Tensions across the Middle East continue as Iran, the US, and the UN fail to agree on Tehran's nuclear programme - claimed to be for energy purposes only - and threats to close the Strait of Hormuz, although still open for business at present to all seafaring traffic a lengthy disruption could result in an upward spike in oil prices.  Although confidence is high that no action will be taken by either side for the immediate future; the outlook remains uncertain. Forward markets are still steady and reflect some of the best future prices for years, but experience has taught us that even small global events can cause large ripples in the markets. Certainly the news that the UK is currently in debt to the tune of £1 trillion will do nothing to maintain market confidence.

In more positive news; prominent champions of green energy, Ecotricity, have snapped up the rights to add hydro electric generation to its already enviable portfolio of renewable-only energy, which is currently harnessed from Solar and Wind power.  Investing in newly pioneered technology - the 'Searaser' is a project able to generate some 500MW of renewable electricity, enough to power almost a quarter of a million homes. Using a simple technique of a pump-like device powered by the swell of the tide to deliver pressurised seawater to on-shore generators, the green light has been given to install some 200 units in the waters around the UK within five years. The costs of generation by Searasers are tiny when compared to complex off-shore generators, which are also prone to corrosion and costly to install.

The catalyst for this decision can be put down in part to the cutting of financial guarantees required by the Government from hydro energy developers by 80%, from £25m to £5m; creating a more realistic prospect for hydro installations to turn a profit. This massive reduction in fees is a welcome, but rather curious decision by the coalition, and is flying directly in the face of the huge cuts to FiTs (feed in tariffs) - currently being contested in the High Court - announced at the end of 2011.

We hope to be able to report more positive news regarding this exciting new incentive, and on a swift resolution to the Iranian conflict, but in the meantime, get in touch with by clicking here to find out how we can help you reduce bottom-line business energy costs - everything from procurement and invoice validation, right up to complex tenant billing and in-depth site surveys; you're sure to find our Utility Consultancy services invaluable, and extremely flexible.