The Energy Bill Crunch: What Mid‑Sized Businesses Must Do
Facing a “bill‑bust” without the relief scheme
When the Energy Bill Relief Scheme lapses in March, mid‑market companies (the ones that aren’t huge conglomerates but also aren’t tiny startups) are staring down a financial cliff. According to the latest Business Outlook Tracker by Grant Thornton UK LLP, a whopping 32 % of the 600 firms surveyed say they’re forcing the price tag up when the gas gets more expensive. Think of it as a “price‑hike” party, but only the business side gets invited.
Cutting costs in more places than just the power bill
While some are ready to raise prices, 35 % of respondents say they’ll look for other budget‑saves across the board. That could mean trimming marketing budgets, cutting out staff perks, or even making that smart suggestion to put the budget in a safer account.
The risk of going belly‑deep in debt
If no extra help comes to the table, about 11 % expect to double down on borrowing—or worse, shut down entirely. It’s like watching a slow‑motion crash in a high‑speed game of Monopoly.
What Grant Thornton’s Chris Petts says
“The End of the Energy Bill Relief Scheme” is no longer a flash‑in‑the‑pan—it’s a real forecast.As the scheme folds in March, businesses can’t expect a smooth transition to a new plan. The upcoming Energy Bills Discount Scheme only kicks in if wholesale prices boom past set thresholds. Guess what? Most businesses aren’t busting into that bubble.
The three hard choices
“Entrepreneurs will see a spike in corporation tax from April 1. Time to beef up energy-saving tech, generate your own power, and budget for higher prices. Those who have already mapped scenarios and can adapt are standing the best chance.”
Quick‑tips for surviving the shockwave
Take the gamble, but plan well.
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