Is it time we had an energy sandbox to encourage innovation?
Should we be looking to collaborate with the energy industry regulators and push for an energy sandbox that will foster innovation into the industry? By Steve Findley, Compliance Quarter. It has long been the case that, in a similar way to the banking industry, there are many barriers to entry for those looking to become an energy retailer. Recently we have taken enquiries with a number of technology-focused entrants looking to disrupt the industry. This poses the question: Should the regulators be providing a regulatory "energy sandbox" to allow new-to-market entrants, or tech startups, an opportunity to test their business models and help encourage innovation in the industry? The energy regulators generally maintain good relationships with retailers and some of the collaboration and support they provide to retailers gives them…