What Are Commercial Energy Brokers?
Commercial energy brokers are independent experts who help Australian businesses navigate the complex energy market. They act as intermediaries between your business and energy retailers, securing the best possible electricity and gas contracts, negotiating terms, and providing ongoing support to optimise your energy costs and efficiency.
Why Use a Commercial Energy Broker?
- Market Expertise: Brokers have deep knowledge of the Australian energy market, including regulatory changes, tariff structures, and retailer offerings.
- Time Savings: They handle the research, tendering, and negotiation, saving your business valuable time.
- Cost Savings: By comparing offers from multiple retailers and leveraging their negotiating power, brokers can secure lower rates and better contract terms.
- Ongoing Support: Services often include bill validation, network tariff analysis, and energy efficiency recommendations.
How the Commercial Energy Procurement Process Works
- Consultation: Your business shares its energy needs and priorities with the broker.
- Market Analysis & Tendering: The broker analyses your usage and goes to market, tendering for competitive rates from a panel of leading retailers.
- Negotiation: Using established relationships, the broker negotiates favourable contract terms.
- Presentation & Switching: The broker presents the best-fit solutions. Once approved, they manage the paperwork and switching process.
- Ongoing Support: Includes bill validation, network tariff reviews, and energy efficiency advice.
Zembl’s Approach to Commercial Energy Brokering
Zembl offers a comprehensive service for commercial and industrial (C&I) businesses:- Energy Procurement: Obligation-free tenders to secure competitive rates from a trusted panel of Australian retailers.- Energy Intelligence: AI-powered analytics to monitor usage, identify savings, and recommend efficiency upgrades.- Efficiency Services: Access to solar, batteries, LED lighting, power factor correction, and energy audits through trusted partners.- Contract Management: Proactive renewal service to avoid rolling onto higher default rates.- Sustainability Support: Guidance on integrating renewables and meeting ESG goals.
Who Qualifies for Commercial Energy Brokering?
- Businesses using over 100,000 kWh/year (160,000 kWh in SA) or spending more than $2,500/month on energy.
- C&I customers can access the wholesale market and forward purchase electricity.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not comparing multiple offers or understanding contract terms.
- Overlooking hidden fees or network charges.
- Failing to review contracts before expiry, risking default rates.
- Ignoring energy efficiency opportunities.
Australian Market Context & Regulations
- National Customer Code: Zembl is a signatory, ensuring ethical and transparent service.
- State Variations: Eligibility thresholds and retailer options vary by state.
- Government Incentives: While there are no direct procurement incentives, efficiency upgrades (solar, LED, etc.) may be eligible for rebates or grants.
Internal Links
- Commercial Energy Solutions
- Commercial Energy Procurement
- High-Energy User Solutions
- Energy Efficiency Services
- Expiring Commercial Energy Contracts
Why Choose Zembl?
- 15+ years’ experience and 30,000+ customers
- 97% positive feedback and 4.7/5-star rating
- Local experts with strong retailer relationships
- Ongoing support beyond procurement
FAQs
How do I know if I qualify as a commercial energy customer?If your business uses over 100,000 kWh/year (160,000 kWh in SA) or spends more than $2,500/month, you likely qualify. Check your bill or contact Zembl for a free assessment.
How often should I review my contract?Start reviewing within 12 months of expiry to secure the best rates and avoid default pricing.
Can brokers help with sustainability?Yes, brokers like Zembl can connect you with solar, batteries, and other efficiency solutions, and advise on government incentives.
What’s the risk of not renewing my contract?You may be rolled onto higher default rates, which can be double your previous rates.
How long does the process take?Zembl can typically secure new offers within 4 business days once all details are provided.
Get Started
Contact Zembl’s commercial energy experts for an obligation-free energy tender and see how much your business could save.