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Big 6 and Wind Energy Firms Face Further Reputational Risk

New pricing regulation and outcry over wind farm idling dominate energy debate

London, UK. 6th July 2010: Debate on the suitability for wind energy for the UK dominated opinion leader discussion in June according to the latest In Sight Energy & Utilities analysis from Alva, the corporate reputation analysis company. Negative coverage on the National Grid paying wind farm owners for idling their turbines during heavy winds called into question the technology’s suitability to meet the UK’s energy requirements, but there were also positive predictions for the future growth of wind power, resulting in the subject monopolising the energy debate with more than 20% of all issues coverage. Discussions on Belarus switching off the flow of Russian gas to Europe came second, grabbing more than 14% of discussion, while new coalition Government policy and thinking for nuclear power took third place with over 9% of all issues debate.

“Renewable and nuclear energy gained considerable coverage as the new coalition government ruled out government subsidies for the new nuclear build,” explained Alberto Lopez-Valenzuela, CEO of Alva. “Gas supply issues due to disputes between Russia and Belarus had such an impact because they accentuate the UK’s dependence on imported energy supplies and its inherent risk to the country.”

At a domestic level, June also saw further negative coverage on pricing transparency from the big 6, countered by new regulation from Ofgem. Customer statements will now have to show which tariff customers are on, how much energy has been used in the previous 12 months and the estimated cost for the following year. The statements will also show if customers received any discounts, the discounts they could be receiving and if any premiums were paid. EDF and Scottish Power are also facing an Ofgem probe in July for alleged customer overcharging, which will continue to contribute to the negative customer relations coverage surrounding the sector.

“How well and how quickly the energy companies deliver this transparency will have a major impact on their corporate reputation over the coming year,” added Alberto. “For those that get it right there will be a considerable advantage and the opportunity to win many new customers.”

“Looking forward, the UK’s commitment to reduce carbon emissions is likely to come under further scrutiny as the economy picks up and emissions start to rise. This will pose a significant challenge to the Government and renewable energy firms, but also demonstrates a real opportunity for innovation and growth in this sector. This issue could be where reputations are won and lost over coming months.”

Each month, corporate reputation analysis company Alva reports on the emerging and most prominent reputational risk issues in the Energy and Utility industry using information collected from its daily more than media Alva Energy & Utilities In Sight service.

For the latest updates on emerging Energy and Utilities issues follow Alva on Twitter @AlvaUtilities

Source: RealWire on pressbot.org | Date: 2010/07/06 - 0:00 | 281 Hits