News
15 Aug 2025
At Zenergi, we believe energy procurement should feel like a partnership, not a guessing game. That’s why we’re here to set the record straight. Below, we bust some common myths we hear from school leaders and show how our flexible, transparent approach can help you take back control.
The truth: You don’t have to choose between certainty and control
At Zenergi, we know energy procurement isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach, because no two schools are the same. “We’ve designed our procurement strategy to give schools choice and control,” explains Alex Payne, our Director of Energy Markets and Procurement. “Fixed-price contracts work well if you need budget certainty. But for schools that want to take advantage of market dips, we offer flexible options where you buy energy in stages, rather than all in one go.”
Simon Oxenham, COO at Woodard Academy Trust, turned to Zenergi when energy prices were spiralling. “We were looking at a 300% rise in our gas costs,” Simon says. “Zenergi talked to us about flexible contracts and we ended up saving over 40% in that first year alone. Their team’s market timing made a huge difference and gave our trustees peace of mind.”
The truth: Smaller schools can access the same advantages
Flexible contracts usually need large energy volumes, but smaller schools don’t have to miss out. Our Zen Secure approach blends the best of both worlds. You can start flexibly, buying energy in chunks as prices move, and then lock in a final fixed price at the right time, before the new contract year begins.
We group smaller schools into “baskets” to trade collectively, unlocking competitive prices usually reserved for larger organisations. “It gives schools budget certainty and the ability to make the most of falling market prices,” says Alex. “And if your school isn’t big enough to qualify for a flexible contract on its own, we pool you into a basket with like-minded schools, so everyone benefits.”
The success of which can be seen in our flexible gas and electricity baskets, which recently outperformed market averages by 24% and 33%.
The truth: Real support starts after the contract
At Zenergi, we don’t just secure contracts and walk away. We stay with you through the entire contract lifecycle, making sure your meters are live, billing is accurate, and suppliers deliver as promised.
Alex sums it up: “Procurement is just the start. If there’s a problem, we fix it before you even know it’s there.”
But there’s more. The energy market moves fast, and staying on top can feel overwhelming. That’s why our Energy and Risk team monitors the market in real time. “We provide daily updates and monthly summaries, so schools know what’s happening, why, and how it might affect them.”
It’s not about flooding you with data. It’s about clear insights that help you feel confident when making decisions. Less time chasing suppliers, more time focusing on what matters most to your school.
The truth: Not always, and that can lead to budget surprises
Many fixed-price contracts only cover the wholesale cost of energy. But around half of your bill can come from “non-commodity” charges which often fluctuate.
“We help schools fix non-commodity costs too,” says Alex. “So even if they choose a flexible contract, we can still lock in things like taxes and levies. That way, schools get budget certainty and avoid nasty surprises down the line.”
The truth: Contract length should suit you
Traditional energy suppliers often lock schools into long contracts. At Zenergi, we offer one-year, two-year, and multi-year contracts – whatever fits your needs.
“Some schools want shorter contracts so they can stay agile,” says Alex. “Others want to fix things for longer and get security. Either way, Zen Secure gives you control over when you lock in pricing, so you’re never stuck overpaying because the market moved.”
The truth: They often need it more
Independent and boarding schools often have more procurement freedom but face unique challenges, from VAT on residential buildings to sustainability goals. But, we work closely with independent schools to tailor contracts that fit your goals, timelines, and regulations, whether that’s renewable electricity, flexible buying, or governance support.
Zenergi is trusted by over 3,000 schools and MATs, endorsed by ISBL and ISBA, and committed to helping you meet your energy goals with clarity and confidence. While others may overpromise and disappear after the contract’s signed, we’re here for the long haul, building real relationships and delivering real results.
Because as Alex puts it, “It’s not just about procurement. It’s about making life easier for schools.”
Whether you need budget certainty, flexible control, or a long-term plan to reach net zero, we’ll help you get there, step by step, and always by your side.
Energy procurement is often misunderstood. Complex contracts, limited choices, and increasing pressure to make the right decision can turn it into a real challenge.
At Zenergi, we believe energy procurement should be straightforward, designed to give schools greater choice and more control.
