Energy retailers must strengthen their offering to satisfy the rigorous demands of carbon-conscious consumers, according to a new report from energy technology outfit ENTRNCE.
“Trends and opportunities for energy retailers in a net zero market” highlighted that as the UK’s energy system moves away from large, centralised power stations to smaller, nimble, decentralised energy sources, there is a need for “accessible, and reliable data” about energy production at various points in the grid.
At the same time, consumers are demanding renewable energy which is not just green, but verifiably so, the report found.
The report stated: “Organisations of all sizes are facing customer pressure to reduce their environmental impact and are setting climate strategies that will stand up to robust scrutiny.
“They want to apply this kind of scrutiny to their own energy sourcing and will soon expect more transparency from their suppliers.”
The report provides advice for retailers on upcoming policy changes, including the “likely crackdown” on so-called “greenwashing” of renewable energy tariffs.
The government is reviewing the way green tariffs are marketed, and whether the current Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin system is providing customers with enough visibility over their energy sourcing.
Jaron Reddy, UK Business Lead at ENTRNCE, said: “Forthcoming legislation is highly likely to change the landscape, but more importantly, consumers are demanding something different today.
“Our report explains how retailers can get ahead in this competitive space.”