Should You Use An Energy Broker?

Should you use an energy consultant?

More and more businesses are waking up to the fact that potential savings lie within their utilities portfolios. In a changing and competitive market, the value in using an energy consultant is a topic debated amongst business owners. From big corporates to SMEs, all businesses stand to benefit from partnering with the right energy consultant.

So, should you use an energy consultant for your business energy procurement and management?

Here are our top five reasons to consider working with an energy consultant:

1. If you don’t have enough time to understand the market and negotiate the deal.

Particularly in the case of SMEs, many business owners simply do not have the time or available resources to develop a real understanding of the markets and apply that knowledge to get the best deals. Even if you are willing to dedicate the time to thorough research and discussions with suppliers, it will indirectly affect operations as this time is often better spent attending to your core business.

There are over 50 energy suppliers in the UK, so finding the best possible deal yourself would mean contacting as many suppliers as possible, then comparing quotes. Adding to the complexity, different suppliers present their quotes differently, so it’s not always an ‘apples with apples’ comparison. An expert energy consultant has special comparison tools that enable them to procure multiple quotes and make accurate comparisons within minutes.

2. If you want to capitalise on experience and expertise.

Consultants have the industry knowledge and experience to review and advise throughout the procurement process, unravelling the complexity around timing, tariffs, and – importantly – long-term strategy. In addition, opt for an energy consultant with long-standing supplier relationships as this will further assist in negotiating the best deals on your behalf.

When you use the services of a business energy consultant, there’s no need to go through all the administration required to switch suppliers and set up a new energy contract. You’ll benefit from having one point of contact for all your energy needs and you’ll be able to go straight to your account manager rather than deal with suppliers directly.

3. If you want to make the most of competitiveness and impartiality for procurement.

When suppliers compete for your business, this has a telling effect on price. By working with the right consultant, you will make the most of their good supplier relationships; harness the bargaining power of competitiveness; and receive independent, impartial recommendations and advice to make the best decision.

Simply put, you won’t find a better deal on your own.

4. If you want the value of energy management beyond procurement.

Securing the best utilities contracts is the first step. The consultant’s relationship should extend beyond this and provide even further savings over time through holistic services, infrastructure, and technology – driving optimal efficiency and stepping in to assist your business as it expands and changes.

Your energy consultant can advise you on net zero implementations, energy efficiency measures, legal requirements, special rates and rebates – anything you need to know about your energy management and portfolio.

5. If you want one partner for a host of services.

It is important to work with an energy consultant who takes the time to understand your business. Once this relationship has been established, your consultant can become a partner for a range of business services for additional savings in water, waste, telecoms, business finance, and facilities maintenance. This streamlines your business services portfolio, giving you one point of contact and only one invoice for a host of business essential services. It also gives you more opportunities to save in other areas of your business.

When considering whether or not you should use an energy consultant, bear in mind that unlocking the savings in your utilities portfolios can be tricky and time-consuming if you go at it alone.

Contact Smarter Business to take control of your costs and strategise for long-term savings. 

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