New research from Haven Power, one of the UK’s largest business electricity suppliers, reveals two-fifths (40%) of businesses in London think renewable energy is just a passing trend.
Despite this, the survey of utility decision makers at London businesses showed that they are taking the most action, with the capital being the region most likely to have an onsite battery storage facility (43%) compared to Wales where only 11% have this facility.
The biggest barrier preventing businesses from implementing sustainable change was cost (42%), followed by the amount of time it took to research the different options (27%) and uncertainty by energy decision makers on how to discuss with senior management (26%).
Paul Sheffield, Chief Operating Officer at Haven Power, commented: “It’s concerning to see the proportion of businesses in London that still view renewable energy as a passing trend, despite evidence showing that a move to cleaner energy is essential for the environment. It’s clear more needs to be done to demonstrate the wider opportunities and benefits of renewable energy for businesses.”
Conversely, 57% of London based businesses think renewables are the key to a cleaner future, with just under two-thirds keen to start producing their own energy. London businesses are also the most savvy at getting their energy supplier to help with their CSR (54%), compared to businesses in the West Midlands (47%) or in the South West (37%).
When asked to list whose responsibility it is to lower carbon emissions, London businesses cited manufacturers and energy suppliers equally at the top (51%), followed by businesses (38%). London businesses also strongly believe it is the energy provider’s responsibility to educate them on the different types of energy available (52%), compared to (29%) of businesses across the South West or 23% in Scotland.
Paul Sheffield continued: “Understanding of renewable energy and its benefits varies greatly from region to region. We believe that every industry across the UK need to start taking positive steps to reduce carbon emissions and embrace cleaner energy. It’s imperative that organisations of all sizes work together with their energy provider to ensure the future of British business is low carbon. By moving beyond energy being viewed as a commodity, we can help to drive sustainability and profitability. Here at Haven Power we are keen to help businesses understand the wider benefits of renewables.”
Haven Power is one of the UK’s largest business electricity suppliers, founded over ten years ago, it aims to help businesses control spend, manage risk and boost sustainability by using renewable electricity, energy efficiency and bespoke energy solutions.
Leave a Comment