Grip on Energy Management is strategically important for companies

The energy market used to be predictable and transparent for many years, but it has now evolved into a complex playing field with numerous uncertainties and challenges. Energy is no longer an always-available and budgeted commodity; instead, it is essential and often strategically significant, directly impacting business operations and outcomes.

“It is crucial to opt for a comprehensive energy strategy that considers far more factors than just the purchase price”.

With offices in Middelburg and Rotterdam, COMCAM operates in nine countries and assists organizations in maintaining manageable and affordable energy management. Their advisors are seasoned specialists with extensive experience in the energy market.

“Spending too much money simply because subsidies are tempting is not economically wise. It also has nothing to do with sustainability. We will never recommend such an approach.”

Many energy advisors do not necessarily provide advice that strategically and financially benefits the client, according to Philipp. For instance, they often encounter cases where entrepreneurs purchase an excessive number of solar panels for daily use. “Spending money solely because subsidies are available is not always the best option from a business perspective. We would never recommend such a course of action. For instance, consider the investment in solar panels. While it may seem wise to cover the entire roof with panels because space is available and subsidies exist, the essential question that must be answered first is whether that capacity is genuinely necessary. On days when the sun doesn’t shine enough, you’ll still face an energy deficit, requiring additional sources. Conversely, on sunny days, the panels generate so much electricity that we cannot fully utilize it within the grid. There’s room for improvement.

Philipp Keller, CEO COMCAM

At COMCAM, we approach energy trading with analytical thinking and calculated risk-taking, supported by well-founded business plans aligned with strategic goals. The energy market is structured such that prices constantly fluctuate. Being independent and capable of sourcing energy from anywhere, we provide the best advice to our clients. This sets us apart from providers with conflicting interests. We understand the complete, real market and combine the offerings of multiple suppliers.

COMCAM’s specialists genuinely support businesses in assessing energy needs, congestion management, and energy supply sustainability.

We manage energy portfolios for businesses, predicting energy consumption and potential returns for the coming years while assessing risks.”

In the traditional market, businesses have two types of energy contracts to choose from: fixed or flexible. However, due to developments in recent years, the “fixed” option no longer works. Predicting or calculating prices for the next three years accurately is challenging. Consequently, the “fully flexible” approach is often touted as the market’s solution, but it introduces significant risks for companies with continuous production processes.

“A future-proof energy strategy requires clear insight. We assist entrepreneurs through our unique Energy Portfolio Management.”

This is where COMCAM offers the “Best of Both Worlds” to its clients. Unlike energy suppliers, producers, or intermediaries seeking to close contracts, COMCAM acts as an independent knowledge partner. They can source energy from anywhere, unlike providers with conflicting interests. Entrepreneurs typically lack the time and often the expertise to optimize opportunities in a market where prices constantly fluctuate. Timing is crucial.

“Due to global unrest and gas policies in the Netherlands, we heavily rely on the global energy market. And that brings significant risks!”

COMCAM’s Energy Portfolio Management provides insights and access to all markets, from long-term markets where prices can be locked in to EPEX, intraday, and imbalance markets. This approach ensures satisfied customers and contented suppliers, resulting in well-managed clients with professionally assessed usage profiles. Clients gain control over energy costs, including built-in flexibility to capitalize on market opportunities.

This interview was published in EW Innovation in the Netherlands March 29^th 2024 (in Dutch).