What is an energy broker?

An energy broker is a specialist in energy procurement and energy solutions. They work with businesses of all sizes to help them find the best energy deals, negotiate with energy suppliers, and manage their energy usage more efficiently. Essentially, an energy broker helps businesses get the best possible energy pricing and ensures that they are only charged for the energy they use.

For over 20 years we at Energy Solutions have provided substantial gas, electricity, and water savings for commercial clients including SMEs, large enterprises, and national corporations.

Why should property management companies use an energy broker?

Managing tenants’ energy usage is an important part of property management. As a property management company, you have the responsibility to ensure that your tenants are using energy efficiently and that they are not wasting resources, and on the flip side, you want to ensure your tenants are on the right energy deal that will make sense for both them and you.

Here are some of the advantages of working with a broker:

Substantial Energy savings: An energy broker will find the cheapest gas and electricity prices for you, helping you save money on your energy bills. They can also help you identify ways to reduce your energy usage, such as by implementing energy-efficient lighting or HVAC systems.
Contract renewal: Energy contracts typically last between one and three years, and the terms and conditions can be complex. An energy broker can handle the contract renewal process for you, ensuring that you get the best possible deal when it comes time to renew.
Find the best supplier: An energy broker will compare prices from various energy suppliers and help you find the right one for your business. They have in-depth knowledge of the energy industry and can help you navigate the market to find the best supplier for your energy needs.
Optimal energy management strategy: An energy broker can help you develop an energy management strategy that is tailored to your business. They can monitor your energy usage, track your energy bills, and provide you with market intelligence and regulatory updates to ensure that you are always getting the best possible deal.
Handle billing and invoice validation: An energy broker can handle your energy billing and invoice validation, ensuring that you are only charged for the energy you use. This can help you avoid unexpected charges and errors on your energy bills.
Switching suppliers: If you are not happy with your current supplier, an energy broker can help you switch to a new one. They can handle the entire process for you, from finding a new supplier to negotiating the terms of the contract.

How does working with an energy broker work?

Working with an energy broker is easy. Here’s what you can expect:

Consultancy: The energy broker will meet with you to understand your energy needs and requirements. They will ask you about your current energy usage, your business’s size and location, and your energy goals.
Finding the best deal: The energy broker will then use their expertise to find the best deal for your business. They will compare prices from various energy suppliers and negotiate with them to get the best pricing and contract terms.
Ongoing monitoring: Once you have signed an energy contract, the energy broker will monitor your energy usage and bills to ensure that everything is running smoothly. They will also provide you with in-depth knowledge and advice on energy efficiency and management.
Renewal reminders: When your energy contract is up for renewal, the energy broker will remind you and help you find the best possible deal for your business.
In-house expertise: If you hire an energy broker, you won’t need to hire an in-house energy expert. The broker will handle everything for you, from finding the cheapest prices to handling billing and invoice validation.

How much energy can property management companies expect to use?

The amount of energy that property management companies can expect to use in the UK will depend on a variety of factors, such as the type of properties they manage, the size of the properties, the level of energy efficiency of the properties, and the behavior of the tenants or occupants of the properties.

In general, property management companies can expect to use energy for various purposes, such as lighting, heating, cooling, ventilation, and appliances. The amount of energy used for each of these purposes will depend on factors such as the climate, the efficiency of the building envelope, the age and efficiency of the HVAC systems, and the energy consumption patterns of the tenants or occupants.

According to the UK Government’s Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), the average annual electricity consumption for non-domestic properties in the UK is around 20,000 kWh per year, while the average annual gas consumption is around 45,000 kWh per year. However, the actual energy usage of a property will depend on its specific characteristics and usage patterns.

To calculate your electricity usage, visit here.

To calculate your gas usage, visit here.

How can property management companies reduce their energy bill?

Submetering: Submetering installation has advantages for both owners and renters. This not only enables renters to obtain their energy usage information, but it can also improve sustainability. Enhancing your environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance will increase the likelihood that customers and investors who care about the environment will hire your company.

Upgrade HVAC systems: Replacing older HVAC systems with more energy-efficient models can significantly reduce energy consumption.

Implement water-saving measures: Installing low-flow showerheads, toilets, and faucets can reduce water usage and lower utility bills.