Short answer
Multi-site energy procurement means managing contracts for many supplies together, so end dates, terms and billing are under control. It starts with one accurate site list.
Key takeaways
- Start with one accurate site list for every supply.
- Align end dates over time so the portfolio renews together.
- Check how sites are added and removed in portfolio contracts.
Common problems in multi-site portfolios
- End dates spread through the year, so something is always about to lapse
- Sites quietly sitting on out-of-contract rates
- Bills from several suppliers in different formats
- Sites opened or closed without contracts being updated
- Paying standing charges on supplies no longer used
Step 1: build a site list
| Field | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Site name and address | Identifies each premises |
| MPAN or MPRN | Identifies each supply point |
| Supplier and contract end date | Shows when each site can move |
| Annual consumption | Needed for pricing |
| Meter type (standard, smart, HH) | Affects how the site is priced |
| Billing contact and cost centre | Keeps invoices going to the right place |
Step 2: align end dates
Bring sites onto a common end date over time. As each existing contract ends, place it on a contract that finishes on the shared date. After one cycle, you review the whole portfolio at once.
Step 3: choose a buying approach
Portfolios can be bought on fixed contracts, or through flexible purchasing for larger volumes. See fixed vs flexible.
Portfolio contract terms to check
- How sites can be added or removed, and at what notice
- Volume tolerance across the portfolio
- Consolidated or site-by-site billing
- Whether all sites share one end date
Keep it up to date
Make updating the site list part of opening or closing any premises. Most problems in multi-site energy come from a list that no longer matches reality.
Who should own the portfolio
Multi-site energy works best when one person or team owns the site list, approves contracts and checks invoices. Without an owner, sites drift onto expensive rates and nobody notices until the bills arrive.
Invoice validation
With many sites, small billing errors add up. Regular checks on rates, readings and VAT treatment across all sites can catch problems early. Some brokers and energy consultants provide this as part of portfolio management.
Reporting for finance
- Total cost and consumption by site and by month
- Contracted versus out-of-contract supplies
- Upcoming end dates for the next 12 months
- Budget versus actual
Common mistakes
- Letting the site list go out of date
- Renewing each site separately without a plan
- Not checking how site additions and removals work in a portfolio contract
Sources
- Ofgem: Energy advice for businesses (ofgem.gov.uk)
Questions
Can sites with different end dates join one contract?
Often yes, by adding each site as its current contract ends.
Do I need half-hourly data for every site?
Only for half-hourly metered supplies. For others, annual consumption is usually enough.
Can I have one bill for all sites?
Many suppliers offer consolidated billing. Ask when reviewing.
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