A recent survey has highlighted that business leaders are not just discussing renewable energy—they are prepared to commit their future to it. Conducted among 1,500 executives across 15 countries, the poll revealed that 97% support transitioning away from fossil fuels to clean energy. Additionally, 52% indicated a willingness to relocate operations if their country fails to provide clean energy access.
The survey, facilitated by Savanta for U.K. NGOs E3G, Beyond Fossil Fuels, and the We Mean Business Coalition, suggests that companies now view renewable energy as vital for their survival. Leaders cited energy security, economic growth, and competitive advantage as primary motivations. Among those surveyed, 77% considered renewables essential for economic growth, and 75% linked clean energy to job creation. Globally, 75% associated renewables with greater energy independence, a perspective especially prevalent in Germany, where 78% of business leaders viewed renewable energy as essential to reducing reliance on volatile energy imports.
Stuart Lemmon, global head of practices, sustainability, at Schneider Electric, explained that companies adopting renewable energy are positioning themselves for future success by enhancing competitiveness, accelerating innovation, and achieving long-term cost savings. According to Lemmon, renewable energy is not only a sustainable practice but also a critical strategy for businesses focused on growth, resilience, and long-term success.
The survey also underscored the urgency executives feel about transitioning to renewables: 78% want their companies to adopt 100% green energy within the next decade. Not waiting for national grids to catch up, 93% of businesses surveyed are considering investments in on-site renewable energy generation, with 50% planning to do so within five years.
Nick Mabey, CEO of E3G, emphasized that this is no longer about distant climate goals but about immediate business survival and gaining a competitive edge.
Despite recent U.S. federal policy shifts to reduce renewable energy incentives, American business leaders remain committed to the green transition, with 65% of U.S. executives supporting a direct shift to renewables. Worldwide, 63% of leaders believe that governments should prioritize investment in green energy over fossil fuels.
Maria Mendiluce, CEO of the We Mean Business Coalition, stated that the shift from fossil fuels is driven by companies recognizing clean energy as essential for long-term advantage, job creation, and energy price stability. Mendiluce added that business leaders want to increase their investments in renewables and require governmental support to accelerate planning and remove permitting delays for renewable energy, storage, and grids.
The survey revealed barriers to the energy transition, with leaders identifying upfront costs, cited by 46%, as a significant challenge. Insufficient electricity infrastructure was a concern for more than two-thirds (38%) of respondents, and a lack of government financing for renewables troubled one-third.
The findings are significant not only within the business community but also in a broader social context. A global survey last year showed that 89% of people demand stronger political action on climate change. However, the researchers noted a “perception gap,” with many underestimating the level of support from others. They concluded that the majority globally are willing to act against climate change and expect government action.
This information was published on Fortune.com.
