What the evidence means
The ONS Business Insights and Conditions Survey allowed businesses to report multiple carbon-reduction actions. Percentages therefore do not sum to 100%.
Multiple responses were permitted in the BICS question.
G&G verified business evidence
UK businesses switching to LED bulbs
In late December 2024, 34% of UK businesses reported switching to LED bulbs as an action to reduce carbon emissions.
34
percent
Original source
Office for National Statistics
Business insights and impact on the UK economy: 9 January 2025
The action breakdown reports 34% of businesses had switched to LED bulbs.
View original evidence
Office for National Statistics. Business insights and impact on the UK economy: 9 January 2025. 9th of January, 2025. https://www.ons.gov.uk/businessindustryandtrade/business/businessservices/bulletins/businessinsightsandimpactontheukeconomy/9january2025
Why this matters to UK SMEs
Switching to efficient lighting is a visible and often accessible carbon-reduction measure for SMEs. The adoption rate provides context, but the business case depends on existing lighting, operating hours, installation costs and the quality required for the workplace.
Key breakdowns
In late December 2024, 34% of businesses reported switching to LED bulbs to reduce emissions, making it the most commonly reported action. Adjusting heating and cooling systems was reported by 24% and installing a smart meter by 15%. Overall, 51% had taken at least one carbon-reduction action.
How to interpret this evidence
Businesses could report multiple actions, so percentages overlap. Reporting a switch does not reveal how much lighting was replaced, when it occurred or the resulting energy and emissions savings.
Limitations
BICS is voluntary, excludes some industries and reports official statistics in development. Actions were self-reported in a late-December snapshot. The measure does not assess product lifetime, embodied impact, lighting quality, cost, payback or independently verified emissions reductions.
Practical considerations
G&G perspective: survey existing fittings and operating hours, prioritise frequently used areas and compare whole-life cost, light quality and maintenance. Record baseline electricity use where material and verify savings after installation rather than treating the purchase itself as the outcome.