Bill Gates has reignited the climate debate ahead of COP30, urging governments and businesses to “pivot from panic to progress.” His latest comments mark a subtle but significant shift - from a single-minded pursuit of Net Zero at any cost to a broader focus on innovation, infrastructure, and human welfare.
“Although climate change will have serious consequences,” Gates wrote, “it will not lead to humanity’s demise. People will be able to live and thrive in most places on Earth for the foreseeable future.”
Why the narrative is changing
For the past decade, climate policy has focused almost exclusively on reducing emissions. Gates argues that this approach, while vital, risks ignoring the real lever for change - technology adoption and economic scalability. His core message: the world needs affordable, practical clean-tech innovation - not just pledges. AI, advanced grid systems, low-carbon fuels, and modular nuclear power are all part of that equation.
What this means for business energy strategy
Resolve’s market tracking highlights three forces now shaping the energy outlook:
• Rising non-commodity costs - Network charges, standing charges and infrastructure levies (such as TNUoS and the RAB Levy) are now the biggest cost growth areas for UK businesses.
• Technological demand pressure: AI and data-driven industries are driving energy usage and influencing contract availability.
• Policy reframing: Government targets are moving from “how much carbon is cut” to how quickly scalable systems can be built.
The implication is clear: Energy strategy is no longer just a procurement task - it’s a governance issue.
How businesses can respond
· Forward-thinking organisations are already:
Embedding energy within risk management: Integrating supply, regulation, and efficiency under one board-level lens.
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Investing in flexible frameworks: Multi-site contracts, diversified suppliers, and early renewals to lock-in stability.
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Leveraging innovation: Deploying automation, data analytics, and on-site generation , such as solar, to support – not replace – smarter procurement and risk management.
Resolve’s Perspective
At Resolve Energy, our role is to help businesses navigate this shift - bringing insight, clarity and confidence to an increasingly complex landscape.
We combine:
• Market Intelligence: Real-time data and forecasting tools to identify optimal renewal windows.
• Regulatory Expertise: Guidance on upcoming frameworks like MHHS and TNUoS.
• Integrated Resource Management: From energy to waste and water, we help businesses align every utility with cost, compliance, and sustainability goals.
• Clear Net Zero Pathways: Practical, data-led roadmaps for decarbonisation and efficiency, tailored to your sector.
Together, these elements give clients a holistic view of their resource use - not just cheaper contracts, but smarter, more sustainable operations.
The bottom line
The climate conversation is maturing. As Gates reminds us, “The question is not whether we can reach Net Zero, but whether we can get there affordably, equitably, and fast enough.”
For businesses, the same principle applies: the goalposts may move, but the need for clear, intelligent energy management remains constant.
If you're looking to save money on your energy bills then why not get in touch today? The close relationships Resolve Energy has developed with over 24 of the UK’s biggest business energy suppliers allows our energy experts to source the best business energy rates available for your company right when you need them. Request a free quote today and start saving money on your energy.
