Business AI ROI Framework
In development: a modelled framework for estimating AI return on investment for UK organisations. This is not an observed benchmark and no survey or company dataset underlies it.
Proposed scope
We previously described this page as a benchmark of realised returns across UK companies. No such dataset, survey or fieldwork exists, so those figures have been withdrawn. The intended replacement is an openly documented calculation framework that lets an organisation model its own AI costs, energy use and payback from its own inputs, with every assumption stated.
Topics we expect to cover
- Cost components: licences, compute, energy, integration and staff time
- How to measure benefit without overstating it
- A worked, reproducible payback calculation
- Stated assumptions, sensitivities and limitations
Intended audience
- CIOs, CDOs and CTOs at UK firms
- Board directors and audit committees
- Management consultants and advisors
Publisher, corrections and disclaimer
Publisher: AI Energy Intelligence UK
Status: In development. No document is available for download.
Figures described as forecasts, scenarios or estimates are modelled, not measured. Spotted something wrong? Submit a correction.
Frequently asked questions
Was a survey of UK companies carried out?+
No. Earlier wording on this page referred to a sample of UK companies and a median payback period. No underlying dataset exists and those claims have been removed.
What can I use today?+
The Business Guide to AI Energy Costs and the AI electricity cost calculators on this site use transparent, checkable inputs.
Continue exploring business ai research
Business AI·FreeAI Electricity Cost Calculator: UK Business Guide 2026
The hidden electricity cost of AI, explained for UK businesses. A practical, data-driven guide with methodology, worked scenarios, charts and clear recommendations for energy, IT and finance teams.
Read report
Business AI·FreeThe Business Guide to AI Energy Costs 2026
A practical, costed framework for understanding what AI tools really cost to run — built for UK SMEs, IT managers and business owners who need clarity on energy, infrastructure and ROI.
Read report
Business AI·FreeAI & Energy Crisis: UK Power Demand Forecast 2026
A comprehensive analysis of AI-driven electricity demand across the United Kingdom — from current consumption baselines to 2040 growth scenarios, grid constraints and the renewable generation required to power the nation's AI ambitions.
Read report
Business AI·FreeUK Business AI Policy Template & Governance Pack 2026
Practical AI governance, GDPR guidance and editable staff usage policies for UK organisations adopting AI safely.
Read report
Business AI·FreeAI Energy Consumption Index: Q2 2025 Edition
The hidden electricity footprint of leading AI services, benchmarked for UK decision-makers. An independent, evidence-based quarterly index covering ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Copilot and more — with UK demand, grid impact and forecasts to 2035.
Read report
This report is not published yet
We do not sell or send documents that do not exist. Contact us if you would like to be told when this work is published, or explore the research we have already published.