A survey of almost 3,500 companies by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) showed that although 63 per cent are keen to improve their energy efficiency, only 56 per cent take a positive view of government energy efficiency programmes.
Energy security was a major issue of concern with 59 per cent of large businesses, 44 per cent of medium-small sized businesses and 38 per cent of small businesses worried about their future energy supply.
The survey revealed that 90 per cent of businesses believe the UK requires a more “diverse energy mix” to tackle supply security risks.
Adam Marshall, director of policy at the BCC, said: “Energy security is one of the most profound challenges facing the UK, and government energy policies require clarity and consistency to ensure that it meets the challenge.”
Affordability was also cited as a problem, with 40 per cent of businesses saying rising energy costs had limited their growth.
“As the government embarks on far reaching reforms, it must also ensure that policy changes do not mean excessive costs for business,” added Marshall. “We are concerned that once the carbon floor price comes into force, it will increase costs for all businesses and negatively impact on the competitiveness of the UK. During a difficult economic time policies should not be considered that negatively affect the affordability of energy for businesses.”