Survey Highlights a Clear Confidence Gap
We’ve reviewed fresh EDF research that points to a mismatch between how prepared UK businesses say they feel and the practical hurdles they face. While 86% claim they can handle energy price volatility, 74% admit managing supplies and costs has grown more complex over the past three years. Wholesale price swings remain the top worry for 49% of respondents, but contracts, regulation, new technology and data visibility are adding layers of difficulty.
Real Impacts on Day-to-Day Operations
Almost half (48%) say the extra complexity is making budgeting harder, 47% report lower confidence in long-term planning and 43% note it is slowing investment decisions. The research, based on 500 senior decision-makers surveyed by Censuswide between 9 and 16 June 2026, suggests some firms may be underestimating the pace of change as the UK moves toward Clean Power 2030 goals.
What Businesses Say They Need Next
More than half want greater flexibility in contracts (57%) and better support managing risk (53%), with 45% seeking help on decarbonisation. Education, construction and retail sectors show particularly strong interest in flexible options. Christopher Dalley, Director of Business and Wholesale Services at EDF, said: “The businesses that get ahead will be the ones that stop viewing energy simply as a cost to manage. Decisions around how they buy and use energy, and where they invest, will increasingly shape their competitiveness.”
Businesses can review current options and see how different tariffs fit their usage on our energy comparison pages.
