In January 1981, with the Human League’s number one hit “Don’t you want me” playing in the background, Control Energy Costs was set up in a small office in Streatham.
We incorporated on 10th March that year and are still going strong 40 years later. Clients, it seems, DO want us!
It’s been a great journey, that saw us move to Tollers Farm in Coulsdon and then to Kingsgate in Redhill, where we are today.
There has been a massive change in the energy industry in that time, with deregulation, competition and now the move to renewable energy and net zero. We have been at the forefront of those developments, ensuring our clients get an energy deal that suits their business.
Our people have made the last 40 years possible. Going forward, we have a wellbeing programme to support them and a scheme to grow talent in-house. We were awarded Investors in People accreditation in 2020 and were shortlisted for their “Small Business Award”.
I have been with Control Energy Costs since 1997 – not far off my 25th anniversary now – and became a director in 2007. In 2014, Daniel Oman, Chris Ellis and I completed a management buyout from the previous owners.
Looking forward, as well as supporting our people, we have a strong focus on helping clients start their journey to net zero and supporting them to secure the best possible deal in an evolving renewable energy landscape.
Of course, we also hope to return to the office on a flexible basis very soon, driven by what is best for each team member and their work-life balance.
It is such an achievement to reach this milestone. Our big celebration is on hold for the time being, but we will be doing something virtually in the meantime!