The government has failed to find solutions to halt soaring energy prices, UK Steel boss Gareth Stace has said.
He was speaking after leaders of energy-intensive industries met with Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng.
"We can't wait until Christmas and beyond. Or even a few weeks. We need action now, it needs to be swift, decisive action," Mr Stace said.
The government said it was exploring ways to manage high energy costs.
Gas prices have risen 250% since January, pushing up costs dramatically.
Mr Stace told the BBC that Mr Kwarteng had listened but had provided "no immediate solutions or guarantees".