Behind Closed Doors with Ofgem
Earlier this month, representatives from the Energy Consultants Association (ECA) met with Ofgem to raise a series of concerns shared by our members.
The meeting focused on four key themes:
- Fraud prevention
- Data access
- The value of voluntary industry codes of conduct
- Recent changes to the Change of Tenancy (COT) process
As a not-for-profit trade body representing energy brokers across the UK, our goal in meetings like this is simple.
We bring forward what’s really happening on the ground.
We advocate for fairer, more transparent conditions. And we work to ensure that the voices of reputable, client-focused brokers are heard at the highest level.
Fraud Prevention: Progress, But Still Work to Do
Fraud remains a persistent and damaging issue in the energy sector.
We updated Ofgem on our joint efforts with Energy Live News (ELN), including a forthcoming roundtable on 30th June, which Ofgem have confirmed they will attend.
We welcomed Ofgem’s ongoing interest in fraud reduction.
We believe this is not just a regulatory priority, but a reputational one.
If businesses can’t trust the broker model, the entire non-domestic market suffers.
Voluntary Codes of Practice: Time to Add Real Value
We discussed the future of industry regulation.
Ofgem confirmed that formal regulation is likely to arrive via government legislation, but this could take two to three years.
In the meantime, they are exploring ways to provide customers with clearer guidance on how to identify a good broker.
We encouraged them to include voluntary Code of Practice (COP) membership as a quality marker. Many brokers already commit to these standards — not for competitive advantage, but because it is the right thing to do.
That effort deserves recognition.
We also highlighted a common challenge:
Voluntary codes currently carry little commercial benefit.
They can slow down sales, add admin costs, and, in some cases, put ethical brokers at a disadvantage.
We suggested that suppliers and RECCo explore mechanisms to reward brokers who commit to best practice.
That could include faster quote turnaround, enhanced support, or modest commercial uplifts for accredited partners.
Data Access: High Costs, Uneven Playing Fields
We raised the cost of data access as a growing barrier for consultants.
Using real examples from our members, we outlined the fees currently charged by data providers such as ElectraLink.
Ofgem expressed surprise at the scale of these costs and the way they often favour high-volume users. For independent brokers, especially those supporting SMEs, these barriers can undermine their ability to serve clients competitively.
We urged Ofgem to examine whether the current model is fit for purpose and whether alternative structures could support more equitable access.
COT Reform: Member Experience Will Be Key
Finally, we discussed Ofgem’s recent updates to the Change of Tenancy (COT) process.
Ofgem had hoped that reforms would lead to improved speed and clarity, but our members report little meaningful change so far.
We’ve committed to gathering structured feedback on this from across our membership and will report back with evidence-led recommendations.
Why This Matters To Our Members
These are not fringe issues.
Fraud, data access, and the structure of broker incentives affect how the non-domestic market operates — and whether it works in the best interests of customers.
The ECA exists to ensure that brokers who act with professionalism, transparency, and customer care are supported and heard.
Without that voice, policy decisions risk being made in a vacuum.
We will continue working constructively with Ofgem and other stakeholders to build a fairer, more trusted broker market. If you’re a supplier, policymaker, or consultant who wants to be part of that conversation, we invite you to engage with us.
The Time Is Now – Join The ECA
Brokers who are part of the ECA are already leading the way in professional standards.
✔ Access to expert-led training and guidance on regulatory changes
✔ Support with compliance, ADR, and complaints handling solutions
✔ A collective voice to represent brokers’ interests with Ofgem and policymakers
✔ Networking opportunities and industry recognition
If you would like to become a member today and share in tomorrow’s success, please contact enquiries@energyconsultantsassociation.co.uk with the following information:
• Membership tier relevant to your business turnover
• Business address
• Main contact details
• Monthly/Annual payment
Following your email, you will receive your invoice, welcome pack, and digital assets/membership badges, along with instructions on how to join our member portal.
If you have any questions, please reach out to Joe Wilson at joe.wilson@energyconsultantsassociation.co.uk or call 07875343161.
If you’re not yet a member, now is the time to take action and future-proof your business.
Join the ECA today and ensure your business is positioned for success in the new energy landscape.
