Spring 2026


The flagship magazine of the Major Energy Users’ Council
Free to subscribers

In this issue

21 pieces
Allocation Rounds

Contracts for Difference – AR7 results

AR7 delivers record renewable capacity but key questions remain on cost and system balance. Eddie Proffitt examines whether the numbers truly add up. The Government's latest Contracts for Difference auction results show significant renewable capacity awarded, though questions persist about overall value for money and integration challenges.

Water Strategy

Water policy reform: the message for business

Waste less, reuse more, pay more – the Government's Water White Paper has clear messages for business water efficiency. MEUC's Water Adviser Karma Loveday examines the implications for business.

Viewpoint

From data to direction: How energy users can cut through the noise

In today's unpredictable energy market, data alone is not enough. Claire Slade explores how insight and shared experience can turn information into confident decisions.

Subsurface Energy

Efficient, low-carbon heating and cooling using Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage

Low-carbon heating, reimagined – guest writer Professor Matthew Jackson explains how ATES can transform building heating and cooling, following his presentation in one of MEUC's November webinars.

Parliamentary Insights

Government's targeting draws plenty of flak

Geoff Davies spotlights some significant developments, also turning the beam on to some heavy criticism. Recent Government announcements on energy infrastructure and policy have attracted considerable scrutiny from industry.

Energy Evolution

CPPAs are changing – here's what large energy users need to know

Corporate Power Purchase Agreements are moving from niche finance tools to core energy strategy. Callum O'Reilly explains what this means for consumers.

Demand Flexibility

Shaping demand in a renewables-dominated system

With renewables dominating the power mix, timing your energy use now matters as much as volume. Tim Foster explores how demand is evolving into a strategic asset.

Strategic Shift

Energy procurement in 2026: Why reactive buying is no longer an option

Energy procurement stands at a structural turning point. Arthur Beattie explains why strategic, data-driven sourcing must now define the future.

Reducing Carbon

Scope 2 is changing

The way companies account for purchased electricity is changing. Tom Parsons explains what businesses must do to stay ahead of upcoming Scope 2 reforms.

AMRs

Why water efficiency can't wait: A real-life example of how a council saved £249,000 in costs

For businesses facing higher water bills this April, efficiency offers a practical solution. Michael Carey highlights how the right retail support can unlock meaningful savings.

Market Study

Reliability tops price as key consideration when choosing an energy contract

Drawing on new survey data, SEFE Energy examines how businesses are prioritising secure supply while accelerating decarbonisation and digital energy solutions.

Real-time Markets

Reliable market infrastructure is now a system requirement

The UK has rapidly expanded renewable generation, but infrastructure hasn't kept pace. UrbanChain says the next phase isn't adding more megawatts, but improving coordination.

Data and Metering

MHHS migration: Why your business cannot afford to wait

Stark reveals how MHHS migration isn't just compliance – it's an opportunity to control costs and optimise energy infrastructure.

Decarbonisation Strategy

Four steps to encourage CPPAs

Arthur Probert offers four developments that can increase the appetite for Corporate Power Purchase Agreements.

Investment Strategy

Choosing the right ownership and financing strategy for on-site solar for your business

Jon Kirby explains how major energy users can unlock the potential of on-site solar by structuring investment, ownership and risk to maximise long-term value.

News

Dundee Water innovator secures £350,000 to scale micro-greywater recycling technology

Dundee-based water innovation firm Cascade Water Products secured up to £350,000 in angel investment to accelerate the commercial rollout of its micro-greywater recycling technology.

News

Roadmap calls for tens of billions of pounds in investment to scale long-duration energy storage in the UK

The Transition Finance Council has published a new roadmap urging coordinated action from Government, regulators and industry to unlock tens of billions of pounds of investment in Long-Duration Energy Storage.

Rising Network Costs

Managing non-commodity cost increases in 2026 and beyond

Rising TNUoS and wider non-commodity charges are reshaping the energy cost landscape for UK businesses. Stephen Lyons outlines the scale of the challenge and the practical steps companies can take to stay ahead.

Tomorrow's Power

Building a better energy tomorrow starts with the solutions of today

Jodie Eaton explains practical solutions to today's energy trilemma of security, affordability, and environmental sustainability.

Sustainability

Reducing Scope 3 emissions in energy-intensive manufacturers

David Kipling reveals practical steps for manufacturers to measure, manage and reduce Scope 3 emissions, helping companies meet regulatory requirements and strengthen their sustainability credentials.

Renewable Power

Why Corporate PPAs are essential for sustainability and resilience

CPPAs are reshaping corporate energy strategy. EDF explores how businesses can boost both financial resilience and sustainability.

Buying and
Using Utilities

The flagship magazine of the Major Energy Users’ Council, established 1987.

Membership & access

Buying & Using Utilities is free to MEUC members and mailing list subscribers.

Join MEUC →
Editorial

Publisher: Major Energy Users’ Council

© MEUC. All rights reserved. Views expressed are those of the authors.