Court Ruling Could Mean Big Refunds for Business Energy Contracts

Energy Fat Cats in Court

A landmark Court of Appeal decision has strengthened the ability of UK businesses to reclaim money lost to hidden energy broker fees. The case 'Expert Tooling & Automation Ltd v Engie Power Ltd' confirms that energy brokers must fully disclose the details of their commissions. Failure to do so could mean that commissions are recoverable.

For businesses locked into expensive tariffs arranged by brokers, this ruling could be a turning point.

What Are Hidden Energy Broker Fees?

In many commercial energy contracts, a broker acts as the middleman between the business and the supplier. They are often paid a commission by the supplier, which can be:

• Added directly to your energy unit rate

• Higher for longer contracts

• Paid as a lump sum upfront

When a broker only says they “may receive a commission” but hides the key facts, such as the exact amount, how it’s calculated, and how it affects your price, it is called a half-secret commission.

The Court of Appeal made clear: this is not enough for “informed consent”, and the money could be claimed back.

Why This Court Case Matters

This decision affects any UK business that:

• Used a broker to arrange their gas or electricity

• Was not given a clear written breakdown of broker commissions

• Ended up on a higher tariff than necessary

The Court confirmed:

• Full transparency is required as partial disclosure is not enough

• Businesses can claim even if they suspected a commission existed

• The limitation period starts when the commission is paid, not when the contract was signed

This last point is crucial: many older contracts may still be within the time limit for claims.

How Clear Charge Claims Helps Businesses

At Clear Charge Claims, we specialise in uncovering inflated and undisclosed tariffs hidden in energy contracts. Our process is simple:

1. Free contract review – We analyse your past and current energy agreements.

2. Hidden fee detection – We identify excessive or undisclosed broker commissions.

3. Full claims handling – We pursue refunds directly from suppliers or brokers.

4. No win, no fee – You only pay if we recover money for you.

We’ve helped businesses in retail, hospitality, manufacturing and more reclaim thousands of pounds.

Time Limits Apply So

Act Now

If you’ve been mis-sold an energy contract, delaying could cost you your claim. With this ruling, thousands of businesses may now qualify for refunds but action must be taken before deadlines expire.

Check Your Eligibility in Minutes

Fill out our quick online claim form or call us on 01254 922716. No upfront costs. No obligation. Just the facts on whether you’re owed money.