Here at Cornwall Insight, we are having more and more conversations about the level and rate of change in energy costs, with the focus having shifted away from immediate wholesale market concerns to the costs associated with non-wholesale parts of the bill – most notably the incoming Nuclear Regulated Asset Base (RAB) charge and the anticipated increase in electricity transmission charges associated with the start of the next price control in April 2026. At the same time, the debate on the future of low carbon levies and their application shows no signs of abating with Rachel Reeves’ second Budget on the horizon.
While there has been extensive analysis and impact assessments undertaken by central bodies such as DESNZ, this has focused on system-wide or economy-wide impacts - leaving a gap of understanding and credible independently sourced data to support the case for UK businesses. To that end, we are working with a number of our end user customers on a dedicated business energy multi-client study that will include a focused review of the implications for existing and planned UK government policies, alongside dedicated quantitative and qualitative modelling to demonstrate the impacts on real-world examples.
The purpose of the project will therefore be to examine opportunities and challenges to business customers from the net zero transition and to:
Drawing on our extensive consulting and modelling expertise, will will identify and assess the key opportunities and cost challenges that businesses will face in the run up to 2030 and beyond. Providing in-depth, cost-effective market insights, forecasts of future trends and the development of strategic conclusions and actionable outcomes.
The purpose of the project will therefore be to examine opportunities and challenges to business customers from the net zero transition and to:
- Assess potential opportunities and identify contractual and investment options to create a blueprint for maximising benefits and mitigating risks from the energy transition.
- Provide insight to other companies’ approaches Utilise relevant tools to allow a systemic approach to the assessment and prioritisation of opportunities.
- Identify potential solutions and provide evidence in support of these.
- Provide a prioritised list of energy transition opportunities and best practice approaches for participants.
As a multi-client study, the project has many benefit to its participants including:
- Cost-effectiveness - reducing the financial burden on individual companies compared to a standalone project,
- Broader market insights - deep, comprehensive data and analysis on major industry trends, opportunities, and developments within their sector and beyond.
- Strategic planning - conclusions and forecasts to help clients prepare for market changes, develop new strategies, and improve decision-making processes; and
- Access to expert knowledge - direct engagement with subject matter experts and their extensive knowledge providing insights that go beyond traditional market research reports.
If you would like to know more about this opportunity, or are interested in being a participant, please contact Craig Lowrey at: c.lowrey@cornwall-insight.com
