A global survey of mid-sized and large business executives across 15 countries reveals near-unanimous support for a transition away from fossil fuels to renewable electricity. The poll, commissioned by E3G, Beyond Fossil Fuels, and We Mean Business Coalition, indicates a growing corporate preference for renewables, highlighting energy security, economic growth, and competitiveness as key drivers.
Key findings:
- Strong support for renewables: 97% of business leaders favour moving away from fossil fuels, with 78% supporting a shift to renewable electricity by 2035 or earlier.
- Competitiveness and relocation risks: Over half of the respondents say they would consider relocating operations or supply chains to countries with better renewable energy access.
- Energy security and economic growth: 75% associate renewables with stronger energy security and job creation, while 77% see them as essential for economic growth.
- Phasing out coal and avoiding gas: 87% of pro-renewables businesses want governments to stop using coal-fired power within ten years. 67% support replacing coal with renewables and storage, without new gas infrastructure.
- Policy lag and investment uncertainty: Businesses are urging governments to provide clearer transition plans, incentives, and faster permitting processes.
Country-specific insights:
- Brazil: 89% support a transition to renewables by 2035. Wind and solar are viewed as key to energy resilience beyond hydropower.
- India and Indonesia: Over 90% back moving away from coal within a decade despite reliance on it.
- Australia: 60% cite job creation as a primary benefit; economic stagnation feared if transition lags.
- Türkiye: Business leaders cite fossil fuel lobbying as a major obstacle to progress.
- UK: Energy security benefits are widely acknowledged, but delays in permitting remain a concern.
- Poland: Strong corporate backing for a complete coal phase-out within ten years.
Businesses are calling for clearer policy direction, investible national climate plans, and workforce reskilling to ensure a just and effective transition.
