2021 Business Predictions: Keith Bastian, CEO of Fischer Future Heat

It’s that time of year, when Business Link Magazine invites the region’s business leaders to provide up their predictions for the year ahead. 

It has become something of a tradition, given that we’ve been doing this now for over 30 years.

Here, Business Link catches track of  Keith Bastian, CEO of Fischer Future Heat.

In yesteryear 12 months, we’ve experienced some notable changes to the way we live our lives and conduct business. Although many of these changes occurred under unfavourable circumstances, not every one is for the worst.

Our eyes have been opened wider to alternatives that are helping our planet, our health and our pockets. And therefore, many of these shifts will prevail, even long after the word ‘corona’ returns to strictly leisurely use.

My first prediction is the fact that more will continue to work from home from choice and not enforcement. This is due to the numerous benefits, including saved some time and a lessened carbon footprint, that remote working allows.

It’s this focus on the environment I think will be the most significant, however. For all, including individuals, businesses and even governments, the need to consider the climate crisis in all that we do will become more urgent of computer already is.

But while commutes and air miles are on the decline, the more time at home and greater reliance on technology to stay connected, will undoubtedly neutralise the positive effort. Therefore, we anticipate seeing a greater number of people give thought to their traditional way of energy source and supply and as a result, experience a greater uptake in renewable alternatives and more efficient heating systems to ensure that they're warm through the winter months.

Similarly, while large communal offices might be a thing of the past, more will be taking a look at renovating homes or relocating to spaces in order to create domestic working areas. And when developments get underway, sustainability will be front of mind, driving an increase in controllable electric heating and energy systems that use these renewable sources.

The pandemic, and just about every event that has occurred in the past twelve months has really afforded us new perspectives. These times of uncertainty will have increased the need for control and flexibility moving forward. And not just in working practices.

Both businesses and people will favour solutions that are offered at their demand. From working patterns to more controllable heating systems. To be able to reduce our carbon footprint, it is vital to install heating systems with individual room control. You would not leave the light on within the bedroom if you are reading inside your kitchen – why would you do the same with your heating?