Smart energy use, technology choices, and behaviour change to future-proof your business.

Is your business ready for the future of sustainable operations? Join us for this practical, hands-on workshop designed specifically for SMEs looking to reduce energy costs, cut carbon emissions, and gain a competitive edge through smart sustainability practices.

This half-day intensive workshop brings together leading experts from London South Bank University’s College of Technology and Environment to share cutting-edge research, proven strategies, and actionable insights that you can implement immediately in your business.

What You’ll Learn

This workshop will equip you with practical knowledge and tools across four critical areas:

1. Energy Efficiency & Cost Reduction
   Discover how energy is actually used within commercial buildings and identify the hidden opportunities for savings. Learn to read your energy bills effectively, spot inefficiencies, and understand where your money is going. Our experts will guide you through real-world case studies showing how businesses like yours have achieved significant cost reductions.
2. Technology Solutions That Pay For Themselves
   Explore the latest smart technologies and equipment choices that deliver measurable returns on investment. From LED lighting and smart heating controls to renewable energy options, we’ll help you understand which technologies make sense for your business size, sector, and budget. You’ll learn how to evaluate technology options and make informed decisions that balance upfront costs with long-term savings.
3. The Human Factor: Behaviour Change for Better Performance
   Technology alone isn’t enough. Understand how employee and customer behaviour impacts your energy performance and environmental footprint. Learn proven techniques for engaging your team in sustainability efforts and creating a culture of energy awareness that delivers lasting results.
4. Your Action Plan for Innovation & Competitiveness
   Leave with a personalised roadmap for your business. We’ll help you identify quick wins, medium-term opportunities, and strategic innovations that will position your business ahead of regulatory changes, meet growing customer expectations for sustainability, and unlock new business opportunities in the green economy.

Meet Your Expert Facilitators

Professor Aaron Gillich: Professor of Building Decarbonisation, Energy, Materials and Environment Research Centre, College of Technology and Environment

Dr Benjamin Lishman, Associate Professor in Mechanical Engineering and Design and Associate Dean for Students, College of Technology and Environment

Dr Bertug Ozarisoy: Senior Lecturer in Architecture, Energy, Materials and Environment Research Centre, College of Technology and Environment

Dr James Bishop: Senior Lecturer in Built Environment. Construction, Property and Surveying, College of Technology and Environment

Dr Mubarak Abdelrasoul Elnour Ismail: Lecturer in Building Services Engineering, College of Technology and Environment

Professor Issa Chaer: Professor of Thermal Energy Systems and Associate Dean, Research and Innovation. College of Technology and Environment.

Supporting staff:

Alex Hokin, UKSPF Project Manager, London South Bank University.

Anna Kulhan, UKSPF Compliance Officer and Coordinator, London South Bank University.

 

Why Attend

✓ Expert Knowledge: Learn from six leading academics specialising in building decarbonisation, energy systems, and sustainable design
✓ Practical Focus: Leave with tools and strategies you can implement immediately
✓ Networking Opportunities: Connect with other local businesses facing similar challenges
✓ Personalised Insights: Bring your own energy bills for tailored analysis and recommendations
✓ Complimentary: Lunch and refreshments provided throughout the day
✓ BIG Growth Programme: Access ongoing support for your sustainability journey

 

Who Should Attend

This workshop is ideal for:

• Business owners and directors of SMEs
• Operations and facilities managers
• Sustainability coordinators
• Anyone responsible for controlling energy costs and reducing environmental impact

No prior technical knowledge is required – we’ll explain everything in clear, practical terms.

 

Important: What to Bring

To maximise the value of this workshop, please bring:

• Recent energy bills (electricity and gas) for your business premises
• Information about any technologies or systems you’re currently considering or using
• Questions and challenges you’re facing around energy and sustainability

This will enable our experts to provide tailored advice and work through practical examples relevant to your specific situation.

Lunch & Refreshments

Complimentary lunch and refreshments will be provided throughout the day, giving you plenty of opportunity to network with fellow business owners and our expert team.

 

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Agenda

12:00 – 12:30 – Registration & Welcome Refreshments

Arrive, check in, and network over refreshments

12:30 – 13:00 – Introduction & Overview of the BIG Growth Programme with Alex Hokin

Learn about the broader support available for your sustainability journey.

13:00 – 13:30 – Icebreakers & Hearing from SMEs

Share your challenges and learn from peer experiences.

13:30 – 14:00 – Energy Use Within Buildings & Technology Choices

Understanding your energy consumption and identifying opportunities for improvement.

14:00 – 14:15 – Comfort Break & Networking Opportunity

Informal discussions with facilitators and fellow participants.

14:15 – 14:45 – Smart Technologies for Business

Exploring practical technology solutions that deliver ROI.

14:45 – 15:15 – Innovations & your Sustainable Action Plan

Developing a customised roadmap for your business.

15:15 – 16:00 – SME Networking & Knowledge Exchange

Extended opportunity to connect, share insights, and build relationships.

 

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Don’t miss this opportunity to future-proof your business whilst reducing costs and environmental impact.

This project is funded by the Mayor of London and the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Spaces are limited – register today!