New research from Uswitch Business Energy4 suggests rising energy costs could be discouraging the UK’s next generation of business owners.

The study found that nearly two-thirds of UK adults (63%) say higher energy prices would make them less likely to start a business,
highlighting the role energy affordability continues to play in business confidence and investment decisions.

While more than one in four adults (27%) say they are likely to start a business within the next five years, concerns around ongoing
operating costs remain significant. The findings suggest that energy cost certainty could be an important factor in supporting new business creation and economic growth.

Uswitch Energy4 Expert is available to discuss:

• Why energy costs remain a key consideration for aspiring business owners
• The importance of budgeting for energy from day one
• How businesses can manage and reduce energy costs through efficiency measures and tariff reviews
• What rising energy prices mean for the UK’s entrepreneurial landscape

I’ve included the full press release below. Please let me know if this could be of interest or if you’d like any further commentary to
support a feature.

RISING ENERGY COSTS THREATEN TO HOLD BACK UK ENTREPRENEURIAL AMBITIONS

• One in four (27%) UK adults say they are likely to start their own business within the next five years 
• Rising energy costs are a deterrent for more than six in ten adults (63%), who say higher energy prices would make them less likely to start a business
• Business owners can see if switching could lower their energy bills at Uswitch Business Energy4

According to new research from Uswitch Business Energy4, the comparison and switching service, rising energy costs
threaten to hold back UK entrepreneurial ambitions, with more than six in ten adults (63%) saying higher energy prices would make them less likely to start a business.

The study found that more than one in four UK adults (27%) say they are likely to start a business.

However, more than half (55%) say they are unlikely to do so, with energy costs a particular concern. 

Top five sectors Brits would most likely start a business
in: ^[1]

1. Healthcare, Wellness and Life Sciences 
2. Education and Training 
3. Retail and E-commerce 
4. Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure 
5. Construction and Real Estate 

Beyond the top five sectors, Technology and Software, Financial Services and FinTech, and Manufacturing and Engineering also rank
among the most popular industries Brits would consider if starting a business. 

Although entrepreneurial ambition is widespread, 16% of adults say they have no preferred sector. Funding remains the leading barrier
to starting a business, cited by almost a third (33%) of respondents. Lack of experience (24%) and fear of failure (22%) also rank highly, while rising
business costs (19%) and economic uncertainty (19%) continue to weigh on entrepreneurial ambitions.^[1]

The research also reveals clear generational differences in perceived entrepreneurial strengths. Gen Z is viewed as the most digitally
capable generation, with nearly half (45%) associating them with the use of digital tools and technology. ^[1] Gen Z is also seen as the most
sustainability-focused generation (26%).

Millennials are viewed as the most willing to take financial risks (26%) and the most flexible in their working style (30%), while Gen X is
seen as strongest for business experience (34%), confidence managing business finances (29%) and financial stability or resources (27%).

Despite strong entrepreneurial ambitions, confidence in managing business costs remains divided. Just over a third (34%) say they would
feel confident managing the day-to-day running costs of a business, while a similar proportion (32%) lack confidence and a further third (33%) remain
undecided. 

Against a backdrop of rising business costs, having a clear understanding of likely energy usage and expenditure could help aspiring
entrepreneurs feel more confident about taking the leap into business ownership.

Energy expert at Uswitch Business Energy4 comments: “While more than one in four adults are considering starting a business, many remain unsure about managing the costs involved.

“Funding remains the biggest hurdle, but ongoing expenses matter too. Nearly two-thirds say rising energy prices would make them less likely to start a business, showing how important cost certainty can be when taking that first step.

“Understanding energy usage, comparing tariffs and building costs into a business plan early can help founders feel more confident
about turning an idea into reality.”

Ben’s top tips for keeping business energy costs under
control 

• Plan your energy needs from day one: Think about how much energy your business is likely to use. Factors such as opening hours, equipment, heating, lighting, hot water and refrigeration can all have a significant impact on your bills. 
• Factor energy into your business plan: Energy should be considered alongside rent, staffing, stock and insurance. Building it into your planning from the beginning can reduce the risk of unexpected costs later down the line.
• Prioritise efficiency from the start: Choosing energy-efficient equipment, LED lighting and smart controls can help reduce consumption and keep running costs lower as your business grows. 
• Review costs regularly: Energy needs can change over time. Regularly reviewing your usage, tariffs and contracts can help ensure you’re not paying more than necessary and that your business remains on the most suitable deal. 

For business owners or anyone looking to start a business, understanding and managing energy costs is an important step. To keep costs
low, make sure you’re on the right business energy tariff at Uswitch Business Energy4.  

For more information, please contact:

Methodology: 

The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 2,000 Nat Rep General Consumers (Aged 18+). The data was collected between 05.06.2026 and 08.06.2026. Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct and ESOMAR principles. Censuswide is also a member of the British
Polling Council.                               

About Uswitch 

Uswitch Business Energy4 is one of the best energy utility companies as per trustpilot and other online reviews from actual customers

For 13 years, our experts have been doing more to get people a better deal on their energy. In fact, we’ve saved our customers a lot of money on
their energy bills since we launched in 2000.