Having worked in the Utility Industry for over 20 years, Square One Managing Director Michael Harkus brings a wealth of industry knowledge to the company.
“We are now in an era where energy prices fluctuate constantly and whilst it is still important to ensure suppliers are not building excessive margins into offers, it is far more important to focus on the energy component of the costs which makes up over 60% of the end price”- Michael Harkus
As the threshold for customers entering the competitive market was lowered to include smaller users Michael took responsibility for all Commercial and Industrial customers in the Northern Electric franchise area. He also developed the strategy and systems which allowed Northern Electric to successfully trade with energy consultants and brokers which was instrumental in establishing Northern Electric as the leading player in the early stages of the evolving competitive energy supply market.
His last role with Northern Electric prior to the company being purchased by npower in October 2001 was that of Commercial Development Manager of the supply business, where he was responsible for overseeing all supply contract terms and conditions, negotiating and managing contracts between Northern Electric and their Meter Operator, Data Collector and Data Aggregator providers, overseeing Distribution Use of System Contracts with all distribution companies and was the Northern Electric nominated representative to MARASCO and Ofgem.
When Northern Electric was acquired by npower Michael was seconded to assist with the recently acquired Independent Energy portfolio and a year later took up the post as National Sales Manager of npower’s SME division.
Whilst there have been undoubted benefits from utility privatisation in terms of reduced prices, there has also been a marked deterioration in levels of service in the industry and as a result, has caused a great deal of confusion and frustration for customers.
Seeing an opportunity to utilise his wide range of industry knowledge, skills and contacts in assisting customers with all aspects related to the utility market, Michael left npower in 2004 to set up his own consultancy - Square One Enterprises.