Almost a million small businesses on the UK's high streets have turned to a nationwide energy-efficiency scheme to curb rising bills, amid continued volatility in global energy markets.

'Powering the High Street', a partnership between EDF and Enterprise Nation, offers independent retailers and small firms free, practical guidance on cutting energy use, reducing carbon emissions and making better use of their premises.

The programme helps owners track consumption, adopt cost-effective measures and select suitable sustainable energy tariffs, with the aim of keeping operating costs down while bolstering their presence on the high street.

Since launching in May last year, Powering the High Street has become a key resource for businesses seeking to actively manage energy expenses and remain competitive.

According to research from the British Chambers of Commerce, 73% of small businesses report energy costs as their primary concern, with average bills up 424% compared with 2021.

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Claire Nutt, Director of Small Business at EDF UK, said: "While we cannot control international energy prices, we can help small businesses become more energy efficient. Since the initiative began, Powering the High Street has equipped businesses with practical strategies to reduce consumption, optimise costs and build resilience, which is now more important than ever."

By prioritising practical energy management, the initiative also advances wider sustainability goals – increasingly important for independent firms seeking long-term performance and responsible operations.

Aaron Asadi, CEO of Enterprise Nation, said: "The fact that just under one million small businesses across the UK stepped forward to explore sustainable energy solutions as part of this initiative, shows how important effective energy management has become in terms of cost control.

"Many small businesses face the dual challenge of unpredictable wholesale price fluctuations and heightened operational costs as part of the rising 'costs stack.' Our priority is equipping small businesses with the tools and insights needed to thrive despite market uncertainties.

"By partnering with EDF Small Business, we are enabling a more sustainable high street where small firms can continue to innovate and grow without being overwhelmed by rising energy expenses."

Enterprise Nation and EDF say financial resilience and sustainability go hand in hand. They are set to extend support to a broader business base through the launch of the Powering Local Businesses initiative.