Has your site changed more than its electricity supply?
Here’s why your energy costs could be rising, even with competitive unit prices
For years, energy procurement has focused on one key objective: securing the best possible unit rate. However, for many commercial and industrial organisations, that’s no longer where the biggest cost is coming from.
Today, a growing proportion of energy bills are being driven by network charges; the cost of transporting electricity across the UK’s transmission and distribution networks. And as investment in energy infrastructure ramps up, costs continue to rise with increases expected for years to come.
In 2026 alone, transmission-related charges shot up by more than 60% for some High Voltage (HV) electricity supplies.
So the question isn’t just “what am I paying for energy?” but “am I connected to the network in the most cost-effective way?”
Hidden costs that are often overlooked
Across the UK, sites that were originally designed for intensive industrial operations have evolved. Manufacturing facilities have become warehouses, former production sites are now distribution hubs and industrial units have been transformed into mixed-use commercial premises. There are countless examples.
Yet, despite changes in how sites operate, the electrical infrastructure often remains the same. Meaning many organisations continue to be supplied at high voltage even though their energy demand no longer justifies it.
As network costs rise, these businesses are paying significantly more than necessary. All because their supply arrangements haven’t been reassessed. Our energy procurement team can help with this.
Looking beyond energy procurement
At Kendra, we understand that intelligent energy procurement goes beyond sourcing competitive contracts. Securing a strong energy price is part of it, but true value comes from exploring the bigger picture:
- How your site consumes energy
- How your supply is configured
- How network charges impact your bill
- Whether infrastructure changes could unlock savings
- How future technologies such as battery storage could support your strategy
Our approach is holistic. We pinpoint opportunities to reduce overall energy cost and boost long-term operational efficiency.
Could a HV to LV switch work for you?
If your site’s electrical demand has reduced over time, switching your supply from high voltage to low voltage could result in substantial savings.
When a site is viable for a HV to LV switch, our energy procurement team supports at every stage. From initial assessment and project coordination to supply contract negotiation. But prior to any decisions, we ensure customers understand potential savings, project costs and expected return on investment.
Why choose Kendra
There’s no shortage of energy brokers in the market but our energy services offering is built on an incredibly strong foundation.
For decades, thousands of organisations across the UK have trusted Kendra to help them understand, manage and optimise their building energy performance. We’re a trusted energy partner with a reputation for delivering quality service.
Our clients benefit from:
- Extensive experience across electricity, gas and water procurement
- Long-standing relationships with major utility providers
- Expertise in fixed and flexible purchasing strategies
- Support for complex multi-site portfolios
- Detailed market intelligence and risk analysis
- Guidance on compliance and reporting requirements
- Advice that aligns with wider energy reduction and net zero objectives
Most importantly, we focus on helping organisations make informed decisions rather than simply selling contracts
The future of energy procurement
As network costs continue to increase, businesses that focus solely on unit rates risk missing some of the largest savings opportunities available to them.
In the coming years, organisations that take a broader view of procurement, infrastructure and energy strategy will be most effective in managing their energy costs. And at Kendra, that’s exactly what we help our clients achieve.
Find out if you’re accidentally sitting on huge energy cost savings
Speak to one of our energy procurement experts. Email info@kendraenergy.co.ukor contact your local office.
