New Research finds Seven in Ten Irish Businesses are delaying Major Energy Decisions

Bord Gáis Energy launches dedicated business division to support Irish businesses on the Energy Transition and help Reduce Energy Costs

September 2026: New research released today, to coincide with the launch of Bord Gáis Energy’s dedicated business division, provides an insight into Irish businesses’ views on energy costs and the energy transition.

The Power Paradox survey of 125 Irish organisations found:

69% are delaying major energy decisions while waiting for greater certainty.
69% are trying to balance cost, carbon reduction and resilience simultaneously.
22% believe they are unlikely to meet their 2030 emissions targets.
81% are open to experimenting with new energy technologies.
70% prefer flexible funding models such as PPAs and Energy-as-a-Service rather than traditional CAPEX investment.
60% say internal resistance to change is a bigger barrier than technology or funding.
62% are using external partners to accelerate delivery

Bord Gáis Energy’s new business division is a trusted partner for Irish businesses offering energy supply, energy efficiency and net zero capabilities. The new division combines 50 years local experience; specialised solar capability*; global expertise from Centrica Business Solutions; and investment from Centrica plc.

Shane Minehane, Director of Business at Bord Gáis Energy, and formerly Ireland Manager, Centrica Business Solutions said, “The energy system is complex, and energy costs are critical factor impacting business profitability. 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.”

Bord Gáis Energy customer, award-winning Irish chocolatier Lily O'Brien's recently installed a solar PV system, as part of their bespoke energy strategy. The install will pay for itself in three years and generate €1 million 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."

Click here to view Lily O’Brien case study video.

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 16 million kWh of gas consumption at the same time.

Gearoid Lane, Dairygold’s Head of Engineering and Utilities 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.”