The Purpose Coalition and E.ON unveil blueprint to break down barriers and drive social impact and sustainable growth

A blueprint for sector-specific businesses on their potential to deliver much wider social change was unveiled recently in Parliament at an event hosted by The Lord McNicol of West Kilbride, attended by a number of cross-party MPs with leading energy and sustainable solutions company E.ON and the Purpose Coalition. 

The Purpose Coalition and E.ON Social Impact Report, ‘People, Power and Purpose’, showcases E.ON, E.ON Next and npower Business Solutions’ current initiatives and achievements on social impact and sets the stage for an ambitious and equitable future, delivered in partnership with its colleagues, communities, businesses and policy makers.

E.ON, which employs almost 9,700 plays a pivotal role in Britain's energy landscape, serving 5.6 million customers and spearheading initiatives to decarbonise and transition towards a new, more sustainable energy world. It is in the vanguard of leading the global shift towards new technology by working with domestic customers to be more sustainable at home, with companies to help reduce their carbon footprint and across communities to build smart and sustainable cities.

As a business, E.ON is committed to fostering a positive social impact through a wide-ranging and innovative agenda, guided by the key themes of social value and sustainable development. The report assesses its current activities against a framework of 15 core barriers to opportunity that exist in the UK, particularly highlighting its successful work on education and career development; good heath and wellbeing; community development and  sustainability; leadership on the energy transition through innovation; and prioritisation of diversity and inclusion.

Its efforts are underpinned by several strategic partnerships across public and private sector, including Coventry City Council in a 15-year collaboration to create a more self-sufficient and sustainable city – a UK first.

Critically, the report also looks to the future and identifies areas where E.ON can continue its work and make an even greater impact through:

• Exploring the creation of a new platform to digitise and democratise volunteering and fundraising;
• Deepening upstream partnerships with healthcare organisations; 
• Increasing personalised customer support;   
• Incorporating social mobility into wider diversity approaches; 
• Forging an inclusive and skilled talent pipeline.

Chair of the Purpose Coalition and former Education Secretary, Rt Hon Justine Greening, said:  “This report shines a spotlight on what it means to be a truly purpose-led business. It demonstrates how E.ON is shaping the future of energy across Britain, with a clear commitment to help individuals and businesses achieve net zero in a transition towards a cleaner, greener, smarter energy system that is fair for everyone.

“But it also recognises that, as a business, it can make a significant impact beyond providing energy. The proof of that contribution can be seen in this report, with fantastic examples of how it is effectively breaking down barriers for its customers, its colleagues and the communities it serves.”

Chris Norbury, Chief Executive Officer of E.ON UK, said: “I am immensely proud to present our People, Power and Purpose report, which underscores our commitment to making sure our actions and the energy transition are a force for good that benefits everyone in society. At E.ON, we believe our role extends far beyond providing energy, it is about empowering individuals inside and outside our organisation, uplifting communities, and helping the country to grow and prosper.“

Nick Forbes CBE, Chair of the Breaking Down Barriers Commission, part of the wider Purpose Coalition, added:  “E.ON UK's dedication to social impact serves as an exemplary model for how businesses can go beyond their traditional roles to address critical social issues. The People, Power and Purpose report is a powerful testament to what can be achieved when a company commits to breaking down barriers and fostering inclusion and opportunity.

“E.ON's strategic vision not only supports the energy transition but also drives meaningful change across communities, creating a ripple effect of positive impact that I believe will inspire others in the industry."