New Report Reveals Energy Preferences and Challenges for U.S. Small Businesses

The “Understanding the SMB Landscape: New Needs and Concerns” report from the Smart Energy Consumer Collaborative (SECC) provides insights into the energy-related needs and concerns of small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in the United States.

The study indicates that a significant number of SMBs are interested in participating in demand response programs, with 73% expressing interest, and 74% showing interest in electrifying non-electric operations.

Based on a survey of 750 energy decision-makers at businesses with fewer than 500 employees, the report identifies four key SMB personas.

Energized Enterprises prefer time-of-use (TOU) rates, are actively engaged with their electricity usage, and participate in provider programs. These businesses have diverse needs that require tailored solutions.

Opportunistic Organizations see electricity as a significant expense and participate in energy efficiency programs that meet their specific business needs, representing a growth opportunity for providers.

Small & Satisfied businesses consider electricity a minor expense, typically have fewer employees, smaller spaces, and lower bills, leading to less need for energy efficiency measures.

Entrenched Businesses are well-established, often with long-standing accounts with their providers. These businesses are less inclined to change and have the lowest participation rates in energy programs.

The report also examines current program participation, satisfaction levels with electricity providers, and barriers to energy-efficient improvements. The findings are intended to help stakeholders develop effective engagement strategies for SMBs.

A webinar discussing the report’s key findings will be held on Tuesday, June 18 at 1 p.m. (ET), featuring SECC’s President & CEO Nathan Shannon and guest speakers from Uplight, Honeywell, Dominion Energy, and research partner Maru/Matchbox.