We frequently see suppliers hauled over the coals in the media, albeit usually the domestic market. However, what’s causing much consternation is the fact that despite some legislative changes at the smaller end of the SME ‘Micro Business’ market, the business energy market seems in thrall still to the new energy oligopoly. (see www.torse.co.uk/pirates-energy-companies/ ). It shouldn’t be too much of a surprise, an industry with fundamental barriers to entry, big players, weak governance and little legislation has enabled the Energy companies to take a fairly cynical stance towards their markets.

Hey ho, that’s Business. They’re only trying to make money in this tough economic world! What can be done? Businesses small and large are discovering that their energy requirements don’t ‘cut much of a dash’ with many of the suppliers. Procurement has become a minefield, Client Management a flimsy yet impenetrable facade.

Businesses need help and support. Such is the nature of this situation, that, according to the UIA (Utilities Intermediaries Association) suppliers maintain that 60-70% of this market place is using TPIs (Third Party Intermediaries) better known as brokers and consultants. Whilst the core of this sector is made up of sensible, reliable and supportive businesses, others masquerade and don’t deliver the appropriate levels of service.

How can businesses ensure that they are getting properly accredited professional organisations to support them? This is once again where the UIA comes in. The UIA has been working hard over the three years it has been in existence to establish and build credibility in the market for Third Parties, both with Consumers and Suppliers, and has regular interaction with OFGEM and other legislative contacts such as the Department of Business Innovation and Skills (BIS) and the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC).

The Association’s membership now accounts for more than 25,000 Business Energy Contracts and is seeking to grow in these more turbulent times. An important and probably fundamental recent achievement has been that of open recognition in turn from Consumer Focus (with a direct Weblink to the UIA’s Accredited members page).

It should be said Torse has been watching with interest for a couple of years now, albeit looking in rather than participating. Torse has made a commercial decision to sign up for as an Associate Trial member for six months, prior to Full membership. We’re looking forward to rolling our sleeves up and getting involved. This is about ultimately protecting our clients interest and enabling TPIs to continue providing sensible and professional support.

What about you?