Criteria

The energy broker must follow ethical practices such as the UIA Code of Conduct. The broker must not have any negative news or controversies involving the energy broker. The energy broker must have a data protection policy in place and should be registered with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO).  

The broker must have a responsiveness and helpfulness customer service team. The energy broker must have a positive track record of delivering savings for their clients. References, case studies, online reviews and honours are reflected in the Reliable Score we accredit the broker. The broker should also be able to supply valuable insights and recommendations based on recent changes to regulations and policies.

The energy broker must provide a breakdown of their fees and commissions. Reliable brokers need to disclose any potential conflicts of interest, such as if they receive commissions from energy suppliers and how it is calculated, along with the total value. We also review the broker's contract terms and make sure that any hidden fees or restrictions that could impact the end user ability to switch energy suppliers are clear to the end user.

A broker must have a valid license from Ofgem, the UK energy regulator. In order to get accredited the broker would need to be signed up to the ADR Scheme and to supply the membership number. Accreditations from industry bodies such as the Utilities Intermediaries Association (UIA), The Energy Services and Technology Association (ESTA) or the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) are necessary in some cases. .