Pinergy research finds gaps in energy monitoring and leadership as businesses plan for 2026.
Irish businesses are prioritising cost efficiencies over environmental concerns as they push ahead with sustainability strategies for the year ahead, according to new research from energy transition company Pinergy.
The study, conducted with iReach Insights, shows that 68% of firms cite cost savings as the main reason for investing in sustainable initiatives.
A further 26% are motivated by the need to shield themselves from energy price volatility, while 33% point to regulatory compliance.
Energy monitoring gap
Despite strong intentions to adopt technologies such as solar panels and electric vehicle fleets, the research highlights two structural weaknesses.
Almost half of businesses actively monitor energy usage, but 25% only check consumption when bills arrive and 29% admit to no monitoring at all. Pinergy describes this as an “energy monitoring gap”.
The report also identifies a “sustainability leadership vacuum”, with 28% of companies saying no individual or department is formally responsible for energy management or sustainability. This lack of accountability, the study suggests, risks slowing progress.
“Businesses are treating sustainability as a strategic imperative driven by the bottom line,” said Daire Keating, chief commercial officer at Pinergy.
“The desire for cost savings and energy independence is a powerful catalyst for change. However, you cannot manage what you do not measure, and without clear ownership, initiatives can lose momentum.”
Keating added that companies are missing opportunities to optimise energy use and accelerate their transition to a more predictable and cost-efficient future.
Other findings include:
- Forty per cent of businesses have set carbon reduction targets for 2026, with another 24% considering them.
- Solar adoption is rising, with 43% already using panels and 24% planning installations this year.
- Twenty-one per cent of firms not currently using renewable electricity intend to switch in 2026.
- Electric mobility is gaining traction, with 63% of fleets incorporating hybrid or electric vehicles and 38% of non-EV fleets planning to transition.
Challenges remain, particularly around upfront investment costs, cited by 42% of respondents, and difficulties in securing financing and expertise.
Pinergy said it aims to help businesses bridge these gaps through tailored solutions that support monitoring, investment planning and governance.
Business lessons:
- Cost Efficiency Is the Primary Sustainability Driver
Businesses are motivated by financial benefits, not just environmental goals. Position sustainability initiatives as cost-saving strategies to gain buy-in from leadership.
- Measurement Is Critical for Effective Energy Management
“You cannot manage what you do not measure.” Without robust energy monitoring, companies risk inefficiencies and missed savings. Invest in real-time tracking tools.
- Assign Clear Ownership for Sustainability
The absence of a dedicated leader or department creates a vacuum that stalls progress. Establish accountability by appointing a sustainability lead or team.
- Plan for Upfront Investment and Financing
Perceived high costs and difficulty securing capital are major barriers. Businesses should explore green financing options and phased implementation to overcome these hurdles.
- Leverage Emerging Technologies for Competitive Advantage
Solar panels, EV fleets, and renewable energy adoption are no longer optional—they’re becoming mainstream. Early adopters can lock in cost savings and strengthen brand reputation.
Top image: Daire Keating, chief commercial officer, Pinergy
-
Bank of Ireland is welcoming new customers every day – funding investments, working capital and expansions across multiple sectors. To learn more, click here
-
For support in challenging times, click here
-
Listen to the ThinkBusiness Podcast for business insights and inspiration. All episodes are here. You can also listen to the Podcast on:
-
Spotify
-
SoundCloud
-
Apple
