With energy commodity prices increasing by more than 1000% over the past 18 months, the impact on operational costs has of course become a much more prominent consideration for businesses than it has been in previous years.
However, it has always been a priority consideration for our team at Garness Jones when showing clients around prospective properties to potentially buy or lease.
Not only is knowing the energy performance of commercial premises essential, but also understanding what deals are available, when is best to sign up to them, and how the market is likely to fluctuate.
It is why we have long partnered with energy experts at Garness Jones, using experienced and knowledgeable consultants to support our clients.
This advice has helped businesses agree long term contracts at times when there has been a dip in the electricity and gas markets, saving potentially thousands of pounds by entering fixed term contracts at the right time.
Don’t listen to the media – get expert advice
Adam Franks, Managing Director of IM Energy, has worked closely with our team to advise many companies when investing in new premises.
And, despite the energy crisis we’ve all been talking about so long, he says now could still be the perfect time to push on with plans to invest or expand.
“As a business our work is to constantly monitor market conditions and legislation to be able to advise businesses on how it will affect their energy costs for the future. We have been proud to help Garness Jones clients with this,” he said.
“As we deal with all types of suppliers, from large internationals to local green energy providers, without having any commitment to any particular company, we are able to find the best price for businesses.”
Mr Franks advises businesses to be wary of simply following reports in the media over energy costs, as he says this could lead to ‘great opportunities being missed’.
“The media would have us believe that energy costs are going to continue spiralling and spiralling, and that damages confidence of businesses,” he said.
“The reality is that a volatile market breeds opportunity, and the market has started to turn, certainly over the past five or six weeks. The market price fell by 25% in October and that could well continue into 2023.
“We are constantly monitoring that, and are in regular touch with the team at Garness Jones, as they offer the property market expertise.
“The key is to know the live market and the forecasts to be able to sign new energy agreements when commodity prices have dipped, and know exactly how long it is best to sign for.”
Paul White, Director at Garness Jones, said: “We always seek to ensure we provide our clients not only with the best property advice, but also help ensure they are best placed to ensure their investment is best protected for the future.
“We are very fortunate to benefit from working with Adam and his team as they provide exceptional knowledge and insight into the energy markets.
“Having an insight into the long term energy forecasts, and that knowledge of which energy packages to choose, has never been more important than it is in the present climate, and it is a service we offer to all clients.”
