The Biggest Mistakes Businesses Make When Procuring Energy (And How to Avoid Them)

Procurement decisions shape more than your budget—they shape your business. And yet, when it comes to energy, too many businesses fall into the same traps year after year.

At Indigo Swan, we’ve helped hundreds of organisations avoid costly missteps. We’ve saved our clients over £1M in the past 12 months—and that’s not just about finding better prices. It’s about avoiding the common mistakes that drain time, money, and trust.

So what are the biggest pitfalls? And how can you steer clear?

1. Auto-Renewing Without Checking the Market

It’s one of the most common—and costly—mistakes. Your contract rolls over, the rates increase, and before you know it, you’re locked into an expensive deal.

The fix? Always review the market. Indigo Swan gives you access to 26 trusted suppliers, and we make sure you’re comparing like-for-like offers—not just grabbing the first number on the page. Better information leads to better decisions.

2. Missing Your Contract End Date

A missed end date can mean sliding onto out-of-contract rates, which are often significantly more expensive. It’s like forgetting to cancel your gym membership—except it can cost your business thousands.

We track all your contract dates and alert you when it’s time to act. No more nasty surprises, no more rushed decisions.

3. Overlooking Customer Service & Billing Traps

It’s not just about price. Are you tied into rigid billing terms? Are you locked into a contract with poor service and limited support?

We go beyond the numbers. Indigo Swan helps you understand the full picture: billing type, contract flexibility, service response times—and how these impact your operations.

4. Underestimating the Time It Takes

Energy procurement can be a minefield—if you’re doing it alone. Comparing suppliers, negotiating terms, checking usage patterns… it takes serious time.

How many hours can your team afford to spend trying to become energy experts? We do the heavy lifting for you—so you can focus on what you do best.

5. Not Having the Right Expertise

You wouldn’t ask your finance team to install your IT systems. So why ask them to navigate volatile energy markets?

Our team lives and breathes energy. We understand the trends, the clauses, the pitfalls—and how to find the right deal for your specific needs.

6. Settling for Poor Costs or Poor Service

Too often, businesses accept inflated rates or poor service as a given. They don’t have the data—or the confidence—to challenge what they’re offered.

At Indigo Swan, we combine market access with genuine partnership. We’re not here to sell. We’re here to serve. With 90% client retention, we’re proud to say our customers stay because we deliver.

Avoid the Mistakes. Buy Better Energy.

Energy shouldn’t be a headache. It shouldn’t be a risk. It should be an opportunity—to save money, simplify processes, and move closer to your sustainability goals.

At Indigo Swan, we help businesses buy better energy. That means insight, service, transparency, and support. No jargon. No hidden fees. Just smart, strategic decisions backed by experience and integrity.

Let’s change energy, together.
Get in touch and see how we can help your business avoid the pitfalls—and unlock the potential

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