An energy buyer manages the purchase of electricity and gas for a business, ensuring the right mix of price, reliability, and contract conditions to meet operational needs. They track market trends, negotiate deals, and help businesses avoid costly mistakes—like rolling into overpriced default rates or signing up for inflexible contracts.

At first glance, it might sound like a niche admin job. But anyone who’s ever watched their power bill double over summer knows—energy buying isn’t just a spreadsheet task. It’s strategy.

Why do businesses need energy buyers?

Because energy costs are unpredictable—and high. In Australia, energy can be one of the top three operating expenses for industries like food processing, aged care, retail, and manufacturing. One poor contract can eat away at already tight margins.

An energy buyer steps in to:

• Lock in fair pricing and avoid volatility

• Analyse usage trends and identify savings opportunities

• Coordinate multi-site contracts or centralised purchasing

• Align energy spend with budget forecasts and ESG goals

Most of all, they make sure the business isn't flying blind when the market shifts.

What are the key responsibilities of an energy buyer?

Energy buyers do a lot more than pick a cheap plan. Their day-to-day usually includes:

• Monitoring energy markets to spot favourable buying windows

• Comparing quotes from multiple energy retailers

• Negotiating contract terms (length, exit clauses, demand charges)

• Tracking usage data across time, location, and equipment

• Budget forecasting and internal reporting

• Advising on operational shifts (like running equipment off-peak)

• Sourcing renewables or carbon-neutral options where needed

In larger businesses, they may also coordinate with facilities, finance, or sustainability teams.

Is an energy buyer the same as an energy broker?

Not quite—but they often work closely together.

Role Energy Buyer Energy Broker Employed by The business Third-party advisor Focus Long-term strategy, internal reporting Market access, plan comparison Paid by Business directly Usually via commission from the retailer Works with Internal teams Multiple retailers on behalf of clients

An energy buyer might engage a broker to source market quotes and structure deals. But the buyer retains control over the broader strategy—balancing cost with operational and sustainability goals.

In smaller businesses, the roles sometimes blur. A trusted energy broker may effectively act as a virtual energy buyer—particularly if they offer contract management and usage advice.

How do energy buyers help manage risk?

Energy buyers don’t just chase the cheapest price. They look at the risk behind each offer.

For example:

• Fixed vs variable pricing – Locking in rates might offer security, but it can mean missing out on market dips.

• Demand charges – Some contracts charge based on peak usage rather than total consumption.

• Contract length – Committing for too long can backfire if business needs change or prices drop.

An experienced buyer models different scenarios to balance stability and flexibility. They know that what looks like a good deal on paper can fall apart in practice—especially when seasonal demand or production cycles are involved.

Can energy buyers support sustainability goals?

Definitely. In fact, they often lead the charge on emissions reduction.

A good energy buyer can:

• Source renewable electricity (e.g. GreenPower or solar PPAs)

• Monitor and reduce Scope 2 emissions

• Align contracts with ESG frameworks

• Help implement onsite generation (solar, batteries)

• Advise on energy-efficiency investments

Take the example of a regional university that wanted to cut its emissions by 50% by 2026. Their energy buyer switched their grid supply to a carbon-neutral contract, negotiated a solar agreement, and staggered HVAC usage across buildings. In two years, they cut energy emissions by 41%—without blowing their budget.

What kind of businesses should have an energy buyer?

If you're spending more than $50,000 a year on energy—or you operate across multiple sites—having a dedicated energy buyer (or broker partner) is a smart move.

Industries that commonly rely on energy buyers include:

• Manufacturing and fabrication

• Cold storage and logistics

• Aged care and hospitals

• Hospitality and large-format retail

• Local government and education

Even mid-sized gyms, breweries, and commercial laundries can benefit. Especially when peak demand charges or equipment run-time creates energy cost spikes.

What skills make a good energy buyer?

It’s part technical, part commercial, and part negotiation. The best energy buyers usually:

• Understand tariff structures and market signals

• Read the fine print on contracts

• Communicate clearly with finance, ops, and external brokers

• Forecast and manage energy budgets

• Stay curious—markets change fast, and yesterday’s good deal might be today’s loss

Above all, they bring calm, clear thinking to a market that can be anything but.

Real example: How one buyer saved $60,000 in 12 months

A Melbourne-based cold storage facility faced rising energy costs due to sharp peak demand. Their energy buyer:

• Analysed demand data across 15-minute intervals

• Shifted refrigeration cycling slightly to avoid peak windows

• Worked with an energy broker to restructure contracts

• Recommended the installation of real-time monitoring software

The result? A 17% cost reduction in one year—and smoother budgeting moving forward.

FAQ

Do I need an energy buyer if I already use an energy broker?
Maybe not. Many brokers offer contract management and usage reviews. Just make sure they compare multiple retailers and disclose their commission structure.

Can an energy buyer help me go green?
Absolutely. They can identify credible renewable contracts, negotiate solar deals, and ensure emissions tracking aligns with your reporting needs.

What if I only run one location?
If your usage is high or you’re paying more than $10,000 a quarter, it may still be worth working with a broker or part-time energy advisor.

Final thoughts: It’s not just about cheaper bills

Energy buyers aren’t chasing discounts—they’re building resilience. In a market where prices fluctuate, emissions targets matter, and business costs keep rising, someone has to keep the lights on without burning through the budget.

For many businesses, working with an experienced energy broker is the first step to understanding your usage, improving your contract terms, and making smarter energy decisions.