Decision details

Cllr Andrew Johnson presented the report on an overview of the options for a white label energy offering. The Council had commissioned the Local Government Information Unit (LGIU) to advise on considerations and recommendations for an energy supply model which would generate an income for the Council enabling the Council’s ambitions for reducing fuel poverty in the local community (especially amongst those using pre-payment meters). The commissioned report was now available and it recommended Option 3 to the Council, (to enter an agreement/partnership with an energy supplier who offers their services under a ‘local’ brand name to local residents who choose to switch). Cabinet approval was requested to progress to the identification of a partner for the proposed option. 

Resolved:

1.     That the decision to progress with the formation of a strategic partnership with an energy supplier to deliver sustainable energy tariffs to assist in the alleviation of fuel poverty, whilst bringing in a small income to the City of Wolverhampton Council (CWC) be approved.

2.     That delivery of option 3 as identified in the commission report produced by the Local Government Information Unit for CWC to enter an agreement/partnership with an energy supplier who offers their services under a ‘local’ brand name to local residents who choose to switch be approved.

3.     That an allocation of £60,000 from the Energy Efficiency Reserve to support the set up and marketing of the energy supply partnership be approved.

4.     That the progress already made be noted, and that a report would be submitted to a future meeting on the appointment of the strategic partner for the delivery of the energy white label offering which would be accessible for domestic and small to medium enterprise energy users in the Combined Authority area be noted. 

5.     That the proposed name for the white label energy offering as WV Energy which is an addition to the WV brand and would be utilised in discussion with internal Communications be noted.