Data & Communication Save Fuel Says New AGF Report
23 April 2025 - Press releaseA Greener Future has released a report revealing the current status and future trends in the use of power at festivals
The Low Emission Festivals Report examines current energy management practices at events and identifies opportunities for improvement. The report, which is based on surveys completed by UK festivals, and is supported by Green Britain Foundation, is intended to help event organisers and power professionals to identify current obstacles faced in the transition to green energy at events.
The Low Emission Festivals Report examines current energy management practices at events and identifies opportunities for improvement. The report, which is based on surveys completed by UK festivals, and is supported by Green Britain Foundation, is intended to help event organisers and power professionals to identify current obstacles faced in the transition to green energy at events.
Key takeaways
-Nearly 70% of survey respondents indicated that they are working to reduce energy consumption.
-Festivals are adopting hybrid battery systems, transitioning to grid power and using more energy-efficient equipment like LED lights.
-76% of festivals still use diesel generators.
-High costs and logistical challenges are obstacles to implementing sustainable energy solutions.
-Many festivals engage with power providers too late to optimise their energy consumption.
-Data-driven approaches to optimise and eliminate fuel consumption lead to substantial fuel savings and more efficient energy management.
-Festivals are adopting hybrid battery systems, transitioning to grid power and using more energy-efficient equipment like LED lights.
-76% of festivals still use diesel generators.
-High costs and logistical challenges are obstacles to implementing sustainable energy solutions.
-Many festivals engage with power providers too late to optimise their energy consumption.
-Data-driven approaches to optimise and eliminate fuel consumption lead to substantial fuel savings and more efficient energy management.
The Low Emission Festivals Report is based on two surveys conducted among 26 UK festival organisers from within the AGF, AIF, and LIVE Green festival community, and 9 power contractors, who collectively power many of the UK’s music festivals. The surveyed festivals represent a diverse range of events across England, Scotland, and Wales, from small community gatherings to large-scale events. The study evaluated methods for determining energy needs; equipment and technologies used; communication between organisers and power providers; and energy management approaches and sustainability efforts.
The report includes recommendations for both event organisers and power providers. By strengthening collaboration, adopting data-driven approaches, and sharing risks and responsibilities, the event sector can significantly reduce its reliance on fossil fuels while improving operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This can be further bolstered by government and cross-sector support.
“We’ve known for more than a decade that event power requirements are over specified, (meaning they make inefficient use of generators) and have been aware of the need to use low carbon alternatives, yet despite this, progress has been slow. Faster action is needed to move away from burning fuel to reduce costs and prevent further climate change and air pollution. This report provides insight for organisers and power providers to work collaboratively for these outcomes, in an equitable and sustainable way.” Claire O’Neill (CEO, A Greener Future)
Download the full report and methodology here
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