Invew Quarterly Brief, Issue 3

Invew Quarterly Brief is a monthly magazine delivering the latest news, expert analysis, and strategic guidance on the energy and telecoms sectors. We focus on the issues that matter most to UK businesses, from rising energy costs and market trends to digital transformation in telecoms, including the Full Fibre rollout and PSTN switch-off.

ISSUE № 3, Quarter 3, 2025

Prices Stable but Cold Weather is on the Horizon Winter Is Coming: Quarterly Brief Your Business’s Guide To Understanding The Energy And Telecom Markets. INVEW

“We’ve seen it before: steady summer pricing followed by sharp winter surges.” Discover: Green Ambitions & Tech Innovations: UK Energy Ambitions in the Coming Years

Plus: PSTN Switch-Off: Why UK Businesses Must Act Before 2027

Contents

ENERGY

State of the Energy Market

Our Advice

Green Ambitions & Tech Innovations: UK Energy Ambitions In the Coming Years Employee Spotlight: Donna Simcock

TELECOMS

State of the Industry

PSTN Switch-Off: Why UK Businesses Must Act Before 2027 How To Choose The Right Telecoms Provider For Your Business

IN THE NEWS

Energy News 23

Telecom News

Welcome to the third edition of the Invew Quarterly Brief, your snapshot of the latest developments in UK energy, telecoms, and connectivity. Our goal is simple: to give business leaders the insights they need to make confident, informed decisions in markets that never stand still. After all, knowledge is power. In this issue, we explore how advances in technology and AI are set to shape energy prices in the years ahead, and provide an important update on the revised deadline for the PSTN switch-off. You’ll also find our take on the current state of the market— straightforward, practical, and to the point. We’re also delighted to introduce our colleague Donna Simcock. Many of you may already know Donna, and here you’ll get a chance to learn more about her experience and how she can support you with your energy needs. Thank you, as always, for reading and for being part of the Invew community.

IN THIS ISSUE, WE EXPLORE HOW ADVANCES IN TECHNOLGY AND AI ARE SET TO SHAPE ENERGY PRICES IN THE YEARS AHEAD.

Spencer Nute Managing Director

STATE OF THE ENERGY MARKET: PRICES STABLE BUT WINTER IS COMING The UK energy market has settled through summer 2025, with gas and electricity prices down significantly from their winter peaks. But this period of calm may be short-lived. With colder months ahead and wind output already underperforming, we could see winter volatility return, just like it did last year. This report explores what’s kept prices steady, what could push them higher again, and why now may be the last good window to act.

Market Movements Over 2025

The Story of 2025's Energy Market So Far

The graph above shows the trade prices of gas and electricity for each month from January to early September 2025. While trade prices differ from the pence per kilowatt hour rates on business invoices, they are a key indicator of future contract pricing. After peaking in February, with gas averaging 142 pence per therm and electricity at £116 per megawatt hour, prices fell steadily through spring. By May, gas had dropped to 89p/therm, and electricity to £79/MWh, a fall of more than 25 percent. Throughout the summer, prices held relatively steady. Gas traded between 75 and 85 pence per therm, and electricity hovered just below £82/MWh. Strong storage levels and low seasonal demand supported this stability, but with wind output falling and colder months ahead, the market may not stay quiet for long.

Holding Steady: But Winter’s Coming This year’s summer price stability has been a welcome change, but it’s not unusual. We’ve seen this pattern before: a relatively calm market through spring and summer, followed by sharp increases in the run-up to winter. While the current figures may look reassuring, they don’t always tell the full story. Behind the scenes, familiar seasonal pressures are already starting to build. Gas demand rises as temperatures fall. Wind and solar output drop off just as we need more supply. Storage sites begin to draw down. And global buyers, particularly in Asia, ramp up LNG imports, competing with Europe for the same gas. Even in years with strong supply fundamentals, prices have often surged late in Q4. The market doesn’t need a crisis to move; it only needs a few key variables to shift at once. That’s why we’re watching the weeks ahead closely. So, what drives this seasonal squeeze? Here are four reasons prices tend to rise as winter rolls in:

Cold Weather Means Higher Gas Use As the temperature drops, demand for heating surges across the UK and Europe. Gas usage rises sharply, and with it, the cost of wholesale supply. Even a few weeks of sub-zero temperatures can strain reserves and cause sudden price spikes

Renewables Fall Away Winter usually brings darker days, lighter winds, and less solar output. With renewables contributing less to the grid, we rely more heavily on gas-fired generation, driving up both gas and electricity prices. This shift back to fossil fuels is one of the clearest triggers for seasonal volatility.

Holding Steady: But Winter’s Coming

Storage Begins To Draw Down: While storage levels are high now, they’re built to be used in winter. Once sites start emptying, the market reacts fast. Faster-than-expected drawdowns can quickly undermine market confidence and inflate forward pricing.

Global LNG Competition Heats Up Europe isn’t the only one preparing for winter, Asia also ramps up LNG imports in Q4. As international buyers compete for the same gas, prices climb across the board — and the UK feels the impact. Tighter shipping capacity and longer lead times only add to the pressure.

Learn the Lessons of Last Winter and Stay One Step Ahead:

The recent stability in prices hasn’t happened by accident. Strong storage levels, lower summer demand, steady solar output, and fewer nuclear outages have all played a role. Together, they’ve kept the market calm, but as we head into the colder months, those conditions are already starting to shift. It doesn’t take much for the balance to tip. A sudden drop in wind, colder-than- expected weather, or a dip in storage confidence can quickly trigger market movement. These changes don’t always give much warning, and once sentiment shifts, prices often move fast. Even Ofgem has highlighted the benefits of securing energy at the right time, noting that fixing can “provide certainty over coming payments.” While aimed at households, the message is just as relevant for businesses. Now, while the market is stable, could be the best opportunity to act before winter pressures start to bite.

OUR ADVICE

Our Forecast:

The good news is that prices have remained stable through summer, and short-term fundamentals still look relatively strong. Storage levels across the UK and Europe are healthy, and recent demand has remained below seasonal averages. This has helped keep gas and electricity prices well below the highs seen earlier this year. However, this window may be closing. As we move into autumn, colder temperatures, falling renewable output, and increased competition for winter gas supply are expected to put upward pressure on prices. We’ve already seen signs of this in previous years, and the same market forces are starting to emerge now. While we’re not forecasting a return to the extreme volatility of recent winters, a gradual rise in wholesale prices is likely over the coming months. Businesses should consider acting now to secure favourable contract terms before suppliers begin to factor in winter risk.

What to Do If You Are in Your Renewal Window:

Take Advantage of Summer Stability: This is typically the last stable period before winter pressures take hold. Locking in now could help you avoid rising costs as suppliers begin to price in colder weather and increased demand. Consider Longer Term Contracts for Stability: While market movements are hard to predict, securing a two- or three-year deal at today’s lower rates can offer valuable protection. Even if a short-term offer looks slightly cheaper, longer contracts provide peace of mind and cost certainty during volatile periods. Stay Informed and Flexible: If your renewal window isn’t open just yet, keep an eye on the market. Track wholesale trends, storage updates, and winter forecasts. Being prepared to act quickly can make all the difference if prices start to climb.

Our Advice: Speak to an Expert:

The UK energy market is currently enjoying a period of welcome stability after several unpredictable years. Wholesale gas and electricity prices remain well below their winter peaks, but with colder months approaching, this may not last for long. Seasonal pressures are already beginning to build, and history suggests that prices tend to rise as winter draws closer. Now is the time to review your energy contracts and take advantage of the stability while it lasts. Note: Managing business energy contracts can be complex, especially in a shifting market. If you're unsure about your renewal options, our team is here to help make the process clear, simple, and focused on what’s best for your business. If you are unsure about your options, we are here to help. Our team can assess your energy needs, review the latest offers, and guide you towards the most suitable decision for your business. Final Thoughts:

13 11

Green Ambitions and Tech Innovations: UK Energy Prices iN the Coming Years As the UK moves toward a more sustainable energy future, the next decade promises significant changes in both demand and supply dynamics. With ambitious green targets and technological innovations on the horizon, how will energy prices be affected? This blog will explore the forces shaping the UK's energy landscape, including the challenges posed by green ambitions, rising compute demand due to AI and robotics, and the technological advancements that could help mitigate these challenges. By examining both the negative impacts and the potential solutions offered by AI and technology, we’ll get a clearer picture of what the future of energy prices might look like in the coming years. Factors That Could Negatively Impact Energy Prices

Green Targets and Their Impact on Prices The UK’s ambitious green energy targets, including the 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel cars and the broader goal of achieving net-zero by 2050, will likely increase electricity demand significantly. While these goals are essential for long-term sustainability, the shift from fossil fuels to electric- based solutions could put pressure on the grid, especially during peak periods. Renewable energy, though growing, can be intermittent (e.g., wind and solar), which could lead to price volatility and higher costs, especially in the short term as infrastructure catches up with demand. Increased Compute Demand from Al and Robotics

offer powerful tools to help mitigate the pressure. AI can optimise energy production, improve grid management, and increase the efficiency of both renewable and non- renewable energy sources. Smart grids, for example, powered by AI, will help manage the flow of electricity more efficiently, balancing supply and demand in real-time. Advanced algorithms will optimise renewable energy generation and storage, reduce waste and minimise the need for costly backup power sources. Additionally, breakthroughs in energy storage technology (such as better batteries) and demand-side management (where consumers adjust energy use based on price signals) will further alleviate pressure on the grid.

The growing use of AI, automation, and robotics will drive up the demand for electricity. The data centres needed to support AI processing, as well as the energy required to power automated systems, will add significant strain on the grid. In particular, the rise of machine learning models and robotics in industries like healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics will exacerbate the need for energy, increasing costs as more computational power is required. Factors That Could Negatively Impact Energy Prices AI and Technology: Efficiency and Energy Solutions While increased energy demand is inevitable, AI and technology also

Conclusion: The Inevitable Rise of Demand And Technological Solutions

Decentralised Energy and Localised Solutions With technological advancements, we’re also likely to see a shift towards communities may generate, store, and use their own energy through solar panels, wind turbines, and microgrids. This reduces reliance on the centralized grid and mitigates price volatility. more decentralized energy production. Households and The development of vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology, where electric cars can feed energy back into the grid, will also play a role in stabilizing supply and demand, helping reduce the need for expensive peak-time energy.

It’s clear that energy demand will inevitably increase as the UK pushes toward its green targets and as technology continues to advance. However, as much as our small human brains can’t quite imagine the full extent of the solutions AI will provide (let’s just say it’s probably way beyond what we’re currently envisioning!), technology will certainly help us adapt to these challenges and find solutions we can't even yet conceive. In the short to medium term, we should expect volatility in energy prices as we face the growing pains of this transition. However, the long- term outlook is much more optimistic. As energy production becomes cheaper, grids become more decentralized, and AI continues to optimize efficiencies, we can expect prices to decrease over time. While the journey will be complex, the future of energy holds promise— not just in meeting our climate goals, but in creating a more sustainable, affordable, and technologically advanced energy landscape. Note: Unsure what these changes mean for you? Contact us for clear advice and support. We can help you check your meter or alarm setup and guide you through what to do next.

DONNA SIMCOCK EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT:

SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER 18 YEARS AT INVEW

This month we celebrate an incredible milestone: Donna Simcock’s 18-year anniversary at Invew. When Donna first joined us as a sales assistant, she was just beginning to learn her craft. Since then, her journey has been remarkable. Alongside her career, she has become a mother for the second time, learnt to drive, bought her first home and proudly become a shareholder of Invew. Professionally, Donna has grown with the company. Today she is both our Office Manager and Head of Sales, playing a central role in Invew’s growth and success. Her knowledge and experience are invaluable to both the team and our customers. A Leader Who Inspires As a leader, Donna is known for her calm confidence and

supportive approach. She has guided many of our staff as they’ve learnt the ropes, always ready with advice and encouragement. Her leadership style has built a culture of trust and collaboration across the sales team, setting the high standards that Invew is known for. As Invew has grown, Donna has been at the heart of our journey, helping guide both colleagues and customers through a shifting and often turbulent energy market. Her steady presence and commitment to excellence have made her an anchor in times of change, ensuring the business remains focused and resilient. Putting Customers First: Donna also excels at building genuine relationships with customers. She takes the time to understand their needs, resolve

their challenges and deliver solutions that fit. Many businesses have stayed with Invew for years thanks to the loyalty and trust Donna inspires. Whether it’s resolving a complex supplier issue, arranging a meter upgrade or navigating a contract renewal, Donna is known for her persistence and commitment to getting the right outcome. Her expertise in the energy market, her ability to negotiate with suppliers, and her skill in problem-solving make her a go-to person for both customers and colleagues. Donna, thank you for everything you’ve contributed over the past 18 years and here’s to many more years of success together! Enough about what we have to say, instead hear what Donna’s Customers say about her:

The service that Caladero Scotland have received from Donna has been fantastic. I have recently had to take on the responsibility of utility contracts. Everything was explained to me in a manner that I was able to understand and had confidence in what I was being advised. Was available to answer any questions and queries that arose.

If you need honest, trustworthy advice that will save you money then look no further than Donna at Invew. She has helped us in the past with a lot of our properties and I am going to see if I can transfer some of our accounts to her also. I'm fed up with the other utility providers pestering me so I can now rely on someone to help me out.

Sharon Walker Littleport Town Lands Cha r ity

June Caladero Scotland

TELECOMS AND CONNECTIVITY

What’s Happened So Far:

STATE OF THE INDUSTRY

The UK telecoms sector continues to evolve at pace in 2025, and as we approach the final quarter of the year, the pressure is building for businesses to keep up. Full fibre broadband coverage still sits at 74% of UK premises, with adoption stuck at 38%, unchanged since the spring. This persistent gap between availability and uptake is becoming harder to ignore. Businesses that delay switching continue to miss out on the performance and reliability gains that modern infrastructure offers: from smoother operations to more resilient hybrid working setups. At the same time, more business owners are recognising that standard broadband is no longer enough. With growing reliance on cloud platforms, video calls, and real-time collaboration, many are now turning to leased lines for guaranteed speeds and uninterrupted performance. These dedicated connections eliminate the frustrations of shared bandwidth and provide the stability needed to keep systems running and teams connected. Meanwhile, the PSTN switch-off is now just over a year away, with analogue phone lines set to be retired by January 2027. As telecoms, IT and AI continue to converge, the way businesses think about connectivity is changing. From the tools used in daily operations to the infrastructure behind them, understanding how these systems work together is becoming essential to staying competitive and making confident, future-ready decisions.

74%

OF UK PREMISES NOW HAVE ACCESS TO FULL FIBRE BROADBAND

38%

ONLY 38% OF PREMISES HAVE SUBSCRIBED TO FULL-FIBRE SERVICES

PSTN Switch-Off: Why UK Businesses Must Act Before 2027

areas can no longer order or renew copper-based services such as traditional landlines or ADSL broadband. Instead, only fibre or VoIP-based services are available. By mid-2025, more than 1,500 exchange areas and millions of business premises are already affected. This makes the PSTN switch-off more of a current issue than a future one.

The UK’s PSTN and ISDN networks will be fully retired on 31 January 2027. This deadline marks the end of copper-based services that have supported business communication for over a century. Originally scheduled for December 2025, the switchover was delayed to give more time for businesses to prepare, but that does not mean organisations can afford to wait. The process is already underway, with Openreach rolling out its 'Stop Sell' programme in hundreds of areas. Businesses that delay risk disruption and unnecessary costs. What’s Happening: Openreach is phasing out copper services step by step. Under the Stop Sell policy, companies in affected

What This Means For Businesses

The change impacts far more than just phone calls. Many everyday systems still rely on PSTN connections, including: - Desk phones and legacy PBX systems

- Alarm and security systems - Lift emergency lines - Payment terminals (EPOS) - Fax machines and modems

If your business continues to rely on these services without upgrading, you could face sudden loss of functionality. That could mean interrupted customer service, non- functioning payment systems, or even compromised safety equipment. Why It’s an Opportunity While the change may sound daunting, the switch-off presents a real opportunity to modernise communication infrastructure. VoIP and cloud-based telecoms offer businesses lower call costs, the flexibility to use numbers across multiple devices, and advanced features such as video integration, voicemail-to-email, and call analytics. For many SMEs, upgrading now also means improved collaboration for hybrid working and the ability to scale quickly without heavy upfront

investment. Rather than seeing the switch-off as a disruption, businesses can view it as a chance to future-proof operations. Action Plan For Businesses To prepare for the PSTN switch-off, businesses should follow a clear plan: 1. Audit systems: Identify every device or service still using PSTN. 2. Check your area: Use Openreach’s postcode tool to see if Stop Sell applies. 3. Choose a solution: VoIP, SIP trunking, or UCaaS may suit different needs.

Conclusion: The PSTN switch-off is not a distant milestone—it is an active process already shaping UK telecoms. With millions of businesses impacted by Stop Sell restrictions, waiting until 2027 is risky. By acting now, UK businesses can avoid service disruption, reduce telecom costs, and benefit from modern features that improve flexibility and productivity. Far from being a headache, the switch-off is a chance to upgrade and strengthen your organisation’s communications for the future.

4. Plan the migration: Budget for hardware upgrades, such as IP phones or headsets, and allocate time for staff training. 5. Port numbers and test: Run trials before making a full cutover. 6. Train staff and communicate: Ensure your team understands the new systems and inform customers if processes change. Handled early, the transition can be smooth and even cost-saving.

How To Choose The Right Telecoms Provider For Your Business

A fast connection means nothing if it’s not reliable. Look for providers with strong service-level agreements (SLAs), uptime guarantees and clear processes for Service and Reliability Come First Reliable telecoms are no longer a “nice to have”, they’re the backbone of modern business. Whether you’re running cloud systems, video calls or card payments, the wrong provider can hold you back with downtime, poor service, or hidden costs. Choosing the right partner is about more than price. It’s about finding a provider who understands your business, delivers consistently, and grows with you.

resolving issues. Ask about redundancy and back-up options too, particularly if your business depends on always-on systems like EPOS or cloud software.

Pricing Transparency Matters

Cheap deals can be tempting, but low upfront prices often mask hidden charges, mid-contract increases, or expensive add-ons. Make sure you understand the total cost over the length of the contract, including installation fees, call rates, and any penalties for early exit. A good provider will be upfront about this. Scalability and Flexibility Your telecoms should grow with your business. Can the provider upgrade

your service quickly if you expand, open new sites or shift to hybrid working? Flexible contracts, VoIP solutions, and scalable bandwidth are all signs that the provider is future- proof. Support When You Need It When something goes wrong, fast, knowledgeable support is vital. Check if support is UK-based, available 24/7, and easy to reach. Read reviews to see how existing customers rate their experience. A provider that prioritises customer care can save you days of disruption. Technology And Innovation The telecoms market is changing fast, with the PSTN switch-off in 2027 and full fibre rollout gathering pace. Choose a provider that keeps ahead of the curve, offers fibre and leased lines where available, and can guide you through transitions like moving to VoIP. Security and Compliance Data security and compliance can’t be overlooked. Providers should have robust safeguards for voice and data services, along with clear GDPR processes. If you handle sensitive data, make sure your provider meets the necessary industry standards. Final Thoughts: The right telecoms provider isn’t just a supplier, they’re a partner in keeping your business connected, productive and secure. By looking beyond the headline price and

The right telecoms provider isn’t just a supplier, they’re a partner in keeping your business connected, productive and secure. By looking beyond the headline price and asking the right questions, you can avoid costly mistakes and set your business up for the future. At Invew, we help businesses cut through the noise to find telecoms solutions that are reliable, scalable and tailored to their needs. If you’re reviewing your current setup or planning a change, our team is here to guide you through the options.

Energy News

Tesla Eyes UK Energy Market

Tesla has applied for a licence from Ofgem to supply electricity in Britain, marking a potential new chapter for the company best known for its electric cars. If approved, Tesla could offer households and businesses power alongside its existing solar and battery products. The move comes as the UK energy market shifts towards cleaner, more flexible supply. By combining generation, storage and electric vehicle charging, Tesla aims to create a joined-up system that could lower costs and cut carbon.

Our Thoughts: Tesla’s entry could shake up the market, but it remains to be seen how quickly they can scale in the UK. For businesses, it’s another sign that technology-led suppliers are set to play a bigger role in driving down costs and carbon. If they succeed in linking energy supply with storage and EV charging, it could open new opportunities for firms looking to cut bills and meet sustainability goals. Competition is healthy, and Tesla’s move could help push other suppliers to innovate faster.

Offshore Wind Boosted by Government Reforms The UK government has announced changes to its offshore wind subsidy scheme in a bid to attract more investment. Contracts for Difference will now run for 20 years instead of 15, while maximum bid prices have also been raised. These reforms follow concerns that rising costs were slowing new projects and putting climate targets at risk. Alongside the changes, a £544 million Clean Industry Bonus will support the supply chain. Ministers hope the measures will unlock fresh growth and keep the UK at the forefront of global offshore wind. Our Thoughts:

Extending contract terms and raising support should help get stalled projects moving again. This is positive news for long-term energy stability and could ease pressure on business bills as more renewables come online. Offshore wind is central to the UK’s net zero strategy, so making the sector investable again is vital. Businesses can expect the benefits to flow through gradually, but stability in the supply mix helps keep costs more predictable

Telecoms News

The UK government is exploring new funding packages to expand satellite broadband in rural communities. Ministers say the move is aimed at closing the digital divide in areas where fibre rollout remains slow or uneconomic. Satellite technology can provide faster connections without the need for extensive cabling, offering a quicker route to improved coverage. While not a replacement for full fibre, officials see it as a vital tool to ensure all households and businesses have access to reliable internet. Government Looks to Satellite Broadband for Rural Areas

Our Thoughts: Satellite broadband won’t replace fibre, but it can be a lifeline for rural firms left behind by slow rollouts. It’s a reminder for businesses in remote areas to keep an eye on new connectivity options as they become available. Speed and reliability may not match fibre, but for critical operations it could bridge the gap until faster lines arrive. Any investment in digital inclusion is good news, ensuring businesses of all sizes can compete on a level playing field.

Openreach Warns of Rollout Risks Amid Competition Rules BT’s Openreach has warned that its goal to connect 30 million UK homes with full-fibre broadband by 2030 may be at risk unless Ofcom eases restrictions limiting its dominance. The regulator, keen to foster competition, plans to uphold these price controls and access limitations through at least 2031. Openreach argues this curbs its investment ability, particularly in areas with strong competitors, while Ofcom counters that the protections have helped drive fibre rollout forward. Our Thoughts:

The debate between investment and competition is a fine balance. For businesses, the key takeaway is that full fibre rollout remains on track for now, but policy decisions could affect how quickly coverage expands in different regions. This means some areas may still face patchy progress, especially where rival networks are active. Firms should keep pressure on providers to ensure they’re not left behind as the UK pushes towards 100% gigabit coverage.

Thank You For Reading We would love to learn what you think we should include in the next edition!

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