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Energy prices continue to surge across the U.S. in 2025. Yet, sustainability remains a key priority for American consumers. Despite financial pressures, people are showing unwavering support for eco-friendly choices.
At the Centre for Sustainability and Excellence (CSE), we have seen this commitment firsthand. For over 20 years, we have helped U.S. companies turn sustainability into a competitive advantage.
Energy Costs Rise, but So Does Green Commitment
The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that electricity prices for residential users now average 15.6 cents per kilowatt-hour—a sharp increase since 2023 (EIA, 2025). Meanwhile, the Department of Energy’s job cuts in May 2025 raise concerns about delays in renewable energy efforts (The Guardian, 2025).
Nevertheless, consumers remain focused on sustainability. According to the 2025 PwC Consumer Insights Pulse, 72% of Americans prefer sustainable brands, while 65% are willing to pay more for them (PwC, 2025).
At CSE, we see this trend in our U.S. projects. Sustainability has evolved from a buzzword to a business imperative.
CSE’s Perspective: How Businesses Can Respond
Based on our extensive experience, businesses should take immediate steps to align with these shifting consumer expectations.
First, energy efficiency must become a priority. Companies that invest in microgrids, renewable energy, and smart technologies not only cut costs but also gain consumer trust.
Second, businesses must improve ESG reporting and transparency. Adopting frameworks such as GRI, SASB, and TCFD ensures credible and comparable sustainability disclosures.
Third, companies should closely monitor state-level policies. States like California, New York, and Massachusetts are advancing strict sustainability mandates, even when federal policy lags (NCSL, 2024).
Finally, embedding sustainability across the entire supply chain is no longer optional. Consumers increasingly expect products to reflect ethical and sustainable sourcing from start to finish.
Future Trends: What to Expect in the U.S. Market
Looking ahead, CSE identifies several key trends that will shape the sustainability landscape:
- Decentralized Energy Solutions: Community solar projects, energy storage, and localized grids will grow rapidly. This helps consumers and businesses mitigate rising energy costs.
- Data-Driven Accountability: Brands must back their sustainability claims with verifiable ESG data and third-party assessments.
- Sustainability and Profitability Converge: Sustainable business models are already delivering stronger returns. For example, Morningstar notes that ESG-focused funds continue to outperform traditional portfolios (Morningstar, 2025).
Companies that act on these trends will gain a competitive edge. Those that hesitate risk falling behind.
About CSE
The Centre for Sustainability and Excellence (CSE) is a global leader in sustainability training and ESG consulting. With over 20 years of expertise, we have trained more than 8,000 professionals and supported Fortune 500 companies, governments, and institutions worldwide.
Our Certified Sustainability Practitioner Program, Advanced Edition 2025, offers U.S. professionals the tools to:
- Master ESG standards like GRI, SASB, TCFD, and ESRS
- Calculate carbon footprints and manage Scope 3 emissions
- Improve ESG ratings and strategy
- Navigate U.S. and global sustainability regulations
If your organization is ready to meet consumer expectations and manage energy-related risks, CSE can help.
👉 Explore the upcoming U.S. Certified Sustainability Practitioner Program.
