operational patterns, site infrastructure and energy costs to identify whether electrification makes financial sense now or in the near future. We'll also connect you with trusted partners for solar, charging and finance, ensuring you get a coherent package rather than a patchwork of uncoordinated suppliers. Start the conversation today.

Bluepoppy view: Solar and EVs are natural partners for depot-based SMEs – integrate energy and fleet planning to maximise ROI.

Source: FMUK Online — summarised and written from a Bluepoppy perspective. We don’t reproduce the original article.