Energy Broker Dispute Resolution Scheme registration window open

Registration window open for new Energy Broker Dispute Resolution Scheme

By Linnea Marron, Senior Marketing Executive | Posted August 15, 2022

Over the last 18 months, Ofgem have been running a ‘Microbusiness Strategic Review’, which included a call for evidence and a statutory consultation. As a result, it was decided that energy suppliers will only be able to work with energy brokers (aka third-party intermediaries, channel partners) who are delivering services to a microbusiness, if they are signed up to an approved dispute resolution scheme.

On Monday 28th March 2022, Ofgem confirmed Ombudsman Services will be the Alternative Dispute Resolution provider for the new Energy Broker scheme. Ombudsman Services will be there to help resolve disputes between energy suppliers/brokers and their customers. If you are an energy broker working with microbusinesses, read on to find out more on registration for the scheme.

Key dates

Register as soon as possible to avoid delay

Registration for the scheme is currently open and in order to guarantee you are registered by the 1st December 2022 you will need to register by the 31st August 2022.

Ofgem and the Ombudsman Services have agreed a four-phase timeline as follows:

26th April – 31st August: Registration window for energy brokers now open
October: Confirmation of acceptance to the scheme and invoicing
November: Energy brokers added to the scheme register
1st December: Scheme goes live.

It’s important that energy brokers begin the registration process as soon as possible to avoid any possible delays affecting their ability to sell energy contracts on behalf of energy suppliers.

What do I need to register?

You will need to complete the Deed Poll form and supply a copy of your Complaints handling procedure (CHP). The current annual membership subscription is £300 per member, there are also further fees per case.

How do you register?

On the Ombudsman website you can access the scheme registration form. The website includes videos of the sessions completed by the Ombudsman, FAQ’s and supporting documents/guides.

Our teams at EDF will be communicating directly with our channel partners in the coming weeks to further explain how the new measures brought in following the Microbusiness Strategic Review may affect you. In the meantime, if you have any questions please reach out to your Account Manager directly.