How to Verify Your Energy Tariffs
Energy costs are one of the largest operational expenses for properties. Landlords, project managers, and facilities managers often face complex tariffs that are difficult to verify. Incorrectly applied rates can lead to significant overpayments. EG-Audit provides independent verification of energy tariffs to ensure you only pay what is fair and accurate.
Understanding Energy Tariffs
Energy tariffs are the rates charged by suppliers for electricity, gas, or other energy services. They are often structured with multiple components:
- Unit Rate: The cost per kWh for electricity or per therm for gas.
- Standing Charge: A fixed daily or monthly fee for supply and infrastructure.
- Peak and Off-Peak Rates: Variable pricing based on usage periods.
- Environmental Levies: Charges for renewable energy obligations, carbon, or government-imposed fees.
- Contract-Specific Adjustments: Changes applied due to renegotiation or fixed-term contracts.
Misapplication of any component can inflate costs. Verification ensures compliance with contracts and accurate billing.
Step 1: Collect Your Energy Documentation
Begin by gathering all relevant information:
- Recent and historical energy invoices
- Energy supply contracts and tariff agreements
- Meter readings and consumption data
- Correspondence with energy suppliers
- Any additional charges or adjustment notices
EG-Audit provides a structured checklist to ensure you collect all documentation required for thorough verification.
Step 2: Compare Invoices to Tariff Agreements
Verify that charges match the agreed tariffs and contract terms:
- Check unit rates against the contract
- Confirm standing charges are correctly applied
- Ensure peak and off-peak usage is correctly billed
- Validate any adjustments, discounts, or penalties
- Identify unexplained or inconsistent fees
EG-Audit audits each line item to identify discrepancies and potential overpayment.
Step 3: Benchmark Against Market Rates
Comparing your energy costs to market benchmarks helps identify if you are paying above average:
- Compare unit rates with industry averages or similar properties
- Check standing charges against typical supplier fees
- Assess environmental levies and additional charges for fairness
- Identify opportunities to renegotiate or switch tariffs
- Spot unusual spikes or patterns that indicate errors
EG-Audit provides benchmarking reports to highlight areas where savings may be possible.
Step 4: Investigate Anomalies
If invoices deviate from agreements or benchmarks, investigate the cause:
- Check for estimated vs actual meter readings
- Review previous billing periods for consistency
- Confirm supplier adjustments or corrections are valid
- Look for misapplied tariffs or duplicate charges
- Document findings clearly for review or dispute
EG-Audit’s forensic review identifies the root cause of anomalies and quantifies potential overpayments.
Step 5: Engage Suppliers or Experts
When discrepancies are found, engage with suppliers professionally:
- Present documented evidence of the discrepancy
- Request clarification, correction, or refund
- Follow contractual dispute resolution procedures
- Maintain written records of all communications
- Escalate to independent audit if resolution is not achieved
EG-Audit guides property professionals through supplier engagement to ensure results are fair and documented.
Benefits of Verifying Energy Tariffs
- Reduce risk of overpayment
- Ensure billing aligns with contracts and agreements
- Identify opportunities for cost savings
- Improve budget forecasting and financial planning
- Gain confidence and control over energy expenditure
Verification ensures transparency, protects budgets, and empowers property professionals to make informed decisions.
Take Action Today
Energy tariffs can be complex, but overpayments are avoidable. EG-Audit provides independent audits to verify tariffs, identify errors, and guide corrective action. Take control of your energy costs today and secure clarity, savings, and peace of mind.