Managing energy costs can be a challenging aspect of running a farm or rural business, especially when navigating unpredictable energy markets.
Group energy purchasing is an approach that more businesses are turning to as a way to simplify energy management and access competitive terms.
Through the CLA Energy Club, now offered by CLA Energy Services, members have the opportunity to join a collective energy basket, leveraging the benefits of group buying power. Here’s how this works and why it might be a valuable approach.
What is group energy purchasing?
Group energy purchasing brings together the energy needs of several businesses into a single purchasing group, or “basket.” This approach allows smaller users to combine their buying power, often securing better terms than they could individually. When businesses work together in this way, suppliers are more willing to offer competitive rates and flexible terms, knowing that they are serving a larger group.
For CLA members, the CLA Energy Club provides a straightforward way to join this kind of arrangement, where the entire purchasing process is managed by CLA Energy Services. This setup means that members can focus on their core operations, with confidence that energy purchasing is handled professionally on their behalf.
Why group purchasing works for rural businesses
The benefits of group purchasing go beyond just securing better rates. For rural businesses that may not have the resources to negotiate independently with suppliers, the CLA Energy Club offers valuable support by handling the complexity of energy procurement.
In a group arrangement, each business can maintain its own energy contract but still benefit from the group’s collective buying power. This setup allows CLA members to gain competitive terms without giving up control of their own supply. The convenience of joining a group purchasing programme also means fewer administrative responsibilities, which can be a relief for busy farm and estate managers.
Flexible terms and support
One of the standout benefits of the CLA Energy Club is the flexible terms it offers. Unlike traditional fixed-rate contracts, which set a price at the outset, a flexible approach allows for energy to be purchased in stages. This flexibility can be beneficial if market conditions change, potentially offering savings that wouldn’t be available in a single-rate contract.
If you’re curious about how group energy purchasing through the CLA Energy Club could help your business, visit the CLA Energy Club webpage to learn more. The CLA Energy Services team is ready to answer your questions and guide you through the process. Contact them at energyservices@cla.org.uk or 0808 164 6151.
Comments