In our previous discussions, we’ve explored what Market-wide Half-Hourly Settlement (MHHS) is and provided a practical timeline for UK businesses to prepare for its implementation. Now, let’s delve into how this transformation can be used as a strategic asset for your business.
The Power of Granular Data
MHHS introduces a significant shift in how energy consumption is measured. Instead of relying on estimated daily readings, businesses will receive 48 half-hourly data points each day. This granular data provides an unprecedented insight into energy usage patterns, enabling businesses to identify peak demand periods, inefficiencies, and opportunities for optimisation.
For instance, a manufacturing facility might discover that energy consumption spikes during certain shifts, allowing them to adjust operations or invest in energy-efficient equipment to mitigate these peaks.
Cost Savings Through Flexibility
One of the most compelling advantages of MHHS is the ability to participate in time-of-use tariffs. With detailed half-hourly data, businesses can align energy-intensive processes with off-peak periods when electricity prices are lower. This shift can lead to substantial cost savings.
A logistics company, for example, could schedule electric vehicle (EV) charging during nighttime hours, capitalising on reduced rates and optimising fleet operations without incurring additional costs.
Supporting Net Zero Goals
Accurate, real-time data is crucial for businesses committed to sustainability. MHHS facilitates precise tracking of energy consumption and carbon emissions, providing a clear picture of environmental impact. This transparency makes investments in renewable energy sources, battery storage, and EV infrastructure more valuable and measurable, allowing businesses to track their impact and maximise returns.
Moreover, aligning energy usage with renewable energy availability can enhance a company’s green credentials, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers and stakeholders.
Avoiding Risks and Penalties
While the opportunities are significant, the risks of non-compliance with MHHS are equally pressing. Businesses that fail to upgrade to smart or advanced meters may face penalties, higher operational costs, and potential barriers to onboarding with new suppliers. It’s essential to act promptly to ensure compliance and avoid these pitfalls.
What This Means for Your Business
MHHS is more than a regulatory requirement; it’s a catalyst for operational efficiency, cost savings, and sustainability. By embracing the transition, businesses can unlock new avenues for growth and competitiveness in an evolving energy landscape.
Act Now: Turn Compliance into Advantage
The MHHS rollout is already underway, with full compliance required by 2026 for businesses with smart or advanced meters. Those who act early will be in the best position to capture the benefits, from cost savings and operational efficiency to stronger sustainability credentials.
At Black Sheep Utilities, we’re already working with businesses to transform MHHS from a compliance obligation into a competitive advantage. Our team can help you analyse your half-hourly data, identify areas for optimisation, and build an energy strategy that supports both profitability and net-zero goals.
The time to act is now. Book a no-obligation consultation today and start turning MHHS into an opportunity for smarter, more sustainable growth.
GET IN CONTACT WITH US
What is Market-wide Half-Hourly Settlement (MHHS)?
MHHS is an Ofgem-led reform that will change the way electricity is measured and billed across the UK. Instead of relying on daily or estimated readings, businesses with smart or advanced meters will have their usage recorded every half hour — giving them 48 data points a day. This shift provides more accurate billing, greater transparency, and the chance to optimise energy use.
How can MHHS help my business save money?
MHHS enables businesses to access time-of-use tariffs, where electricity prices vary throughout the day. By using half-hourly data to identify patterns in energy use, companies can shift energy-intensive activities to off-peak times when electricity is cheaper. This flexibility helps reduce energy costs and gives businesses more control over their consumption.
Why is MHHS important for sustainability and net zero goals?
Half-hourly data provides precise insight into your carbon footprint. This allows businesses to measure and track emissions more effectively, making sustainability initiatives such as electric vehicles, battery storage, or on-site renewable generation easier to manage and optimise. By linking usage to carbon impact, MHHS becomes a key enabler of the UK’s net zero transition.
What happens if my business isn’t ready for MHHS?
Businesses that don’t prepare for MHHS could face several risks, including financial penalties, operational disruption, or even being blocked from switching to new suppliers. Non-half-hourly meters will no longer be compatible under the new system, so upgrading to smart or advanced meters is essential for compliance.
How can my business turn MHHS into a competitive advantage?
Rather than seeing MHHS as just a compliance requirement, businesses can use the data to make smarter decisions. By analysing usage patterns, reducing peak demand, and aligning operations with cheaper tariffs, organisations can cut costs and strengthen their sustainability credentials. Early adopters will not only avoid disruption but will also gain a head start in using MHHS as a business intelligence tool.
