SME Energy Savings Programme
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
It's not just about energy audits
When I look at this tender, I see something more than just a call for energy audits or advice.
The North East Combined Authority wants a partner who can truly drive energy efficiency in the region.
That means not just ticking boxes but delivering a comprehensive service that genuinely benefits SMEs and the local economy.
The contract covers a broad area, from urban Newcastle to rural Northumberland.
You'll be managing an energy advice service, an audit service and a significant £1,000,000 grant fund.
All while supporting the local installer supply chain.
Think about the people behind the businesses
You're not just dealing with numbers and reports.
You're working with real people running SMEs and VCSEs.
People who are juggling multiple responsibilities and looking for ways to cut costs and become more sustainable.
If I were writing this tender, I'd focus on how you'll make this programme accessible and understandable for them.
Show how you'll simplify the process of applying for grants.
Make it easy for them to access advice and support.
Evidence always trumps promises
One thing I noticed in my public sector days was that everyone promises great service.
Few back it up with proof.
If you've delivered similar programmes before, spell that out.
Use case studies or testimonials.
Show evidence of past success in energy efficiency, grant management or supporting SMEs.
Bullet points might include:
- Previous projects with measurable energy savings
- Testimonials from satisfied SMEs or local authorities
- Data on how you've managed funds effectively
Managing the grant fund is key
The grant fund is a central part of this programme.
You'll need to demonstrate strong financial management skills.
The North East MSA will be looking for partners who can ensure that the grant is managed transparently and efficiently.
Outline how you'll handle applications, assessments and fund disbursement.
Show you have the systems in place to track and report on the impact of these grants.
Pay attention to what they say
The documents are clear that the North East MSA will retain oversight.
They've set up a Programme Advisory Board and will hold regular review meetings.
That means your relationship with them is crucial.
I'd want to show how my team will collaborate effectively with the MSA.
How you'll integrate their feedback and advice into your delivery model.
Build a strong local supplier directory
One part of this tender that stands out is the development of a supplier directory.
This isn't just an add-on.
It's a vital component of the programme, linking SMEs to local installers.
Think about how you'll engage with the local supply chain.
How you'll maintain an up-to-date and reliable directory.
Don't underestimate the diversity of the region
The North East is a varied place, with both urban and rural challenges.
Your response needs to reflect that.
Show you understand the different needs of businesses in Newcastle compared to those in rural areas like Northumberland.
How will you tailor your approach to meet these diverse needs?
Consistency over the term is crucial
Delivering a consistent service over the whole contract term is often the hardest part.
Especially with a programme that covers such a large area and involves multiple components.
Explain how you'll maintain standards across different locations.
Consider staff training, quality control measures and how you'll handle absences or turnover.
One thing I'd keep reminding myself
At the heart of this tender are the SMEs and VCSEs of the North East.
Real businesses with real challenges.
I'd keep asking: "How does this make their lives easier?"
Every proposal, every plan, should serve that purpose.
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Focus solely on energy audits without addressing the wider programme
- Lack evidence of past success in similar projects
- Fail to demonstrate robust financial management of the grant fund
- Overlook the importance of collaboration with the MSA
- Ignore the diversity of needs across the region
- Don't address how you'll engage and support the local supply chain
- Neglect to show how you'll maintain service consistency
- Make promises without backing them up with evidence
My Final Thoughts
The North East Combined Authority is seeking more than a service provider.
They're looking for a partner who can help drive real change in energy efficiency.
With a budget of £750,000 for managing and delivering this service, the emphasis is clearly on quality and impact rather than just cost.
Quality likely carries significant weight in the evaluation.
That's why it's crucial to focus on how your solution will deliver tangible benefits to SMEs across the region.
Thanks for reading.
I hope this guide has helped make public procurement feel a little less daunting. If it has, then it's done its job.
P.S. Got a question?
If you've got a question about anything you've read, or you're stuck on a tender, just send me an email.
Whether it's a quick question or you simply need pointing in the right direction, I'm always happy to help if I can.
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Our guides are written using publicly available procurement information, including contract notices and published tender documents where available. They are designed to help suppliers understand the buyer's likely priorities and think more strategically about their approach. They are not based on any bidder's confidential submission, bespoke bid strategy or non-public procurement information.