SMEs face energy bill ‘cliff-edge’ A poll from the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) shows that almost half of SMEs fear they will be unable to pay their energy bills once the Government’s support package ends next March. The poll shows that 4% believe they will not be able to pay their energy bills at all, while 37% predict they will find it difficult to pay even when they are in receipt of Government support. Shevaun Haviland, director General of the BCC, warned a “cliff-edge” is looming for businesses, and that the Government should consider proposals such as reforming business rates and boosting competition in the business retail market.