05 March 2024

Richard Henderson, senior consultant, Critical Power Supplies

In a landscape increasingly shaped by environmental imperatives, recent data from Critical Power Supplies (CPS) unveils a significant dissonance: over half of UK businesses find themselves unprepared for the looming Net Zero 2050 targets, despite a palpable upsurge in interest in sustainable energy solutions. The findings, derived from a thorough survey conducted by CPS, not only underscore the urgent need for preparedness but also spotlight the evolving challenges and opportunities as demand for sustainable power solutions escalates.

CPS’s survey, conducted in October 2023, engaged a diverse spectrum of stakeholders, including business leaders, facilities managers, technology managers, and energy managers. The objective was clear: to gauge the level of preparedness among UK businesses for Net Zero 2050 targets, delve into readiness for potential energy supply disruptions, and unearth the multifaceted challenges encountered in transitioning to renewable energy sources.

Amid mounting concerns over climate change, a staggering 68% of respondents acknowledged the anticipated surge in demand for back-up power solutions, driven by a collective endeavour to meet sustainability targets. Furthermore, nearly half (48%) underscored the critical importance of formulating a comprehensive energy resiliency plan, one that encompasses robust back-up power capabilities. However, despite these acknowledgements, a concerning 57% confessed to being unprepared to handle future energy shortages and disruptions, laying bare the existing chasm between aspiration and readiness.

One of the pivotal revelations of the survey was the glaring absence of transition plans towards renewable energy sources. Alarmingly, a mere 13% of respondents reported having a Net Zero transition plan in place, a factor that could significantly impede their capacity to navigate future energy disruptions effectively. This deficit in strategic foresight poses a formidable challenge, demanding urgent attention and proactive intervention from stakeholders across industries.

The survey identified cost as the primary stumbling block to transitioning to renewable energy sources for back-up power, with a staggering 78% of respondents citing initial investment costs as a major deterrent. Moreover, a substantial cohort (33%) anticipated no cost savings, while 28% envisaged only minimal savings, underscoring the prevailing apprehension surrounding the economic feasibility of sustainable energy solutions. Equally concerning is the revelation that 61% of respondents remained oblivious to the government support and incentives available, pointing towards a pervasive knowledge gap that impedes informed decision-making and resource allocation.

Jill Griffiths of Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust offered a poignant reflection on the economic challenges inherent in achieving Net Zero goals within the NHS infrastructure. She underscored the imperative for greater government support or local partnerships to mitigate the financial burden and ensure the viability of sustainability initiatives. Similarly, Steve Groom, CEO of Vissensa, sounded a cautionary note, highlighting the delicate balance between environmental imperatives and economic competitiveness. His remarks underscored the pressing need for a nuanced approach that safeguards both environmental stewardship and economic resilience.

Jason Koffler, CEO of CPS, offered a comprehensive analysis of the survey findings, emphasising the dual challenge confronting businesses in their response to climate change. He stressed the imperative of reducing environmental impact while simultaneously building resilience against its cascading effects, advocating for a holistic approach that integrates renewable energy solutions with robust backup strategies. Koffler’s insights underscored the pivotal role of businesses in driving the transition towards a sustainable future, underscoring the imperative for collective action and strategic foresight.

In conclusion, the survey findings serve as a clarion call for UK businesses to recalibrate their priorities and redouble their efforts in pursuit of Net Zero 2050 targets. By embracing renewable energy solutions, addressing barriers such as cost and knowledge gaps, and fostering collaborative partnerships, businesses can not only mitigate environmental impact but also safeguard their long-term viability in a rapidly evolving energy landscape.