This month I suffered the pains of a power outage.

It destroyed the output of the day, with deadlines out the window and productivity under stress.

So I was interested to read the latest FSB survey results relating to the energy market and it made we think about my relationship with these multi-million pound firms.

If I fail to deliver to my clients, they might take it upon themselves to seek compensation. What is the situation then if that is because my utility provider failed? Power is the lifeblood of any Kent business.

One of my FSB colleagues – a hotel chain owner – had only just been in touch talking about the problems his company was having with their energy provider.

Fundamentally, the issue was a lack of communication about a contract ending, meaning an increase of £2,000 on their bills as they were reverted to full charges.

It shows such a lack of care for customers and one wonders what we must say to government to solve this issue. Coupled with this are the complications in switching.

The FSB energy survey is the first study of its kind since the Big Six energy suppliers pledged more support for small business by ending rollover contracts.

We polled 1,400 of our members in an attempt to get a clearer picture of the impact of energy issues on the small business sector.

The survey proved just the point my hotel chain colleague was making – there is a fundamental lack of trust in energy companies from small business customers.

It indicated that small firms “desperately” need the energy providers and the market in general to be fairer and more transparent.

Understanding the offers, the price lists, the options and having a clear comparison between them is a vital requirement for a small business pushing its way out of recession and generating efficiency.

The survey shows 81% of FSB members feel energy suppliers do not care about their needs. Four out of five firms agree that published tariffs would have a positive impact on their business with the main benefit being more competitive pricing and easier switching.

Two thirds of those surveyed feel it is difficult to switch supplier. The biggest problem is unclear notice periods, contract terms and the speed changes could be made.

The FSB presented the findings to the Ofgem consultation last month. It is clear from the national research that there needs to be a great deal of work done on trust and communication between the suppliers and their customers.