Renewable energy key to clean future, say Manufacturers

New research from Haven Power, one of the UK's largest business electricity suppliers, reveals over 60% of businesses in the manufacturing industry think renewable energy solutions are the key to ensuring a clean future. Additionally, half of those surveyed believe more needs to be done to reduce carbon emissions.

The survey of Utility Decision Makers in the manufacturing industry showed that energy usage was their top business priority (66%), ahead of both employment (47%) and office management (46%) – putting them in front of most other industries when it comes to energy consciousness.

Manufacturers also put their own sector at the top of the list when being asked who is responsible for lowering carbon emissions (59%), versus energy suppliers (48%) and the Government (45%). In comparison, businesses in the hospitality and entertainment industry aren't likely to make sustainable changes as they don't believe it's a priority to their customers.

Paul Sheffield, Chief Operating Officer at Haven Power, commented: "It's extremely encouraging to see that the proportion of businesses in this sector believe in renewables. However, two of the biggest barriers stopping manufacturers implementing sustainable change were cost (37%) and lack of Government support (32%), meaning there is still work to be done."

Paul Sheffield continued: "Understanding of renewable energy and its benefits varies greatly from sector to sector, but it's great to see businesses in the manufacturing industry are taking steps towards a more sustainable future. We believe that every industry needs to implement change to help 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 viewing energy 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.

*Research conducted on behalf of Haven Power, by OnePoll in July 2018. 1,000 Utility Decision Makers age 18 or over were surveyed.