ECA Open Letter to Ofgem on Data

Why It Matters

Without a tailored framework, smaller TPIs may be locked out, weakening competition and slowing non‑domestic decarbonisation efforts.

Key Takeaways

• ECA urges separate non‑domestic data‑access framework from Ofgem.
• Current consent models risk blocking TPIs and brokers from half‑hourly data.
• Barriers could reduce competition, switching and net‑zero project delivery.
• Non‑domestic data often not personal, should use authority‑based access.
• ECA calls for proportional controls: accreditation, audit trails, role‑based rights.

Pulse Analysis

The UK’s non‑domestic energy market is on the cusp of a data revolution. Initiatives such as RECCo’s Consumer Consent Solution (CCS) and Elexon’s Smart Data Repository (SDR) aim to centralise half‑hourly consumption records that were previously scattered across supplier platforms. While the intent is to improve transparency and enable advanced products—time‑of‑use tariffs, demand‑response schemes, and carbon reporting—the regulatory design is being driven largely by domestic‑consumer expectations. This creates a mismatch for businesses, charities and public bodies that rely on third‑party advisers to interpret the granular data required for cost‑effective switching and sustainability planning.

For third‑party intermediaries (TPIs) and energy brokers, the emerging consent‑heavy workflow poses a practical barrier. Small organisations often lack the internal resources to complete repeated identity‑verification steps, submit personal documents, or navigate multiple portal logins for each quotation. If access to half‑hourly data becomes contingent on a domestic‑style consent journey, many customers will simply stay with incumbent suppliers, eroding price competition and limiting independent verification of bills. Moreover, the loss of timely data hampers the modelling of solar, battery storage and demand‑side response projects, slowing the delivery of net‑zero targets in the commercial sector.

The Energy Consultants Association is pressing regulators to adopt a proportionate, authority‑based access route for non‑domestic accounts. Its proposal includes recognised mandates such as letters of authority, consultancy agreements or director approvals, coupled with robust safeguards—accreditation, audit trails, role‑based permissions and clear dispute mechanisms. By separating non‑domestic data governance from the consumer‑consent model, the industry can preserve competition, encourage innovative service offerings and maintain momentum toward decarbonisation. Stakeholders are urged to engage with Ofgem, DESNZ and other bodies now, ensuring that the final framework supports both data security and market dynamism.