Industries · Garages and MOT centres
Business energy for garages and MOT centres
Garages tend to have short, sharp electricity peaks from compressors and lifts, plus heating for open workshop bays. Long opening hours and Saturday trading also shape how you use energy.
How garages and MOT centres use energy
- Air compressorsOften the biggest single electrical load, and leaks waste energy all day.
- Vehicle liftsHigh power for short bursts.
- Workshop heatingGas, oil or electric heaters for large, draughty bays.
- LightingLong hours under bright workshop lighting.
- Diagnostics and chargersSmall loads, but always on.
Things to consider when buying
- Most independent garages are small enough to be microbusinesses, which brings extra protections.
- Check whether you have a three-phase supply and what capacity it has if you plan EV charging.
- Seasonal heating means gas bills swing a lot. Suppliers look at annual use, not your worst month.
Questions
Is a garage a microbusiness for energy?
Many are. Ofgem's definition includes businesses using under 100,000 kWh of electricity or 293,000 kWh of gas a year, or with fewer than 10 employees and turnover or balance sheet under €2 million.
Do I need a three-phase supply?
Many garages already have one for lifts and compressors. If you plan EV chargers, ask your electrician whether your supply capacity is enough.
Why is my winter gas bill so high?
Heating large, open workshop bays drives gas use in colder months. Suppliers price on your annual use.
We introduce enquiries to an energy broker partner and may receive a fee. We're not a supplier and don't give whole-of-market advice. How we're paid
Your next energy contract deserves a closer look.
About two minutes. No obligation.