A majority of small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) want their energy supplier to be committed to renewable energy.

That’s according to a new report by Haven Power which found 72% of 100 businesses surveyed would like to see that happen.

The offer of renewable electricity is one of the main reasons for businesses to switch energy suppliers.

More than one in five – 22% – said they would stay late at work to switch suppliers if they could purchase a completely clean energy product.

Furthermore, more than a quarter – 26% – said support in being more energy efficient is something they look for in an energy supplier. However, only 11% of them would rate their current supplier as excellent when it comes to green energy.

The survey also found only 23% of businesses believe they are receiving a great deal from their energy supplier but although they can shop around for better deals, only a few switch to a new supplier.

Businesses argue switching is difficult as 21% of them started the process but didn’t end up with a new supplier.

Jonathan Kini, Chief Executive of Haven Power said: “That so many SMEs are dissatisfied with their existing energy supplier is perhaps unsurprising but the sheer scale of the discontent revealed in this report remains shocking. SMEs want more from their supplier and a commitment to renewable energy is one of the demands they are pushing for.

“This suggests there is some fundamental change happening and we in the energy sector need to respond to it by not only helping SMEs reduce their energy usage but also being able to supply 100% renewable energy.”