15 Jan 2026
2026 will be a pivotal year for SMEs navigating sustainability and cost-efficiency. The UK energy landscape is shifting fast, shaped by new regulations, technological innovation, and changing customer expectations. For SMEs, these changes bring challenges, but also opportunities to get ahead and grow as a business.
ScottishPower can support Glasgow’s business leaders to navigate the year ahead, with expert guidance, tailored solutions, and 100% renewable electricity for business customers. Here are the five trends that they believe will matter most in 2026.
1. Energy tariffs and supply chain reporting pressures SMEs can’t ignore
While aimed at larger firms, the introduction of the UK Sustainability Reporting Standards* (UK SRS) means that SMEs will increasingly be asked for sustainability data by their bigger customers, banks, and insurers.
This means ‘economically significant’ organisations must disclose their Scope 3 emissions, including those from suppliers. SMEs that can provide credible, consistent data will be seen as lower‑risk partners, unlocking benefits like longer-term contracts and even reduced insurance premiums.
ScottishPower offers business tariffs backed by 100% renewable electricity generated in the UK[1], making it easier to strengthen your sustainability credentials and meet supply chain expectations.
Start preparing now to become the supplier customers choose first.
2. The road to 2030: preparing for the petrol and diesel ban – and what SMEs can do now
The UK Government has confirmed that no new petrol or diesel cars will be sold in the UK after 2030, with all new cars and vans required to be 100% zero‑emission by 2035**. This isn’t just a policy shift - it’s a competitive advantage for early adopters.
For SMEs, transitioning fleets to electric vehicles can cut carbon footprints by up to 30%, reduce running costs, and position a business as a forward‑thinking supplier in a greener supply chain.
ScottishPower offers flexible, future‑proof EV charging solutions, from workplace installations and public EV charge points, to home charger packages for fleet vehicles. The dedicated back‑office system lets businesses manage chargers, set tariffs, and monitor usage in one place, backed by expert installation and support. All designed to make your EV transition seamless.
3. Why heat pumps will matter for SMEs in 2026
The new year will only get cooler before it gets warmer and for SMEs, that means heating efficiency is front of mind. In 2026, the drive towards lower‑emission heating solutions will accelerate, as businesses look to cut costs and meet sustainability targets.
If your business’s current heating system is old or due for repair, now is the perfect time to consider a heat pump. ScottishPower’s heat solutions team can design tailored systems - standalone or integrated - to deliver heating, cooling, and hot water more efficiently. They’ll also manage the whole process from planning to installation, with experienced installers nationwide.^
4. Smart meters: from smart choice to business necessity for cost control and future-proofing your business
Subject to ongoing UK Government consultation, from 20272, proposals could require UK businesses to have (or agree to install) a smart or advanced meter to secure a fixed term energy contract.^^. While details are not fully confirmed, the aim is to increase smart coverage to 88% across non-domestic premises by 2030, delivering up to £194m in savings for smaller businesses.
Installing a smart meter means accurate bills, automatic readings, and near real‑time insights into your energy use, helping spot inefficiencies which could help you cut costs and strengthen sustainability credentials. It’s not just about keeping up with government requirements - it’s smarter business.
ScottishPower offers free installation at a time that suits the business, plus ongoing support if issues arise. Smart meter data feeds directly into the ScottishPower online account or app, putting business owners firmly in control of consumption and spend†.
5. Human connection in a digital age – why expert advice still matters
In 2026, energy management will be more digital than ever before - yet businesses and their customers still value that real connection. Technology is powerful, but trust is human. While AI and automation can help, complex decisions about sustainability, tariffs, or technology are best made with the guidance of a real expert.
ScottishPower business customers have direct access to energy experts who are on hand to tailor green energy solutions to individual business needs.
Speak to our experts today and start shaping your sustainable future: smart.solutions.sales@scottishpower.com
2026 will be a year of change but with the right preparation, SMEs can turn these trends into competitive advantages. Whether it’s meeting new sustainability reporting demands, planning for the EV transition, upgrading heating systems, installing a smart meter, or simply having the right human support, ScottishPower is here to help. Let’s make 2026 the year your business leads the way.
1 Every unit of electricity is matched 100% with renewable energy generated by ScottishPower from our renewable sources in the UK, backed by REGOs as verified by independent auditors and sustainability experts. Fully compliant with GHG Protocol Scope.
2 Policy proposals are subject to consultation and may change before implementation.
Sources
* https://www.gov.uk/guidance/uk-sustainability-reporting-standards
