- A poll of 1,994 executives across 18 countries found that 90% of businesses expect their operations to be largely electrified by 2035 and believe moving to a renewables‑based electricity system will boost economic growth.
- 72% of respondents say government policies lag behind business ambitions. Without supportive regulation and grid upgrades, 62% would consider relocating operations.
- 91% believe electrification would improve energy security, 88% say it would enhance competitiveness and 84% expect lower long‑term operating costs.
An industry survey has offered one of the clearest signals yet that business leaders worldwide are preparing for, and supportive of, a fully electrified future.
The poll, conducted by consultancy Public First for the climate think‑tank E3G, the We Mean Business Coalition and the Global Renewables Alliance, questioned 1,994 executives and senior managers from companies with revenues above $1 million. Respondents came from 18 countries, including the UK, US, China, India and Nigeria.
The results showed that 90% of executives expect their operations to be largely electrified by 2035. An identical share said moving to a renewables‑based electricity system is likely to boost economic growth. Some 88% believe electrifying operations will make their businesses more competitive, while 91% say it would improve energy security.
Yet this enthusiasm accompanies frustration with public policy: 72% of executives say government policies are lagging behind business ambitions for electrification.
The survey was conducted in late April amid supply disruptions in the Gulf, which may explain why 79% said geopolitical instability makes electrification more urgent. Many executives worry about the availability of clean electricity and the capacity of grids to integrate renewables.
The global corporate appetite for electrification suggests robust future demand for low‑carbon electricity. UK energy developers can take confidence from this demand signal when planning investments in wind, solar and nuclear capacity.
The policy gap also underscores the need for regulatory reform. Businesses are looking for streamlined planning processes, predictable support schemes and clear timetables for phasing out fossil fuel generation. In the UK, grid connection backlogs and planning delays for onshore wind and solar projects risk deterring investment; the survey’s warning about relocation could become reality if infrastructure upgrades stagnate.
The survey also highlights the interplay between energy security and electrification. By shifting to electricity produced from domestic renewables, companies reduce exposure to volatile international fossil fuel markets – a particularly salient point given the recent turmoil in the Strait of Hormuz.
For policymakers, this offers a strategic rationale for accelerating grid upgrades and storage deployment. The forthcoming UK Energy Independence Bill, which seeks to reform grid connections and expand long‑duration storage, should be scrutinised through the lens of this corporate demand.
Finally, the results reveal an opportunity for policymakers to align industrial strategy with climate goals. Executives clearly view electrification as a pathway to competitiveness and resilience; government support could include incentives for on‑site renewables, electrification of industrial processes, and training programmes for workers to operate electric equipment.
