Slashing energy bills without disturbing residents

With energy prices now one of the fastest-rising non-staff costs for care homes, many operators are under severe financial strain. Heating, hot water, and 24/7 power for lighting, kitchens, and medical equipment make energy a heavy burden, and one that is difficult to cut without risking resident comfort or compliance.

While staffing costs remain the single largest driver of fee increases, energy remains a key contributor. Every pound spent keeping the lights and heating on has to come from somewhere and, in many cases, it is passed directly to residents and their families. According to market researchers LaingBuisson, the average fees paid by self-funders in the UK have risen by more than a quarter since 2021—22. At a time when the cost of living is already stretched, the prospect of care home bills rising even further can be a significant source of anxiety for families.

OakNorth's latest care sector report states that 70 per cent of care homes will need retrofitting to meet EPC B targets (a policy in the UK aiming to improve the energy efficiency of privately rented non-domestic buildings) by 2030. Rising energy bills will urge a push to sustainability, but cost constraints may hinder progress.