UK Businesses Must Lead on Net Zero: The Key Role of Onsite Generation

Hello, Champions of Net Zero!
The journey towards a sustainable future is more critical now than ever, especially as the UK edges closer to achieving its clean energy and net zero targets. A recent publication titled ‘Clean Power 2030’ by the National Systems Energy Operator (NESO) sheds light on the enormous challenge that lies ahead. The report concludes that while reaching the government’s 2030 targets is feasible, it necessitates substantial investment and a sweeping reform of our energy infrastructure.
In this transformative phase, both public and private sector organisations across the nation are poised to play pivotal roles in realising these ambitious targets. The expectation from the public is clear: businesses must lead by example. A recent survey conducted among over 2,000 UK consumers has unveiled some striking insights regarding public sentiment towards corporate responsibility in sustainability efforts.
According to the research, a significant 56% of respondents believe that businesses need to enhance their sustainability initiatives if the UK is to meet its net zero goals. This sentiment is further echoed by an overwhelming 70% who assert that companies should face serious consequences for failing to prioritise sustainability.
Moreover, one in three respondents (30%) strongly feels that the government should hold companies accountable for not meeting net zero targets. Additionally, a notable 43% believe that businesses should bear the majority, if not all, of the responsibility for achieving these crucial goals. However, despite this strong advocacy for corporate accountability, a sense of scepticism looms large, with 50% of those surveyed expressing doubts about the achievability of the net zero target, and nearly one in five (19%) remaining uncertain.
Amidst this climate of uncertainty, the research also highlights a significant opportunity for businesses that invest in sustainable solutions. More than two-thirds (69%) of respondents stated that a company’s commitment to sustainability and its use of renewable energy are vital considerations when making purchasing decisions. This is a critical factor that should influence sustainable investment choices.
However, one of the well-documented challenges faced by the UK in its quest for renewable energy is the delay in securing grid connections, particularly for large generation and storage projects. This bottleneck threatens the UK’s renewable energy goals and poses a hindrance to economic growth. Such challenges can slow down the momentum for businesses eager to transition to clean energy and adopt more sustainable practices.
In this context, onsite renewable generation emerges as a potential game changer.
Building the Business Case for Onsite Renewable Energy
A growing number of businesses are now considering the installation of onsite renewable generation and storage systems. The business case for this shift is compelling: it provides a proven method to reduce energy costs, manage carbon emissions, and navigate the volatile landscape of energy pricing.
For over two years, businesses have grappled with significant volatility in wholesale energy markets, which poses a major risk factor. Onsite generation offers a way to mitigate this risk, eliminating dependence on wholesale markets and providing much-needed cost certainty.
The recent NESO report outlines two pathways to achieving clean power by 2030: ‘Further Flex and Renewables’ and ‘New Dispatch’. It has also initiated a consultation process to reform the connections process, aiming to “reduce and reorder the queue by prioritising ready projects and aligning with locational and technological needs for the future energy system.” However, the implementation of these changes will take time, making onsite renewable generation a crucial component of the transition.
For instance, the installation of advanced DC-coupled solar and battery systems empowers businesses to generate and manage their own energy. This technology allows for the connection of four to five times more solar capacity on their premises than what is typically permitted by local networks. Such systems significantly reduce grid dependence and pave the way towards achieving net zero by maximising onsite renewable deployment.
By storing excess energy and utilising it on-site, businesses can continue to lower emissions, reduce costs, and enhance their energy resilience. Furthermore, a well-designed battery system can serve as backup power during grid failures, enabling businesses to move away from reliance on diesel generators.
Perhaps most importantly, there is a clear commercial incentive for investing in onsite renewable energy in terms of attracting new customers and bolstering customer loyalty. The research underscores that consumers are increasingly inclined to support responsible businesses, making sustainability a key consideration in their purchasing decisions.
Playing Your Role in Net Zero
Our recent research sheds light on the expectations UK consumers have regarding businesses and their commitments to net zero. While many companies are already taking significant strides in this direction, the survey results indicate that there is still ample room for improvement. The public strongly believes that businesses should take a leading role in the UK’s decarbonisation journey.
Ultimately, for those businesses capable of implementing onsite renewable energy systems, the choice to invest is not solely an environmental one. It is also a sound commercial and reputational decision.
This research highlights that businesses that take proactive steps towards sustainability will not only contribute to reducing carbon emissions but will also strengthen their market position and foster lasting relationships with consumers who prioritise responsible practices.
In these times of rapid change and increasing public scrutiny, businesses have a unique opportunity to lead the charge towards a sustainable future. By embracing onsite renewable energy solutions, they can not only comply with regulatory expectations but also align themselves with the values of their consumers.
The full report containing detailed findings and recommendations is available here.
This article originally appeared in the January/February 2025 issue of Energy Manager magazine. To stay informed on the latest developments in energy management and sustainability, subscribe here.