Shared council procurement service extends partnership with energy consultant

STAR Procurement, a shared procurement service representing a number of councils and NHS organisations in the North West, including Stockport Council, has extended its partnership with energy consultant, Equity Energies for a further two years.

The extension of the contract through to 2027 follows a successful three-year collaboration that has delivered significant financial benefits and strategic energy management improvements for public sector organisations.

The service has worked with Equity Energies to create an innovative energy procurement framework that has provided councils with access to more flexible procurement strategies, helping them navigate recent volatile energy markets while reducing costs. Recent trading performance analysis by the energy consultant’s Risk Team identified £11.1 million in cost avoidance in the first 18 months of the contract.

Paul Atherton, Procurement Business Partner at STAR Procurement, said:

“With councils across the UK facing immense financial pressures, this partnership is a prime example of how collaboration can drive efficiencies while ensuring each organisation maintains control over its procurement strategy. This partnership is enabling smarter energy purchasing and has delivered real value to our members, so we are delighted to continue this work through to 2027.”

By extending the contract, STAR Procurement reaffirms its commitment to securing long-term energy savings for public sector organisations. The current framework serves three councils – Trafford, Stockport and Rochdale – as well as Borough Care Group, supporting more than 700 sites across the region.

Key services provided by Equity Energies under the agreement include:

• Energy procurement: Delivering flexible purchasing strategies to ensure cost-effective energy supply.
• Invoice validation: Ensuring billing accuracy and identifying cost-saving opportunities.
• Budgeting and sustainability services: Helping councils optimise energy usage and meet Net Zero goals.

Atherton continued:

“The extension of this partnership is a testament to the results we’ve achieved together. With Equity Energies’ expertise, we’ve been able to support councils through an incredibly challenging period in the energy market, securing significant financial protection and stability. Ultimately, energy savings means more resources for other essential municipal services like schools, social care, waste management and infrastructure.”

James Rant, Strategic Account Director at Equity Energies, added:

“Our counterparts at STAR Procurement have done an amazing job at driving innovation, thought leadership, and value to their members. In a time of immense uncertainty for energy consumers, we are immensely proud of what has been achieved and look forward to building on this success.”