Business energy procurement made simpler
Business energy procurement is how a company buys its gas and electricity for the best price and terms. This guide covers how procurement works, the mistakes that cost money, and how OptiFlow Watch keeps your rates honest afterwards.
What business energy procurement really means
Energy procurement is simply the job of buying your business gas and electricity well. It covers timing the market, choosing the right contract length, comparing suppliers and making sure the terms are not stacked against you. Done well it saves real money. Done badly, or not at all, it is one of the biggest quiet overheads a business carries.
The catch is that procurement is a moment in time. You get a good rate, sign, and then stop watching. Prices move, the contract ages and the saving erodes. OptiFlow Watch is the piece that keeps watching after the deal is done.
Getting business energy procurement right
Time the market
Wholesale prices move daily. Signing at the right moment can change your rate for years.
Pick the right term
A longer fix gives certainty, a shorter one gives flexibility. The right choice depends on the market and your plans.
Compare properly
Look past the headline unit rate to the standing charge and the terms, where the real difference often sits.
Avoid deemed rates
Never let a contract lapse into a deemed rate, which is usually the most expensive rate there is.
Read the terms
Auto renewal clauses and notice windows can trap you on a poor rate. Know them before you sign.
Keep watching after
The saving only holds if someone keeps an eye on the rate and the renewal date.
Where OptiFlow Watch fits
Watches after you buy
Procurement gets you a good rate. Watch makes sure it stays a good rate.
Guards the renewal date
Watch warns you well before your contract ends, so you procure again on your terms, not the supplier’s.
Checks the bills
Every bill is checked for errors and overcharges, every month, for 49 pounds a month.
See also business gas prices and try the free business bill overspend checker.
Common questions
What is business energy procurement?
It is the process of buying your business gas and electricity for the best price and terms, from timing the market to choosing the contract and supplier.
Do I need a broker?
A broker can help you procure, but the saving only lasts if someone watches the rate afterwards. OptiFlow Watch does that watching.
When should I procure again?
Before your current contract ends, so you never lapse onto a deemed rate. OptiFlow Watch warns you in good time.
How do I avoid overpaying after procurement?
Monitor your rate and renewal date. OptiFlow Watch does this automatically and flags any overpaying.
How much is OptiFlow Watch?
49 pounds a month to monitor your bills and warn you before you overpay.