After dealing with thousands of businesses, including many fruit growers, I can safely say that most are paying too much for electricity.

Market forces change, but typically, any offer you receive from an energy retailer can be bettered - and this is where professional advice pays off eg TTEG recently saved a grower 15% (~ $150,000) over a 3 year contract.

To cut costs you need to manage the process and if your contract expires within 12 months you need to start now to optimise your electricity arrangements.

Obtain and Compare Offers

Prices vary dramatically so seek prices from the market when they are in your favour - not simply when a retailer comes knocking on your door.

What is the right timing? You can ring around a few retailers, but they will advise something that suits their commercial interest and not necessarily yours. Independent advice is available and historical information is accessible at www.nemmco.com.au.

It is critical you compare offers from retailers on an 'apples to apples' basis as several retailers have 'tricked up' pricing offers which appear great but actually cost you money, sometimes lots of it! 

Contract length can impact significantly on your cost and depends on the retailer's forward prices versus estimated future market prices. Again, seek retailer views, but remember your best interest may not be considered.

Retailer terms and conditions must be reviewed e.g. were you aware that if you sell your business, some retailers require you include the electricity contract in the sale and you are liable if you don't?