The higher cost of energy has fuelled demand for Mitie’s power efficiency services, encouraging the FTSE 250 outsourcing specialist to boost its full-year dividend more than 15 per cent.

The group’s energy services – such as installing more efficient boilers and providing advice on power consumption – generate more than a third of Mitie’s total sales.

During the year Mitie signed contracts to provide facilities and energy management for companies including Vodafone and Rolls-Royce, and its long-term order book increased 6 per cent to £6.8bn ($11bn).

“Energy costs are increasing and companies are looking to save money,” said Ruby McGregor-Smith, chief executive. “The services we provide bring down the cost of energy.”