Businesses must face the realities of a low carbon economy

Purpose – The paper aims to look at the need for businesses become energy efficient in order to face the challenges posed by climate change in the light of a government White Paper advocating the reduction of carbon emmisssions. Design/methodology/approach – The paper looks at research carried out by npower business. Findings – The paper finds that the benefits of a progressive, long‐term energy management program come not only in cost savings, by reducing consumption and avoiding levies associated with carbon emissions, but in being able to demonstrate an on‐going commitment to carbon reduction and the reputational benefits this brings. Originality/value – The paper provides interesting information on the need for corporate energy management.