Section 20 Dispensation grants housing associations the authority to engage in energy supply contracts that extend beyond the standard 12-month limit.

At present, organisations are facing challenges in obtaining stable, long-term energy contracts because of the market’s current volatility.

Notably, housing associations aren’t required to adhere to the stipulations of Section 20 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 when procuring energy contracts lasting up to 12 months.

However, opting for extended energy contracts brings forth various advantages, including improved cost savings and protection against market fluctuations.

Understanding Section 20 Dispensation

  • Under Section 20 of the Act, housing associations are restricted from entering into contracts exceeding a 12-month duration where the ultimate costs are transferred to tenants, as seen with energy bills.

  • To enter into an energy supply contract that exceeds the 12-month period, housing associations must undergo a dispensation process. This process involves communicating their intent to tenants, discussing potential implications and inviting objections from tenants.

  • In this context, it’s essential that energy prices remain valid for an entire 56-day consultation period. Given the inherent volatility of energy markets, prices rarely remain valid beyond the same day, let alone 56 days.

  • Another viable option to obtain dispensation from the consultation requirements is to submit an application to the First-tier Tribunal.

The Benefits of Section 20 Dispensation:

While the process of seeking dispensation from Section 20 consultation may seem like a routine regulatory exercise, it carries significant advantages for housing associations and their tenants when securing longer-term energy contracts.

Tradable gas and power markets extend up to three years in advance, and committing to extended contracts offers enhanced visibility into future prices and a detailed breakdown of non-commodity charges.

This, in turn, equips housing associations with better tools for effective budgeting in the long run.

Moreover, the act of seeking dispensation from Section 20 consultation opens doors for housing associations to explore extended energy contracts and a broader spectrum of procurement alternatives.

Contracts spanning more than 12 months provide improved risk management and hedging opportunities.

By gaining access to a wider array of energy procurement options, housing associations can unlock additional value, benefiting both themselves and their tenants.

Section 20 Dispensation with EIC

When seeking dispensation from Section 20 Act requirements through EIC, you gain valuable assistance from our proficient trading and risk management desk.

How do we make that possible?

While the scope of support is somewhat restricted within a 12-month energy contract, opting for more extensive flexible procurement agreements enables our energy market experts to play a more substantial role in the entire process.

Expert Monitoring

Our experts carefully monitor the market dynamics to secure the most favourable prices on your behalf.

Guidance

If the idea of dispensation from the Section 20 Act appeals to you, we can guide you through the completion and submission of the First-tier Tribunal dispensation application form.

Written Assistance

Additionally, we’ll assist in crafting a notification letter for tenants. This letter will not only confirm the dispensation but also provide supplementary information, aiding tenants in understanding the reasons behind your decision.

Furthermore, it affords your tenants the opportunity to express support or objection to the dispensation.

Process of Section 20 Dispensation with EIC

Our Section 20 Dispensation process is very straightforward and convenient

01. Contact us

You complete the contact form or call 0208 836 3535 / 020 8836 3535

02. FREE, no-obligation consultation

We get in touch with you to fully understand your energy requirements. We might request information about your business’s energy usage to create a personalised procurement strategy.

03. Contract negotiation

As an independent entity, we use our expert market analysis to fairly secure the best energy contract from top energy suppliers.

FAQ about Section 20 Dispensation

EIC stands out from other energy consultancies because we’re completely independent.

This independence allows us to offer supply options from a wide range of energy suppliers, all of whom are unrelated.

Our energy advice is unbiased, giving you the freedom to make informed decisions for your business.

We have a proven track record of skilfully negotiating cost-effective contracts, ensuring you consistently get the best energy prices when you partner with us.

If you’re already working with an energy consultancy, it’s a good idea to start exploring your options well in advance, preferably 18 to 24 months before your current supply contract expires.

It’s essential to distinguish between your energy supply contract and your energy consultancy agreement.

You have the flexibility to switch your energy consultancy while keeping your current energy supplier intact.

Our comprehensive account managed service provides our clients with peace of mind throughout the entire energy procurement process.

When you choose our fixed energy procurement service, we’ll assign an account manager to you, someone equipped with the expertise and abilities to provide a customised solution that aligns with your unique needs and requirements.

The professionals who make up our dedicated procurement team are well-versed in resolving inquiries and skilled in engaging with energy suppliers to negotiate contracts on your behalf.

The timing for transitioning to a new energy contract is flexible; you aren’t bound by a fixed schedule or renewal date.

Given the ongoing high volatility in the global energy market, it’s increasingly crucial to look beyond traditional renewal dates when contemplating a new contract.

Partner with EIC for Stable Energy Costs

Contact us at 0208 836 3535 or submitting the contact form today, and take the first step towards securing your energy costs!

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Ready for budget stability? Find out why hundreds of businesses in the UK choose us and stay. Get in touch with EIC for a consultation on the advantages of fixed energy procurement.