Results of the NET ZERO survey: What are the opportunities and challenges for businesses in Mid Wales?

78 businesses took part in the survey. Here are the top 5 takeaway points from the results:

1. Businesses recognise the benefits that the transition to net zero could unlock in the region. Particularly the role that small-scale renewable energy projects, linking business and residential properties, could play in boosting economic growth.
2. Lack of resources, grid capacity constraints and the green skills gap were the top three barriers stopping decarbonisation projects moving from conceptual stage to delivery. Dr Gemma Delafield, our Regional Energy Officer, will continue to work with key stakeholders, particularly Welsh Government, the Regional Skills Partnership, and the energy networks, to address these challenges.
3. Businesses need support to understand what options are available to them to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. A third of businesses surveyed said they were not knowledgeable or only slightly knowledgeable about what net zero means for their business.
4. Specific support is required to address the challenges faced by Mid Wales businesses. Respondents highlighted it was difficult to get advice tailored towards SMEs and rural buildings. It is essential that the right incentives and support are given to ensure a just transition to net zero. Particularly given 60% of business surveyed said they do not currently have any plans to decarbonise their activities.
5. There are opportunities to share best practice and lessons learnt across the region. There are many forward-thinking businesses within Mid Wales who have already installed innovate technologies including: on-site solar PV, electric vehicle charging points, heat pumps, and battery storage solutions.
   
   

These trends echo what other surveys have shown across the UK (e.g. SME Climate Hub survey, Ecologi survey) and align with calls from leading academics to increase the amount of support available to SMEs. 

The insights from the survey were used to organise the 'Sustainable business solutions' event to continue the discussion. Insights from businesses are being used to shape future funding initiatives, inform electricity grid investments, and ensure tailored support is available to local enterprises.