OCTOPUS Energy has denied it was anti-union after GMB demanded Britain’s largest energy firm welcome workers’ efforts to organise.

The union is planning to submit a voluntary recognition proposal at the company known for its investments in renewable energy.

Disputes between the energy company and workers follow criticism from climate groups, which have voiced their disagreement to GMB’s opposition to the government rollout of heat pumps and its support of North Sea oil projects.

Octopus claimed there was neither a need nor demand from staff for union recognition, denying claims that it opposed organised labour, adding that staff could decide if they want to push for union recognition.

A spokesperson said it was “an outstanding employer” and “consistently named one of the UK’s best places to work and every employee is a shareholder.”

But GMB regional energy officer Tony Tanushi said management has shown “no appetite” for unionisation and that he would consider arbitration if the voluntary recognition failed.

“Their staff want to unionise, they see that their competitors provide a genuine platform for their employees to provide feedback and they want the same opportunity,” he said.

“Many companies provide a share scheme for their employees and this doesn’t translate to having a genuine voice on terms and conditions that would be achieved through a formal recognition and bargaining rights.”

Octopus hit back at GMB’s “opposition to heat pumps and EVs” claiming it would mean “turning our backs on the very industries that will create the next generation of skilled jobs and directly jeopardises thousands of jobs across our business.”

Greenpeace UK head of climate Mel Evans said unions and workers are needed “to power this transition,” adding: “We simply can’t do it without them.”