WEALTH September 22, 2026 0 Comments

Why 70% of Irish Companies Are Putting Critical Energy Moves on Ice—And What It Means for Your Bottom Line

Ever wonder why nearly seven in ten Irish businesses are hitting the pause button on major energy decisions? It’s not just indecision—it’s a high-wire act balancing cost, carbon goals, and resilience in a world where certainty feels more like a unicorn than reality. According to Bord Gáis Energy’s latest research, 69% of organizations are walking this tightrope, wrestling with how to keep the lights on, the planet cool, and the finances intact—all at the same time. But here’s the kicker: while 81% are game to try new energy tech, 60% are stuck battling internal resistance stronger than any funding or tech hurdles. So, what’s the secret sauce to moving forward without tipping over? Maybe it’s about embracing flexible funding models, tapping expert partners, and taking bold leaps like Irish chocolatier Lily O’Brien’s, who’s already reaping €1 million in energy savings from solar PV investments. In this landscape of uncertainty, those who innovate will thrive—and those who don’t might just get left in the dark. LEARN MORE

Seven in 10 (69%) Irish businesses are delaying major energy decisions as they wait for greater certainty on costs and the energy transition.

Research from Bord Gáis Energy shows the same proportion (69%) of the 125 Irish organisations surveyed are trying to balance cost, carbon reduction and resilience simultaneously.

A fifth (22%) of businesses believe they are now unlikely to meet their 2030 emissions targets, and 81% are open to experimenting with new energy technologies.

Some 70% prefer flexible funding models such as PPAs and Energy-as-a-Service rather than traditional capital expenditure investment.

However, six in 10 (60%) say internal resistance to change is a bigger barrier than technology or funding, and 62% are using external partners to accelerate delivery.

“The energy system is complex, and energy costs are a critical factor impacting business profitability,” said Shane Minehane, director of business at Bord Gáis Energy.

“A dedicated business unit providing integrated solutions and expert guidance will be a valuable ally to Irish businesses – reducing costs, improving efficiency, and accelerating progress towards a lower-carbon future.”

Award-winning Irish chocolatier and Bord Gáis Energy customer Lily O’Brien’s recently installed a solar PV system, as part of its bespoke energy strategy.

The installation will pay for itself in three years and generate €1m in energy savings over its lifetime.

Michelle Vance, CEO of Lily O’Brien’s, said: “The solar installation allows us to generate renewable electricity on-site, helping to reduce carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency as part of our broader sustainability ambitions.

“The process was straightforward from start to finish, and the business case was compelling, with the investment expected to pay for itself in just over three years.

“The projected energy savings over the lifetime of the system are significant, and we’re already exploring opportunities to expand the installation and identify further ways to improve efficiency across the business.”

Bord Gáis Energy installed and commissioned a 2.4MW ammonia Heat Pump system at Dairygold’s Cork facility.

The installation has reduced the dairy cooperative’s carbon emissions by around 3,000 tonnes every year, while displacing more than 16m kWh of gas consumption at the same time.

Gearoid Lane, head of engineering and utilities at Dairygold, said: “This project highlights how investment in innovative technologies supports both sustainability objectives and operational performance.

“By capturing and reusing waste energy, the heat pump reduces carbon emissions and natural gas consumption while enhancing operational efficiency. It represents an important step in strengthening the resilience and sustainability of our business.”

Photo: (l-r) Shane Minehane and Michelle Vance. (Pic: Supplied)