Leading with purpose: E.ON and The Purpose Coalition’s role in shaping a fairer, greener UK

As I reflect on the first 100 days of the new government and await the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement, the need for a joint, inclusive effort to tackle barriers to opportunity across the UK is clearer than ever. Last year, we launched our Breaking Down Barriers Commission, chaired by Nick Forbes CBE, former leader of Newcastle City Council.

The Breaking Down Barriers Commission is a key initiative under The Purpose Coalition, focused on addressing and eliminating the obstacles that prevent individuals from achieving social mobility and equal opportunities. Bringing together leaders from business, education, and government, the Commission explored practical solutions to dismantle these systemic barriers. Our core aims are to influence policies and practices that foster a more inclusive and equitable society, sharing insights, best practices, and collaboration that provides tangible impact.

The government’s recent establishment of the Office for Equality and Opportunity to "break down barriers to opportunity" signals a welcome commitment to levelling the playing field for all. However, the true potential of this office lies in its collaboration with businesses, employers, local authorities, and communities, the entities that drive real change on the ground.

At the Purpose Coalition, our members have been leading the way in breaking down these barriers, with E.ON being a prime example of an organisation truly ahead of the curve.

The recent launch of E.ON’s Breaking Down Barriers Impact Report at a reception in the House of Commons attended by more than 40 cross-party MPs laid out a clear blueprint for change. E.ON has demonstrated its commitment to social impact and sustainability through the lens of People, Power, and Purpose. In today’s rapidly evolving energy landscape, E.ON understands that breaking down barriers requires a holistic approach, one that encompasses customers, colleagues, and the communities it serves.

Through working in partnership, E.ON continues to lead on both energy security and the transition to net zero. The E.ON Next Leaders Event which Callum Crozier and Danny Davis in our team supported, highlighted this forward-thinking approach, nurturing a new generation of leaders primed to take on future challenge.

At the Labour Party Conference in September, we hosted the E.ON Warmer Homes Reception alongside Bill Esterson MP, an event that reinforced the role businesses play in addressing the energy needs of the most vulnerable while advancing the net-zero agenda. As Chair of the Energy Security and Net-Zero Select Committee, Bill Esterson MP plays a pivotal role in overseeing the UK's progress towards net-zero. His engagement with E.ON is crucial, allowing the company to share its expertise directly with policymakers, contributing valuable insights and shaping policies to guide the nation's energy transition. This collaboration ensures that practical, on-the-ground solutions from leaders like E.ON are integrated into the UK's journey to net-zero, balancing sustainability with energy security.

This type of proactive, on-the-ground work is what will truly break down barriers to opportunity, not just top-down policy from Westminster. The new Invest 2035 strategy, which focuses on creating a pro-business environment, is a significant step forward. However, Purpose Coalition members like E.ON are already shaping the future by implementing practical solutions that meet both business goals and societal needs.

E.ON’s partnership with Coventry City Council through their Strategic Energy Partnership offers a pioneering example of this exact approach. By focusing on green skills, innovation, and community benefit, E.ON is tackling climate change while simultaneously improving social mobility. This partnership, and others like it, shows that businesses have a critical role in creating sustainable communities that can thrive.

While the government’s recent initiatives, including the creation of the Office for Equality and Opportunity, are promising, their success depends on learning from and working with businesses that are already ahead of the curve.

Breaking down barriers to opportunity requires everyone to play their part. From Westminster policymakers to businesses like E.ON, we must all work together. The Purpose Coalition is proud to partner with forward-thinking organisations that are delivering change, not just promises. Together, by putting purpose at the heart of business, we’re building a more inclusive and prosperous future for all, regardless of background or postcode.

It’s vital that every individual within E.ON considers how their role generates impact not just for the company, but for society. By feeding into our collective, purpose-led approach, each of us plays a part in building a more inclusive, sustainable future.