Poll indicates business leaders support rapid transition to renewable power

A recent global poll has revealed strong backing from business leaders for a swift transition to renewable energy.

Conducted by Savanta and commissioned by E3G, Beyond Fossil Fuels, and We Mean Business, the poll survey gathered opinions from nearly 1,500 executives across 15 major global economies and emerging markets.

The survey, titled "Powering up: Business perspectives on shifting to renewable electricity", polled 1,477 executives from mid-market and large companies valued at $1m and more.

The poll was conducted between 2 December 2024 and 19 February 2025.

Business leaders worldwide are recognising the critical importance of renewable energy for energy security, economic growth, and long-term competitiveness.

According to the poll, 97% of business leaders support the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources.

A significant 78% of executives are calling for the shift to occur within the next ten years, with two-thirds of those polled stating that gas does not need to be part of the transition.

Additionally, 87% of business leaders want governments to eliminate coal-fired electricity within the same timeframe.

Big businesses are keen on securing a competitive edge and long-term energy security through renewable electricity.

Nearly three-quarters of executives plan to transition their organisations away from fossil fuels within the next decade, with 38% expecting the majority of their electricity to come from renewables in five years.

The poll survey also found that 52% of business leaders are prepared to relocate their operations while 49% plan to move supply chains if their governments fail to meet renewable energy targets.

For many, energy security is the primary benefit of adopting renewables, with 55% emphasising its importance.

Access to renewable energy is a major priority for 90% of business leaders when deciding where to invest.

Furthermore, 93% of organisations are considering investing in on-site renewable energy solutions to support their operations.

Businesses are also urging governments to remove the barriers preventing the transition.

The key challenges identified include insufficient infrastructure to store and distribute renewable electricity, with 38% of leaders raising this concern, and a lack of renewable energy sources, as stated by 37% of respondents.

Other key challenges include policy and regulatory support, with 36% of business leaders highlighting the need for clearer energy policies.

Furthermore, 43% of executives are calling on governments to provide incentives, education, and reskilling programs for workers in industries transitioning to renewable energy.