An energy broker is a go-between who helps businesses find better energy deals by comparing suppliers, negotiating contracts, and offering strategic advice. They don’t generate power themselves, but they do have the knowledge and access to help you cut through the confusion of electricity plans, fluctuating rates, and retail mark-ups.

In short: an energy broker can turn your monthly power pain into a predictable and often cheaper part of running your business.

What does an energy broker actually do?

An energy broker acts on your behalf—not the energy retailer’s. Their main role is to:

• Analyse your past energy usage

• Compare rates and offers across multiple providers

• Recommend the most suitable plan based on your business profile

• Handle paperwork and transitions

• Provide contract management and renewal reminders

Think of them like your accountant—but for electricity and gas. And if you run a high-usage business (like a bakery, gym, or commercial kitchen), their advice can mean the difference between making budget or blowing it.

Why are energy brokers useful for small businesses?

Because comparing energy providers is time-consuming, and most small business owners simply don’t have the hours—or the headspace—to dig through tariffs and terms.

A good energy broker:

• Knows which providers offer genuine discounts (and which don’t)

• Spots red flags in small print, like price resets or exit fees

• Times your contract to avoid wholesale price spikes

• Can bundle multiple sites under a single agreement

For example, a Newcastle café chain recently cut its annual energy spend by 18% after a broker pointed out they were paying commercial peak rates—even on Sundays, when they were closed.

Do energy brokers cost money?

Sometimes. Some brokers charge the business directly, usually as a fixed fee. Others work on commission, getting paid by the energy retailer when a contract is signed.

The key is transparency. A good broker will tell you:

• How they get paid

• Which retailers they work with

• Whether they're offering whole-of-market comparisons or just a selected panel

In many cases, the broker’s involvement won’t cost you extra—but it can still save you thousands over a multi-year contract.

What’s the difference between a broker and a comparison website?

It’s a fair question. Energy comparison sites are everywhere, promising quick wins with flashy discount percentages.

But here’s the catch:

• Most comparison sites target residential users

• They often don’t show commercial-only rates

• They can’t negotiate special terms or account for usage quirks

• They might only list offers from a limited number of retailers

By contrast, an energy broker can:

• Analyse your load profile in detail

• Present pricing options based on your usage pattern

• Factor in demand charges, time-of-use rates, and multi-meter discounts

Anyone who’s tried to run a business off a residential comparison tool knows—it rarely ends well.

Can brokers help in times of high energy prices?

Absolutely. During energy price spikes (like those triggered by wholesale market instability or supply shortages), brokers can act as a safety net.

They might:

• Lock in fixed rates before tariffs jump

• Shift you onto demand-based pricing if it's more suitable

• Help spread usage across off-peak periods

• Recommend embedded networks or solar PPAs for long-term savings

During the 2022 energy crisis in Australia, many brokers helped businesses avoid 30–40% hikes by advising on fixed-term contracts before prices rose.

What’s an example of an energy broker saving money?

Let’s say you're running a chain of butcher shops in Victoria. Refrigeration is running 24/7, and your bills are climbing faster than meat prices.

One energy broker noticed the client was on an outdated standing offer—no discount, no consumption flexibility. By negotiating a multi-site contract with an embedded load-shifting model, the broker:

• Dropped their rate by 12c/kWh

• Adjusted their billing cycle to match off-peak times

• Removed hidden demand charges

The result? A 22% drop in annual energy costs, worth over $15,000 across the network.

Are energy brokers regulated in Australia?

Not nationally, but they are still subject to consumer law.

The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) monitors retail practices, and in states like Victoria, the Essential Services Commission imposes extra oversight. Reputable brokers will often:

• Provide a written disclosure of fees and commissions

• Offer a cooling-off period

• Maintain client confidentiality

• Operate under voluntary codes of conduct

If you’re ever pressured into a contract or given vague answers about pricing, that’s your cue to walk.

Do brokers help with green energy and sustainability?

Yes—more and more brokers are working closely with businesses that want to reduce their carbon impact or improve ESG reporting.

They can help with:

• Green energy sourcing (100% renewables)

• Carbon offset options

• Solar or battery integration plans

• Virtual Power Plant (VPP) participation

• Sustainability-linked pricing models

This is particularly useful for retail chains, manufacturers, or schools looking to align energy strategy with net-zero goals—without blowing the budget.

FAQ

Do I need a broker if my business only has one location?
If your bills are unpredictable or you suspect you’re overpaying, it’s worth having one review your usage—even for single sites.

Can brokers help with gas as well as electricity?
Yes, many commercial brokers deal with both electricity and gas, often bundling contracts for savings.

How do I know if my broker is independent?
Ask if they compare the full market and disclose commissions. Transparency is key.

Final thoughts: Should your business use an energy broker?

If you’re paying energy bills, the answer is likely yes.

It’s not about shopping around every year—it’s about setting your business up with a strategy that matches how you actually use power. That could mean shifting to off-peak rates, negotiating multi-site discounts, or locking in prices before the market moves.

For Aussie businesses trying to run leaner without cutting corners, working with an energy broker can be one of the smartest (and simplest) financial decisions you'll make.