The Climate Change Levy (CCL) was launched in April 2001. It consists of an additional charge on energy usage and applies to all UK businesses and the Public Sector. The CCL is designed to encourage energy efficiency in business and to help the UK meet its internationally agreed targets for the reduction of ‘greenhouse gas’ emissions.

The CCL is added to energy bills at source; a surcharge of 0.47p/kWh is added for electricity.

Some energy-intensive sectors of industry have negotiated (via their trade associations) exemption from, or a reduction in, the charge. These exemptions were granted in return for undertakings to meet lower energy consumption/greenhouse gas emission targets. Failure to meet these targets, however, can result in the loss of the concession and render such industries liable for the full CCL surcharge.

On the positive side, measures designed to encourage the adoption of energy-efficient technologies have also been introduced. One such measure is the Enhanced Capital Allowance (ECA) scheme.

The Government has published a list of approved technologies and products qualifying for ECAs. Lighting control equipment constitutes one of the qualifying product categories and therefore all Ex-Or energy-saving lighting management systems are included.

Ex-Or’s service includes the supply and installation of various lighting management systems incorporating presence detectors and photocell control. The equipment may also be used to supply occupancy information to the main Building Management System and therefore provide more cost-effective control of HVAC plant. Ex-Or offer the service of a free survey - followed by a project report containing recommendations and costs - for sites throughout the UK.