The government has been accused of not doing enough to help UK firms improve their energy efficiency, a report has revealed.

The report, released by the Trade Unions Congress (TUC) said the failures are saddling UK businesses with higher-than-necessary energy bills, costing companies millions of pounds a year.

The report details five areas where the government must improve policy, including; regulation, tax incentives, access to finance, information gathering and dissemination, and 'greening the workplace' – with staff, unions and management working together.

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TUC General Secretary Frances O'Grady said: "Clamping-down on the Great British energy waste is a win-win for businesses, the government and the environment. Even small businesses can save far more from energy efficiency measures than switching suppliers.

"Better energy regulations backed by access to finance, a one-stop shop for energy advice, and encouraging green workplaces would all help tackle this pointless and expensive frittering away of energy."

(CD/JP)