The ECA was founded to do one simple but vital thing: give reputable brokers a fair voice.

In just a few short years, we’ve grown from a small group of committed consultants into a recognised trade body that regulators, suppliers, and policymakers now take seriously.

We’ve challenged misrepresentation in the media.

We’ve contributed to regulatory consultations.

We’ve pushed suppliers on fairer treatment and transparency.

And most importantly, we’ve created a space where brokers can come together to raise standards and support one another.

As we look ahead, the opportunities and challenges facing our sector are clear.

Here’s what we’ve been doing, what’s changing in the market, and how you can get involved.

Following the passing of our Chair and co-founder, Chris Shaw, the Executive Committee has confirmed the next steps to ensure stability and progress.

• Interim Chair: John Haw (Fidelity Energy) has stepped into the role to provide continuity.

• New positions: We are finalising appointments for a Vice Chair and two additional Executive roles, widening the expertise and perspective at the table.

Chris believed passionately in building a credible, member-driven association. We remain committed to carrying that work forward.

Membership is rising, and with it, our ability to advocate on behalf of the broker community.

More voices mean more weight in the conversations that matter. From Ofgem consultations to supplier negotiations.

We’re also exploring new partnerships that will create tangible benefits for members, whether that’s access to better data, collective purchasing opportunities, or stronger recognition in the market.

One of the strongest messages from members has been the need for quick, practical channels to share information. In response, we’re launching a members-only WhatsApp group.

It will be a space for spontaneous discussion, quick questions, and sharing best practice.

Alongside this, we’ll be rolling out a survey to capture what matters most for 2026/27 — the events you want, the topics you need covered, and the support that would make the biggest difference.

Energy regulation and non-commodity costs don’t always make headlines, but they have a direct impact on brokers and their clients.

Here are the key changes ahead:

From now until mid-2027, electricity billing will shift to 30-minute intervals, replacing estimates.

This means:

• More accurate bills for clients.

• Data-led insights to help clients identify peak usage and manage demand.

• Opportunities for smarter tariffs, particularly where storage or EV fleets are in play.

Ofgem expects long-term consumer benefits of £1.6–£4.5 billion. For brokers, the ability to interpret and act on half-hourly data will be a differentiator.

Introduced in April 2025, this levy redistributes costs:

• Non-EII businesses will see a small additional charge (c. £0.90–£1.50 per MWh).

• EII businesses can apply for certification, unlocking up to 60% discounts on network charges like DUoS, TNUoS, and BSUoS.

For brokers, understanding whether clients qualify, and helping them through certification, could deliver significant savings.

A new charge to finance nuclear projects like Sizewell C under the Regulated Asset Base (RAB) model.

Currently modest (around 0.35–0.45p per kWh depending on season), it is another line item for businesses to absorb.

For most clients, the impact will be small in isolation, but as non-commodity costs stack up, brokers will play a critical role in helping clients understand where their money is going.

TNUoS charges cover the cost of maintaining and upgrading the national grid. From April 2026, these will rise sharply.

• Already visible in higher standing charges on some new contracts.

• Uncertainty remains on whether suppliers will apply increases to existing fixed deals.

• The ECA is pressing suppliers for clarity to protect members’ clients.

For brokers, this is about staying ahead of the conversation, ensuring clients understand why standing charges are rising and pushing back on any unfair practices.

As the ECA grows, so too does the responsibility of our Executive Team.

These are the people who help shape priorities, represent members in key discussions, and ensure we deliver real value back to the sector.

We are now inviting nominations for new Executive Team members.

• Eligibility: only members of the ECA can nominate or stand.

• Commitment: around 5–10 hours per month, plus 1–2 in-person events such as the AGM.

• Impact: directly influencing the direction of the association and, by extension, the broker community.

If you’d like to nominate, join the ECA today and be part of shaping the industry’s future.

In the coming months, we will:

• Close nominations and confirm new Executive appointments.

• Launch the WhatsApp group for more spontaneous member conversations.

• Deliver practical guides on MHHS, levies, and pricing to support brokers with client conversations.

• Host quarterly webinars and forums to keep members connected and informed.

We’ll also keep sharing members’ news from new clients and partnerships to award wins, to showcase the professionalism and impact of reputable brokers.

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

Or fill out this form to receive our information pack

If you have any questions, please reach out to Joe Wilson at joe.wilson@energyconsultantsassociation.co.uk or call 07875343161.

If today’s agenda speaks to the challenges you face, or the kind of support you want more of, we’d love to welcome you as a member.

Let’s build the future of this sector together.