The Energyst’s latest Talking Power podcast explores how industrial and commercial energy users are responding to a fundamentally shifting market
The industrial and commercial (I&C) energy market is undergoing a structural transformation, with volatility, decarbonisation pressures and increasing complexity reshaping how organisations procure and manage energy.
In the latest episode of Talking Power, produced by The Energyst in partnership with EDF, industry experts examine how energy buyers are adapting—and what suppliers must do to keep pace.
Editor Tim McManan-Smith is joined by Jon Slowe, partner at LCP Delta, and Christopher Dalley, director at EDF Business & Wholesale, to explore the evolving dynamics of the market.
A key theme emerging from the discussion is the shift away from energy as a simple commodity purchase.
“It’s not just about price,” said Slowe. “It’s about security, managing uncertainty and what the price will be in the future.”
Panellists agreed that volatility is now a permanent feature of the energy landscape, driven by the transition to renewables, geopolitical factors and evolving market structures. As a result, many businesses are placing greater emphasis on price certainty and risk management over simply securing the lowest cost.
This shift is also driving a move from operational expenditure (OPEX) towards capital investment (CAPEX), with organisations increasingly exploring on-site generation, battery storage and electrification as tools to manage exposure to market fluctuations.
However, speakers stressed that there is no single solution.
“There are no silver bullets,” said Dalley. “There are lots of different opportunities to help manage volatility, but it depends on consumption patterns and what customers are willing to invest.”
The discussion also highlighted the growing importance of simplicity in an increasingly complex market. While innovation in energy services is accelerating, many customers lack the in-house expertise to manage sophisticated solutions.
As a result, suppliers are evolving from commodity providers into strategic partners—offering integrated services that combine supply, optimisation and asset management.
Looking ahead, the panel expects volatility to persist, alongside increased electrification and further pressure on energy networks. In this environment, businesses will need to adopt longer-term, more strategic approaches to energy management.
“The takeaway is clear,” said McManan-Smith. “Energy is no longer just a procurement decision—it’s a core business strategy.”
