The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has submitted its proposals in response to the Government's energy review consultation on future energy policy, whose consultation deadline passed on Friday.

The government launched the consultation in January this year and the review focuses on the range of options for supplying the country with energy over the next 30 years, from wind and wave power to traditional gas and coal.

Rising energy costs can have a negative impact on competitiveness and profitability for small businesses.

John Holbrow, FSB national environment chairman, said: "We call on the government, as it examines ways to create energy for the next 30 years, to remember that this task will be much easier if it provides advice for small firms on how to use energy more efficiently.

"The FSB would support the use of diverse energy sources including renewable energy but would as always urge the government to balance affordability and sustainability. Security of supply should be of paramount importance," he added.

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