Business industrial

Bank Customers Left Disappointed as FCA Steps in Over Unfair Treatment of Savers

Published

3 years ago

March 8, 2023

Harry Williams

Are you tired of banks taking advantage of your hard-earned money? You’re not alone. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has stepped in to address the unfair treatment of savers by some UK banks, leaving customers disappointed with their banking experiences. In this blog post, we’ll explore the reasons behind the FCA’s intervention and what it means for bank customers going forward. Whether you’re a seasoned saver or new to the world of banking, read on to find out how these changes could impact you.

The FCA’s intervention over unfair treatment of savers

In recent years, savers have been left disappointed by the low interest rates on their savings. The FCA has now intervened and is taking action to ensure that banks treat savers fairly.

The intervention follows a review of the way banks are treating their customers who are in receipt of interest on their savings. The Review found that some banks were not providing sufficient information to customers about the alternatives available to them, and that some were not offering fair terms when it came to early withdrawals or closing accounts.

As a result of the Review, the FCA is now introducing new rules which will require banks to treat savers fairly. This includes ensuring that customers are given clear information about the interest rate they will receive on their savings, and that they are made aware of any changes in advance. In addition, banks will be required to give customers a reasonable amount of time to consider any changes to their account, and provide them with guidance on where they can get help if they need it.

The FCA’s intervention is welcome news for savers, who have been struggling in recent years with low interest rates. With these new rules in place, banks will need to treat their customers fairly when it comes to savings accounts, giving them the information they need and providing them with reasonable terms.

Why some banks are still not doing enough

Recent research by consumer watchdog Which? has found that some banks are still not doing enough to help their customers, despite the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) taking action to improve the way banks treat their customers.

Which? found that one in five people who had made a complaint to their bank in the last 12 months were left feeling dissatisfied with the response. The most common issues were around unauthorised transactions, payment protection insurance (PPI) and mis-sold products.

The FCA has been working to improve the way banks deal with complaints, but it seems that more needs to be done. In particular, the watchdog is concerned about the way some banks are handling PPI complaints.

The FCA has said that it will be monitoring complaints data closely and will take action if it finds that banks are not treating customers fairly. In the meantime, if you have a complaint about your bank, you should make sure you give them a chance to put things right before escalating it to the regulator.

How to know if your bank is treating you fairly

When the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) steps in to investigate unfair treatment of savers by their bank, it’s a sign that something has gone wrong. If you’re a bank customer who feels like you’ve been treated unfairly, there are some things you can do to find out if your bank is at fault.

Start by looking at your bank’s internal complaints procedure. This is the process your bank should follow when investigating and resolving customer complaints. If you’re not satisfied with the response you receive from your bank, you can escalate your complaint to the Financial Ombudsman Service. The ombudsman is an independent body that adjudicates disputes between banks and their customers.

If you’re concerned about the way your bank has treated you, it’s important to speak up. By raising your concerns, you could help protect other customers from being treated unfairly.

What to do if you’re not happy with your bank

If you’re not happy with your bank, there are a few things you can do. First, try to resolve the issue directly with your bank. If you’re not satisfied with their response, you can file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). You can also file a complaint with your state’s attorney general or consumer protection office. Finally, if you’re still not satisfied, you can switch to another bank.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this case highlights the importance of understanding customer rights when dealing with banks and other financial institutions. We hope that customers are now more aware of how banking practices can be unfair, and how to seek redress if they feel that their bank is treating them unfairly. It is also important for customers to remember to shop around for a better deal on savings accounts – as the FCA found in this case, switching could save you hundreds of pounds in terms of interest rate alone!

Author

Harry Williams

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Business industrial

ISO 50001 Certification in Kuwait: A Pathway to Enhanced Energy

Published

1 hour ago

January 7, 2026

isocertification

As global energy costs rise and sustainability becomes a strategic priority, organizations across sectors are turning to ISO 50001 to build robust energy management systems.

The standard provides a framework that helps companies improve energy efficiency, cut waste, reduce emissions, and achieve long-term operational excellence. Businesses pursuing ISO 50001 Certification in Kuwait are increasingly recognizing the tangible value it delivers.

The following real-world inspired success stories—presented without using any company names—highlight how organizations in manufacturing, hospitality, oil & gas, logistics, and public services have transformed their energy performance after adopting ISO 50001.

These examples also demonstrate how engaging ISO 50001 Consultants in Kuwait, preparing for an ISO 50001 Audit in Kuwait, and understanding ISO 50001 Cost in Kuwait can contribute to significant energy savings and measurable environmental improvement.

1. Manufacturing Plant Achieves Major Energy Savings Through Systematic Monitoring

A medium-sized manufacturing plant producing industrial components faced rising energy costs due to outdated equipment and inefficient processes.

Leadership realized that improving energy performance was critical to staying competitive, so the organization initiated ISO 50001 in Kuwait to redesign its energy management practices.

Challenges

High energy consumption during peak production
Lack of real-time energy monitoring
Inefficient compressor usage
No formal energy baseline for comparison

With guidance from experienced ISO 50001 Consultants in Kuwait, the plant conducted a detailed energy review, installed smart meters, and implemented better scheduling for energy-intensive operations.

Measurable Improvements

18% reduction in total energy consumption within the first year
Significant cost savings due to optimized compressor operations
Reduced maintenance downtime
Creation of a continual improvement culture

The plant reported that although the ISO 50001 Cost in Kuwait required budgeting for new meters and staff training, the investment paid for itself within months through energy savings.

2. Hotel Chain Improves Guest Experience While Reducing Utility Bills

A large hotel chain operating multiple properties was struggling with high electricity and water bills. With increasing pressure to adopt sustainable tourism practices, the organization chose to implement ISO 50001 Certification in Kuwait to streamline energy use.

Initiatives Implemented

LED lighting upgrades across all guest rooms and public areas
Smart HVAC controls and motion sensors
Training staff on energy-efficient housekeeping practices
Introducing guest-awareness campaigns about energy use

Results Achieved

25% reduction in annual electricity consumption
Improved indoor temperature stability and guest comfort
Enhanced brand reputation for sustainability
Lower operational expenses and improved profit margins

During the ISO 50001 Audit in Kuwait, auditors acknowledged the hotel’s strong commitment to continuous improvement, particularly in controlling HVAC losses during peak seasons.

3. Oil and Gas Facility Lowers Emissions via ISO 50001 Framework

A site for oil and gas processing aimed to enhance its environmental performance by better managing its energy usage. With energy use accounting for a major share of its operational expenses, the company adopted ISO 50001 in Kuwait to reduce both emissions and fuel consumption.

Action Steps

Conducted a comprehensive energy gap assessment
Optimized boiler operations and heat recovery systems
Introduced KPIs for energy performance
Engaged multiple departments in the energy-management program

Positive Outcomes

14% reduction in fuel consumption within the first 18 months
Lower greenhouse gas emissions
Better monitoring of critical equipment
Stronger compliance with national energy regulations

Despite the initially higher ISO 50001 Cost in Kuwait for technical improvements, the facility achieved significant long-term cost avoidance by preventing energy waste.

4. Logistics and Distribution Center Improves Operational Efficiency

A logistics firm operating warehouses across Kuwait dealt with rising energy expenses due to long working hours, outdated forklifts, and inefficient lighting. Implementing ISO 50001 Certification in Kuwait helped reshape operations across all facilities.

Changes Introduced

Replacing old forklifts with energy-efficient electric models
Installing daylight-sensitive LED systems
Optimizing warehouse layout to reduce equipment travel distance
Regular energy-performance meetings with team leaders

Impact

20% reduction in warehouse electricity consumption
Reduced carbon footprint
Faster warehouse operations due to layout improvements
Higher employee awareness of energy reduction goals

The organization noted that the ISO 50001 Audit in Kuwait encouraged better tracking of forklift efficiency, resulting in reduced energy costs per shipment.

5. Government Facility Enhances Sustainability and Reduces Waste

A large government building sought to align with national sustainability goals by pursuing ISO 50001 in Kuwait. Public facilities often operate for long hours, making energy optimization crucial.

Implementation Strategy

Integrating smart building-management systems
Upgrading outdated chillers with high-efficiency models
Creating dashboards for real-time energy tracking
Involving employees through training and awareness drives

Key Benefits

30% reduction in annual energy bills
Enhanced indoor air quality
Strengthened public image as a sustainability leader
Reduction in operational inefficiencies

The cost of the project was initially high, but government incentives helped offset part of the ISO 50001 Cost in Kuwait, making it easier to implement.

Conclusion

These real-world inspired examples demonstrate that ISO 50001 is more than just a certification—it is a practical pathway to measurable energy improvement.

Whether in manufacturing, hospitality, logistics, oil & gas, or public services, organizations adopting ISO 50001 Certification in Kuwait consistently report lower energy costs, stronger environmental performance, and improved operational efficiency.

With the support of knowledgeable ISO 50001 Consultants in Kuwait, thorough planning for ISO 50001 Audit in Kuwait, and clear understanding of ISO 50001 Cost in Kuwait, businesses can unlock long-term savings and build a sustainable future.

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isocertification

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Business industrial

Differentiating Shared Services vs. BPO: What Businesses Need to Know

Published

1 month ago

December 2, 2025

sixelevenbpo1

Reviewed
By Ella Parker

Introduction

As companies grow, so do their operational demands. Managing finance, HR, IT, customer service, and administrative tasks becomes more complex and costly. To operate more efficiently, organizations often explore support models like Shared Services and Business Process Outsourcing (BPO).

These two models might seem similar, but they serve different purposes—and choosing the right one can significantly impact a company’s costs, productivity, and long-term growth. In this blog, we break down the key differences between shared services vs. BPO, helping your business make the right decision. Companies around the world rely on trusted outsourcing partners like SixEleven BPO to improve efficiency while lowering operational costs.

What Are Shared Services?

A shared services model centralizes internal business functions within the company. Instead of each department or branch handling tasks separately, a dedicated internal team supports the entire organization from one location.

For example, a corporation might establish a Shared Services Center (SSC) for:

HR administration
Payroll and timekeeping
Finance and accounting
Procurement
IT support
Data management

Key Characteristics of Shared Services

Owned and operated by the company: The business manages the team, processes, and infrastructure.
Focus on standardization: Shared services optimize workflows across departments to reduce duplication and errors.
Internal cost-savings model: By centralizing teams, companies reduce operational expenses compared to having separate teams in each department.
Best for large enterprises: Shared services are ideal for organizations with high-volume, repetitive processes.

Advantages of Shared Services

More control over operations
Standardized internal processes
Better data governance
Closer alignment with company culture

Limitations of Shared Services

High setup cost
Requires large headcount
Limited scalability
Still dependent on internal hiring and management
Not ideal for small and medium enterprises (SMEs)

What Is Business Process Outsourcing (BPO)?

BPO involves hiring an external company to handle specific tasks or entire business functions. Instead of building an internal department, businesses outsource their operations to specialized service providers, often located offshore.

Key Characteristics of BPO

Operated by an external provider: The outsourcing company is responsible for hiring, training, and managing the team.
Flexible and scalable: Businesses can scale up or down quickly depending on demand.
Cost-efficient: Offshore outsourcing can save companies 60–70% in labor and operational costs.
Focus on quality and expertise: BPO providers specialize in the tasks they support, offering higher efficiency and performance.

Advantages of BPO

Lower operational costs
Access to global talent
24/7 support availability
Fast deployment and team expansion
No infrastructure or HR burden
Professional management and better productivity

Limitations of BPO

Requires communication alignment
Needs clear documentation and expectations
Cultural differences (minimal when outsourcing to the Philippines)

Shared Services vs. BPO: Key Differences

1. Ownership and Control

Shared Services: Operated internally.
BPO: Outsourced to a third-party provider.

2. Cost Structure

Shared Services: Lower cost than multiple in-house teams but still expensive to maintain.
BPO: Highest cost savings—offshore outsourcing reduces expenses by up to 70%.

3. Scalability

Shared Services: Limited, depends on internal hiring and budget.
BPO: Highly scalable with fast team expansion.

4. Expertise

Shared Services: Generalized, company-trained teams.
BPO: Specialized teams with industry-specific experience.

5. Setup Requirements

Shared Services: Requires office space, technology, HR, and management.
BPO: No setup needed provider already has teams, systems, and infrastructure.

6. Best Suited For

Shared Services: Multinational enterprises with high-volume internal processes.
BPO: Businesses of all sizes, especially those seeking cost savings and efficiency.

Which Model Is Right for Your Business?

Both models offer strong benefits, but the best choice depends on your business goals, budget, and long-term plans.

Choose Shared Services If:

You want full internal control
You’re a large enterprise with extensive internal processes
Budget is not a major concern
You want to standardize internal workflows

Choose BPO If:

You want to drastically reduce costs
You need fast scalability
You want to free your internal team from time-consuming tasks
You need trained professionals instantly
You require 24/7 support
You want to focus on core business growth

Why Many Companies Prefer BPO Today

Modern businesses prioritize flexibility, speed, and cost-effectiveness—areas where outsourcing excels. BPO providers like SixEleven BPO deliver trained teams, industry expertise, and customized workflows without the heavy investment required for shared services.

Companies benefit from:

Lower labor costs
Ready-to-go trained teams
Faster delivery times
Improved customer satisfaction
Stronger operational performance

For many organizations, outsourcing is not just a cost-saving decision—it is a strategic advantage.

Challenges and Considerations

1. Shared Services Challenges

High initial investment in infrastructure and staff
Limited flexibility compared to outsourcing
Dependence on internal resources for technology and expertise

2. BPO Challenges

Less direct control over processes
Potential communication and cultural barriers in offshore BPO
Risk of data security and compliance issues
Dependence on service-level agreements for quality assurance

Factors Businesses Should Consider When Choosing Between Shared Services and BPO

Core vs. Non-Core Activities: Identify which functions are essential to your business strategy. Core functions may benefit more from shared services, while non-core functions may be suitable for BPO.
Cost vs. Long-Term Investment: Evaluate whether your organization can afford the initial investment for shared services or if immediate cost savings through BPO are more strategic.
Control Requirements: Determine the level of control your organization needs over processes. Shared services provide more control, while BPO involves reliance on external providers.
Scalability Needs: If rapid growth or seasonal fluctuations are expected, BPO offers more scalable solutions.
Expertise and Technology Access: Consider whether your organization has the internal expertise and technology to manage processes efficiently or if an external provider can deliver better results.
Risk and Compliance: Evaluate operational, legal, and security risks associated with outsourcing versus maintaining an internal shared services model.

Conclusion

Understanding the differences between shared services and BPO is essential for businesses aiming to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance overall operations. Shared services provide centralized, internally managed processes with long-term control and consistency, while BPO offers flexibility, access to specialized expertise, and potential cost savings through external providers. Businesses should assess their core activities, scalability needs, control preferences, and risk tolerance before making a decision. By carefully considering these factors, organizations can select the right model to drive efficiency, support growth, and achieve strategic goals.

Final Thoughts

Shared services and BPO both play important roles in business operations, but they serve different needs. Shared services focus on internal centralization, while BPO offers external expertise, scalability, and significant cost savings.

Companies looking for efficiency, flexibility, and rapid growth often choose outsourcing partners like SixEleven BPO to handle customer service, back-office, sales, and support tasks. With the right outsourcing strategy, businesses can enhance performance, reduce costs, and stay competitive in today’s fast-changing marketplace.

More: Establish your brand effortlessly with LgoConnects virtual office BGC offering premium business identity without long-term rent or overhead expenses.

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sixelevenbpo1

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Business industrial

Best Solar Panels for Australian Homes

Published

1 month ago

November 26, 2025

ElectricalMasters

Reviewed
By Alice Hooper

Introduction

Investing in solar energy is one of the most effective ways Australian homeowners can decrease electricity bills, improve energy independence, and contribute to a greener future. With so many brands, technologies, and installation choices available, understanding how to choose suitable solar panels is essential.

At Electrical Masters, we follow Australian solar rules and Clean Energy Council (CEC) standards to ensure every household obtains a system that’s safe, durable, and built for long-term performance. When customers search for the best solar panels, they are usually looking for things that offer durability, efficiency, and long warranties—qualities which match perfectly with what our team provides.

Why Solar Energy Is Beneficial for Australian Homes

Solar energy provides multiple advantages for homeowners, making it a popular choice across Australia.

Lower Electricity Bills: Solar panels generate free electricity from sunlight, reducing reliance on the grid. Homeowners can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars annually.
Energy Independence: Generating your own electricity reduces dependence on fluctuating energy prices. With battery storage, you can even power your home during peak times or outages.
Environmental Impact: Solar energy reduces greenhouse gas emissions, helping combat climate change and promoting a sustainable future.
Property Value: Homes with solar panels often have higher resale value and attract environmentally conscious buyers.
Government Incentives: Australian homeowners can benefit from federal and state rebates, making solar energy more affordable.

These benefits make investing in solar a long-term solution that pays off financially and environmentally.

Evaluating the Quality of Solar Panels

Selecting high-quality solar panels requires more than just comparing price tags. It needs evaluate efficiency, durability, certification, installation quality, and long-term return on investment.

Get your free solar consultation today with Electrical Masters and get free quote!

Power Efficiency and System Performance

Solar panel performance controls how much sunlight can be turned into usable energy. High-efficiency panels can be used for roofs with limited area or for families with greater energy demands. Technological developments like as half-cut cells, mono crystal designs, and advanced anti-reflective coatings improve maximise performance throughout the year.

Long-Lasting Panels for Australian Climates

Australia’s the environment may be difficult on solar equipment. Panels must withstand:

Extreme UV exposure
High summer temperatures
Heavy rainfall
Coast saline fog
Strong winds and storms

Quality panels include solid frames, tempered glass. Choosing solid equipment ensures less maintenance difficulties and consistent energy production.

Selecting the Ideal Solar Panels for Your Home

Electrical Masters values safety, consistency, and long-term performance. We suggest adopting solar systems that include:

CEC-approved panels and inverters
Strong warranties with local manufacturer support
High efficiency and strong tolerance to temperature
Guaranteed real-world performance in Australian conditions
Installations completed by authorised professionals

Our skilled team helps you through the entire process from consultation to continuing assistance, making solar installation straightforward, transparent, and stress-free.

How to Choose the Right Solar Panels

Selecting the right solar panels involves evaluating factors such as efficiency, durability, warranty, and price. Here’s what Australian homeowners should consider:

1. Efficiency

Solar panel efficiency measures how effectively panels convert sunlight into electricity. Higher efficiency panels produce more energy in limited roof space, which is important for smaller homes. Look for panels with efficiency ratings above 18% for optimal performance.

2. Durability and Build Quality

Durable panels withstand harsh weather conditions, including high temperatures, heavy rain, and strong winds. Panels made with high-quality materials last longer and maintain performance over time.

3. Warranties and Reliability

A strong warranty indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. Most reliable panels offer 25-year performance guarantees and 10-12 years on product quality. Ensure your system comes with a comprehensive warranty to protect your investment.

4. Technology Type

There are different types of solar panels available:

Monocrystalline: High efficiency and space-saving, ideal for limited roof areas.
Polycrystalline: More affordable, slightly lower efficiency, suitable for larger roofs.
Thin-Film: Lightweight and flexible, but less efficient than crystalline panels.

Choosing the right technology depends on roof space, budget, and energy needs.

5. Brand Reputation

Select solar panels from trusted brands with proven performance in Australia. Reliable brands have good after-sales support and quality assurance, which ensures peace of mind.

The Importance of Proper Installation

Even the best solar panels cannot perform optimally without professional installation. Electrical Masters follows Clean Energy Council (CEC) standards to ensure safe and effective setups.

Correct Panel Orientation: Panels should face north in Australia for maximum sunlight exposure.
Optimal Tilt Angle: Proper angles improve energy output throughout the year.
High-Quality Wiring: Safe and efficient electrical connections prevent energy loss and hazards.
Battery Integration: For homes using storage systems, professional installation ensures compatibility and reliability.

Professional installation not only maximizes efficiency but also protects your warranty and investment.

Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Performance

Maintaining solar panels is simple but essential to ensure peak performance.

Regular Cleaning: Dust, leaves, and debris can reduce efficiency. Clean panels with water and a soft cloth.
Visual Inspections: Check for cracks, loose connections, or shading issues.
Monitoring Output: Use energy monitoring apps or systems to track performance and detect any problems early.
Professional Check-Ups: Schedule periodic inspections with certified technicians to maintain warranty compliance and ensure safety.

Following these maintenance tips ensures your panels continue generating maximum energy for years.

Boosting Energy Output and Reducing Costs

Choosing the right solar panels is simply the first step. Homeowners can further maximise savings and efficiency by:

Adding battery storage: Store extra electricity for usage at night or during grid failures
Monitoring system performance: Use apps and smart meters to track energy output and consumption
Routine maintenance: Inspect and clean panels periodically to maintain optimal performance.

A well-designed system not only saves power bills but also boosts property value and adds to sustainability over time. Call Electrical Masters now to learn how our solar solutions can save you money every month!

Boosting Energy Output and Reducing Costs

Choosing the right solar panels is simply the first step. Homeowners can further maximise savings and efficiency by:

Adding battery storage: Store extra electricity for usage at night or during grid failures
Monitoring system performance: Use apps and smart meters to track energy output and consumption
Routine maintenance: Inspect and clean panels periodically to maintain optimal performance.

Choosing a Solar Installer You Can Trust

Selecting a reputable solar installer is as important as choosing the panels themselves. Electrical Masters follows all Australian solar rules and CEC standards to deliver safe and high-quality installations. A reliable installer provides:

Free consultations and site assessments
Transparent pricing and system recommendations
Assistance with government rebates and incentives
Professional installation, testing, and maintenance support

Working with certified installers ensures a hassle-free experience and long-lasting system performance.

Financial Benefits of Investing in Solar Panels

Investing in solar panels is not just environmentally responsible—it also makes financial sense:

Reduced Electricity Bills: Generate your own energy and pay less to the grid.
Feed-in Tariffs: Sell excess electricity back to the grid for extra savings.
Return on Investment: Solar panels often pay for themselves within 4-7 years, depending on usage and system size.
Energy Security: Reduce exposure to rising electricity prices in the future.

These financial advantages make solar a smart, long-term investment for Australian homeowners.

Conclusion

Investing in solar panels is a long-term decision that brings financial savings, increased energy independence, and a good environmental impact. Choosing a reliable, efficient, and properly installed system ensures that you receive years of continuous performance. At Electrical Masters, we specialise in helping Australian households select the best solar panels, providing guidance, installation, and ongoing support to enhance your system’s efficiency and lifetime. By choosing trustworthy solar solutions, you can enjoy a sustainable and cost-effective energy future with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Do solar panels work well in hot climates?

Yes, but high temperatures may decrease efficiency. This is why choosing panels with strong coefficients of heat is essential for Australian environments.

Q2. What size solar system should I install?

System size depends on your daily energy consumption, roof space, location, and whether you want to add a battery or future EV charging.

Q3. How do I maintain my solar panels?

Regular evaluations, routine cleaning, and performance evaluations help ensure your system performs at its best year-round.

Q4. Are all solar panels eligible for government rebates?

Only CEC-approved panels and installations performed by accredited professionals qualify for Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs).