The NFU has announced today that it has bought leading agriculture energy consultancy FEC Energy.
Currently, FEC Energy provides help to farmers to buy and sell energy, generate heat and electricity, use energy more efficiently and reduce the compliance burden of energy regulation.
“I am very pleased that we have been able to complete this acquisition and combine the unique strengths of our two businesses,” says NFU director general Terry Jones. “FEC Energy will unite its wealth of engineering and energy market expertise with the NFU’s powerful membership, regional and local network and marketing know-how.
“Culturally the two organisations are a great fit; both value knowledge and expertise, understand the needs of farming businesses and are committed to the continued success of the sector.
“The acquisition is an important part of the NFU’s new vision and strategy to deliver for members. In addition to receiving an improved energy service the move will broaden and deepen the capabilities of the NFU enabling it to provide new services and products for farmers and growers.”
Jones adds how the purchase will also create a new substantial income stream which can be used to support the organisation’s core work and will benefit NFU membership as a whole.
“This is a great opportunity for both the NFU and FEC and we are delighted to be joining the NFU team,” adds FEC Energy managing director, Chris Plackett.
Being part of the NFU will massively increase our commercial exposure with members and utilising the organisation’s significant buying power will enable us to strike even better deals with suppliers as well as set up new and mutually beneficial trading relationships between the energy and agricultural sectors.”
FEC Energy works with farming and commercial businesses, government departments, industry organisations, utility companies and manufacturers, as well as provides advice and practical support to businesses with a special focus on agriculture and horticulture.
The NFU has worked with FEC Energy for almost 20 years and currently more than 2,000 sites benefit from low price energy deals through the NFU’s Energy Service contract.
FEC Energy will keep its name and remain operating as a separate company for the foreseeable future. Directors Chris Plackett and Tim Pratt will stay with the business, while Andrew Kneeshaw is to retire and will provide consultancy services to FEC Energy.
No other changes to staff or employment at FEC Energy are planned.
