Funded by the DfE, Climate Ambassadors match volunteer climate experts with education settings.
Part of Let’s Go Zero, Climate Action Advisors are independent experts who offer free support for schools, colleges, and nurseries across England.
About
Review your current energy supply arrangements to understand what your setting is buying, how contracts are structured, and whether they provide good value while supporting your sustainability goals.
Consider reviewing:
- Contracts and tariffs: review your energy costs, terms, renewal dates, and market competitiveness.
- Renewable energy supply: check whether your electricity comes from renewable or low-carbon sources, how this is evidenced, and if alternative tariffs offer greater environmental benefits.
- Energy data and reporting: verify what consumption and cost data your supplier provides, such as smart meter data, to support carbon reporting and identify savings.
- Supplier support and services: ask if your supplier or procurement provider offers additional services like bill validation, energy analysis, or efficiency advice.
- Future opportunities: explore whether your setup can support on-site renewable generation, electricity export, electric vehicle charging, or low-carbon heating.
When reviewing arrangements, check how suppliers evidence their environmental credentials. Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin (REGOs) demonstrate that electricity comes from renewable sources. Ask suppliers how their tariffs are verified and whether they support new renewable generation projects.
Why
Energy is often one of your setting's largest sources of carbon emissions and operational costs. Switching to a greener supply can significantly reduce your environmental impact while ensuring you receive good value.
Because energy markets change over time, regular reviews help identify opportunities to lower costs, emissions, and risk.
How
A Business Manager, Finance or Procurement colleague may lead this work, with input from the Sustainability Lead and Estates/Facilities colleagues.
You don't need to be an energy market expert to review your arrangements. The goal is simply to understand what you are buying and ensure it supports your wider financial and sustainability objectives.
A full re-procurement isn't necessary for every review. However, contract renewal windows offer a prime opportunity to explore alternative suppliers, improve sustainability, and secure better rates.
For smaller settings: understanding your current contract and speaking to your supplier may be a useful starting point.
Trusts or larger organisations: If a central procurement team manages your contracts, aim to develop an energy re-procurement plan well ahead of renewal dates.
Resources
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Renewable Energy Procurement - the role of the built environment in decarbonising the UK's electricity system
UK Green Building CouncilFree