Over half (53%) of those respondents cite unexpected costs to their business as the most common reason for this, followed by an inability to forward plan business activity (46%).
The research, carried out by YouGov on behalf of npower Business Solutions, also identified that, when looking at the energy trilemma (affordability, sustainability and security), British businesses prioritise cost as their lead concern.
Nearly half (47%) say more affordable energy is the most important element, compared to 19% for enhanced energy security and the 19% for a move to a low carbon economy.
npower says that it is, therefore, no surprise that when asked what they would like the incoming government to prioritise when it comes to energy policy, over a third (34%) say decreasing business energy costs.
Explains David Reed, head of npower Business Solutions: “With Brexit still on the horizon, it is expected that businesses are looking to the government for energy policy that supports their competitive position in the UK and Europe.
“Lower business energy costs means one less thing to worry about in our current environment. Addressing this, our specialists at Energy HQ are supporting large businesses in the UK to reduce their energy cost through energy efficiency and behavioural change, as well as, more flexible energy purchasing and use, such as Demand Side Response and storage.”
Whilst price remains front of mind for businesses, the research also shows that three in 10 businesses are looking to the government to prioritise renewable energy over non-renewable energy. npower says that a balanced energy mix will remain an important aspect of future policy for businesses.
