When it comes to renewable energy, large corporations' shiny logos and fancy adverts often steal the spotlight.
But what about the smaller players like TimesGroup Ltd, V-TAC and Enviroheat, the local renewable technology providers and small businesses collaborating to create a greener future?
It is easy to be hesitant to trust these smaller, collaborative ventures, assuming we can’t match the reliability or expertise of larger corporations. Spoiler alert: that’s not true.
How about we bust some common myths about smaller local companies and see how they stack up against the big players?
Reality check: Reliability isn’t a question of size—it’s about systems and accountability. Local renewables providers like us often operate with the same robust systems as their corporate counterparts, but they come with the added bonus of agility.
We are smaller, yes, but that makes us nimble, responsive, and adaptable in ways that big corporations struggle to match.
For example, we work closely with our communities, we listen to our customers and can actually act much more quickly on feedback than a bigger company.
If there’s a problem or a need for system upgrades, we are Johnny on the spot, ready to roll up our sleeves and solve the problem directly, rather than routing your concerns through a complicated customer service chain.
You will know us by name, it's as simple as that.
Here’s the truth: Expertise isn’t exclusive to big companies.
Quite the opposite. We have decades of real-world experience installing systems of all sizes, and our teams have deep, specialized knowledge.
We get the best of both worlds by having real working relationships with major manufacturers like Mitsubishi and Clivet, enabling us to be ‘big enough to know, small enough to care’.
While a multinational corporation like Octapus might deploy generic solutions across different markets, we will tailor our services to the unique needs of your home —whether that’s a heat pump, solar, or other technologies..
Still unsure? Ask for our credentials. We are accredited by the most stringent professional bodies in the UK and have MCS, Gas Safe and ISO 9001 & 14001 certifications, amongst many others.
Actually, it’s often the opposite. Innovation thrives in small, collaborative environments where management doesn’t stifle creativity. SME collaborations like ours excel at testing new ideas and piloting cutting-edge technologies.
This type of collaborative, hyper-local innovation rarely starts with corporations because their focus is on large-scale, super profitable one-size-fits-all solutions.
By working with smaller providers, you’re supporting the kind of grassroots innovation that can drive the energy sector forward in exciting and unexpected ways.
Since working with V-TAC and Enviroheat together, we have created a new management system and updated the operating code for hot water technologies.
Safety standards are not dictated by company size; regulations dictate them. SMEs and local renewable energy providers are held to the same safety and operational standards as the big guys. In fact, smaller providers are often more transparent about their processes and happy to share details about safety measures and contingency plans.
Plus, because local providers are embedded in their communities, they have a vested interest in ensuring safety and reliability. Their reputation depends on it.
Sure, corporations can leverage economies of scale to offer competitive pricing. However, local renewable energy collaborations have their own cost advantages, like lower overheads, local sourcing, and community support programs. Moreover, SMEs often offer flexible financing or subscription models, making renewable energy more accessible to small businesses and households.
By choosing a local provider, you’re also keeping your money in the local economy—supporting jobs and fostering economic growth in your area. That’s a win-win.
One of the biggest strengths of SMEs in the renewable energy space is their ability to collaborate. Unlike large corporations, which often operate in silos, smaller providers frequently team up to share resources, expertise, and infrastructure. This collaborative approach not only reduces costs but also fosters innovation and resilience.
For example, two SMEs might partner on an installation project, combining one company’s technical expertise with another’s project management skills. The result? A more efficient, customer-focused solution that is greater than the sum of its parts.
If you’re considering making the switch to renewable energy and are unsure whether to go big or stay local, here are some tips:
Think Local: If supporting your community is important to you, a local provider is often the better choice. They’ll reinvest in your area and be more sensitive to your specific needs.
The renewable energy transition isn’t just about swapping fossil fuels for solar panels; it’s about rethinking how we generate, distribute, and consume energy. Local renewable technology providers are playing a vital role in this transformation, offering innovative, reliable, and community-driven solutions.
So, the next time someone tells you that bigger is better, remember: when it comes to renewable energy, small can be mighty. By choosing a local renewables provider, you’re not just reducing your carbon footprint; you’re powering a more sustainable, equitable future—one kilowatt at a time.
To discuss your ideas for adding renewable technology to your home to reduce your bills, contact us on 0161 413 6156 or info@timesgroupltd.com.
