Thursday 10 March 2011

Half of businesses fear costly EMR

More than half of businesses are concerned that the Electricity Market Reform will lead to an increase in energy bills, according to new research.

The findings released today by energy company npower were gathered from 80 professionals responsible for energy management in their organisations.

David Cockshott, Director of Industrial and Commercial Markets at npower said: "It is clear that businesses report very real concerns regarding the proposals in the EMR, particularly while the UK economy is still so fragile, and it is important that the impact the reform strives to achieve is promoted and incentivised to ensure businesses can see the benefits of the proposals.

"At the moment, many of our customers see the proposals as a 'stick, not a carrot' and it is important that this is considered seriously to get the support of major energy users."

The findings coincide with the closing of the EMR consultation period today, and are likely to give DECC its own cause for concern.