A new report shows that small and mid-sized Irish businesses are emerging as a key driver of the country’s energy transition.
The inaugural Flogas Sustainability Report shows a strong appetite for practical sustainability investments such as solar, renewable electricity and energy efficiency measures.
Flogas said that while geopolitical instability and volatile energy markets are accelerating interest in secure energy solutions, concerns around upfront costs and return on investment continue to hold some businesses back from acting faster.
Today’s report reveals that solar is the top priority for Irish SMEs, with 34% of mid-sized and 31% of small businesses planning to adopt the technology, while 46% of mid-sized firms expect to have solar panels installed this year.
It also notes that to overcome the financial barriers, “Solar-as-a-Service” has emerged as a major trend, with 72% of mid-sized companies now considering this model to meet their energy goals.
Flogas said its survey highlights a widespread desire among businesses in Ireland to adopt sustainable energy solutions, alongside an urgent need for practical, affordable and clear pathways to implementation.
The nationwide study, conducted among 300 business decision-makers in Ireland by iReach Insights on behalf of DCC-owned Flogas, confirms that transitioning to renewable energy is now a critical component of their business strategy.
“Sustainability is now firmly embedded in corporate strategy with 92% of large businesses and 91% of medium-sized businesses considering it important overall and 61% of large companies describing it as “very important,” Flogas said.
Today’s report also notes that upfront cost remains the main factor influencing decision-making across all business sizes, cited by 62% of respondents.
John Rooney, Managing Director at Flogas, said the research shows Irish businesses are motivated and ready to act, particularly given the current uncertain outlook in energy markets, but they are consistently seeking practical, affordable pathways.
“Flogas deeply understands these challenges. Our role is to provide clarity and expert guidance, helping businesses demystify complex ROI and confidently choose the right energy solutions, secure in the knowledge of Flogas’s robust and reliable supply infrastructure across Ireland,” Mr Rooney said.
“Whether it’s starting simple with renewable electricity, exploring on-site solar, or navigating longer-term energy solutions, our primary focus is making the transition simpler and more achievable for all Irish businesses,” he added.
Ken O’Byrne, Commercial Director of Flogas, said one of the most interesting findings in this research is the leadership the company is now seeing from Ireland’s SME community.
“Traditionally, people assumed large corporates would move first on sustainability, but SMEs are increasingly the businesses taking practical action now – particularly where they can see a clear commercial return, energy security benefit or competitive advantage,” Mr Byrne said.
“They are under growing pressure from customers, supply chains and international partners, but they’re also proving highly pragmatic. They want solutions that are commercially realistic, flexible and capable of delivering savings in the near term,” he said.
“That’s why we’re seeing such strong momentum behind areas like solar, renewable electricity and Solar-as-a-Service,” he added.
