Is your energy broker really on your side?

Energy: Indigo Swan

Recently, we spoke with a Norfolk-based company who, like many others, thought they were getting a great deal. A ‘low price’ day-rate of 31.45p/kWh on a four-year Blend and Extend contract sounded promising to them. But when we dug a little deeper, the story took a familiar and frustrating turn.

The broker, based in the Northeast, hadn’t disclosed their commission. No paperwork showed the uplift, there was no breakdown of costs and no additional services were being provided. No invoice validation. No query management. No support to reduce energy consumption. Just one supplier, one contract length and likely a 3-5p/kWh uplift tucked away in the shadows.

This isn’t just a Norfolk issue, but we’re seeing a worrying trend of local businesses being targeted. The supplier involved is also offering little more than lip service to sustainability, despite the business needing a genuinely green contract to meet stakeholder expectations.

The result? A long-term commitment with limited options to exit and thousands of pounds in hidden commission. It’s a costly mistake that will echo through their bottom line until the end of the decade.

So, how can you protect your business from falling into the same trap?

Our five top tips

1. Seek transparency and integrity. If your broker isn’t upfront about their commission, ask why. A good energy consultant will always disclose costs and explain how they’re being paid. If they’re vague or evasive, it’s time to walk away.
2. Look for proven expertise and awards. Choose partners who’ve earned recognition for their work. Awards and certifications aren’t just shiny badges, they’re signs of trust, credibility and a commitment to doing things properly.
3. Demand partnership, not just service. Energy procurement shouldn’t be a one-and-done transaction. Look for consultants who act as an extension of your team, offering tailored advice, ongoing support and a genuine interest in your success.
4. Verify cost savings and results. Ask for case studies, testimonials and real-world examples of savings delivered. If a broker can’t show you how they’ve helped others, how can you be sure they’ll help you? Also, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Some brokers strip out key costs like CCL or taxes to make deals look cheaper.
5. Ensure communication and insight. The energy market moves fast. Your broker should keep you informed with regular updates and market insights, and help with budgeting and forecasting. Silence isn’t golden, it’s expensive.

At Indigo Swan, we’re proud to be different. We believe in clarity, honesty and building long-term relationships based on trust. Norfolk businesses deserve better than hidden fees and half-hearted service. If you’re unsure about your current energy contract or want to explore more sustainable options, we’re here to help.

Let’s make energy procurement smarter, fairer and more transparent – for everyone.