have actively searched for information that may help them bring down their energy bills or reduce their energy use.
didn't recall hearing or seeing any media or communications on how to reduce their energy use in the past 12 months.
said they have undertaken an energy audit for their small business
said that government financial incentives would encourage them to reduce their energy use.
Small businesses will play a major role in decarbonising the economy. However, they have unique needs that must be considered. It cannot be assumed that their timelines, decision making processes, and pathways to reach this goal will be the same as households.
We commissioned the Insight Centre to discover how best to communicate with small businesses regarding energy.
This report is based on the results of a national survey of 400 small business energy consumers and complements research that was conducted into communicating about energy with households. The findings reveal where small businesses are looking for information on energy, who they trust for information, and what barriers they face to action.
Key findings
Small businesses need further support to understand the ‘best bang for buck’ actions they can take to reduce their energy use and bring down their bills.
The absence of clear, trusted and practical advice is leaving small business owners lacking the confidence to act and without trust in the energy market. However, the good news is that if offered help, many small business owners would take actions.
There is an evident need for clear, relevant communications on the high impact steps small business owners can take to reduce their energy use and costs.
Small business energy consumers have the intention to act, they just need assistance to turn that intention into action.
