Shaping energy market regulation: Ofgem’s TPI Working Group

OnlineDIRECT is part of Ofgem’s TPI Working Group. Here’s what you need to know about the programme and what our inclusion means for our partners.

As the UK’s leading business energy aggregator, OnlineDIRECT has been a part of Ofgem’s TPI Programme Working Group for a while. And we’ve recently been accepted into the smaller Targeted Working Group – a great achievement for us as a business and testament to our standards and experience in the industry.   

Our inclusion in these exclusive working groups helps us provide additional value to our energy broker customers and energy supplier/partners too.

If you’re unsure what the purpose of Ofgem’s TPI Programme is, the regulations we help shape, and why you should care as a (potential) customer or partner, read on… 

What is Ofgem’s TPI Programme Working Group?  

Ofgem’s TPI Programme Working Group is an initiative aimed at improving standards among TPIs in the energy market and protecting consumers from unfair practices (by ensuring TPIs adhere to best practices and regulatory requirements). 

The group promotes a more transparent and consumer-friendly energy market by working closely with industry stakeholders, including suppliers.  This collaboration includes sharing best practices and insights to improve service levels and customer experiences, especially in areas such as LOA (Letter of Authority) acceptance and supplier accountability.  

OnlineDIRECT is proudly part of Ofgem’s Targeted Working Group 

OnlineDIRECT joined Ofgem’s smaller “Targeted Working Group” in August 2024, strengthening our role in shaping energy market regulations. This group, an extension of the existing TPI (Third Party Intermediary) forum, enables in-depth discussions among a select group of members on critical industry topics. 

For example, the open consultation around the regulation of TPIs in the retail energy market. 

With a focused approach, the group explores specific issues, gathers diverse views, and refines these into actionable insights, which are then shared with the main TPI forum for broader input. Regular updates and meeting summaries ensure transparency, keeping the larger forum informed and involved in shaping industry standards and practices. 

The working group consists of other leading TPIs, Ofgem representatives, and key trade body members. This diverse mix provides a well-rounded perspective, incorporating insights from various sectors of the energy market to effectively address issues and shape standards. 

Earning our seat at the TPI Working Group table 

To get into the TPI Working Group, we had to apply for a spot on Ofgem’s smaller working group, and several key strengths helped us succeed: 

  • Industry experience: With over 25 years in the energy market, OnlineDIRECT brings a wealth of expertise and insight 
  • Proven track record: Having managed over 1 million business energy contracts, we are uniquely positioned to offer valuable input and drive forward-looking initiatives within the group 

Benefits of OnlineDIRECT being in the TPI Working Group 

Being part of Ofgem’s working group offers several valuable benefits for our TPI customers (and supplier partners alike): 

  • Early insight into regulatory changes: We gain early insights into potential regulations, helping Brokers stay compliant and avoid disruptions
  • Influence on industry standards: We can advocate for TPI interests and help shape fair regulations that support the broker market 
  • Enhanced best practices: Working closely with industry leaders, we gain insights to refine processes, transparency, and efficiency – all passed on to our customers (and suppliers) 
  • Improved support and resources: We can tailor our energyengine® platform and services to align with the latest industry standards, keeping TPIs compliant and competitive 
  • Credibility and trust: Our role with Ofgem reinforces our commitment to transparency, making us a reliable partner for brokers aiming to stay ahead 

 

Learn from our team of energy experts by browsing our free broker resources, or get in touch to learn more about working with us as an energy broker, supplier or other product/service provider.  

 

Already working with us? Join us for an exclusive Broker Success webinar on 22nd January 2025 as we unpack some recent regulatory changes and updates to our “Ways of Working” documents. There’s also a chance to have your questions answered by our Compliance experts during the session. Register your interest in joining the webinar.