Meet the person behind the power

Who are you and what do you do at Share Energy?

I’m Grace Cooper and I work in marketing and operations at Share Energy.

Let’s talk energy – real talk

What shocked you most about the energy market in Northern Ireland when you joined Share?

Before joining Share Energy, I didn’t consider switching energy suppliers. I assumed pricing was consistent regardless of the supplier I chose, and I was under the impression that switching was difficult. I was blissfully unaware that I was wasting my money paying a higher tariff, so I opted to remain with the supplier that was in my home when I moved into it. When I began working for Share Energy, I was shocked to learn I could be saving a pretty significant amount of money by making savvy and well-informed decisions about my supplier.

What would you say to someone who thinks switching energy suppliers is too much hassle?

Switching energy suppliers is surprisingly easy. I was hesitant to switch to Share Energy when I started working here because I thought the process would be convoluted. I was unfamiliar with terms like MPRN and KPN, I didn’t know how to read my meter, and I assumed I’d have to contact my old supplier to let them know I was leaving. It seemed like a lot of life admin! I quickly learned I simply had to complete an online form. The information required was basic, like my name, address, and current supplier. Details I didn’t know, like my MPRN and average energy usage, were explained on the sign-up form and were easily found on bills from my old supplier. Once I completed the form, the hard work was done, and the Share team contacted me around 18 days later to finalise the switch. In reality, it was no hassle at all. To make things even better, a colleague and I both received £15 since he referred me!

Myths, Misconceptions & Mic-Drop Moments

What’s a piece of energy-saving advice that’s actually useful (and not just turning off the lights)?

I think most people are aware of the usual tips and tricks: turn off the lights, switch to energy-saving lightbulbs, and don’t fill the kettle if you won’t use it. Likely one of the most boring but useful tips is to avoid leaving devices on standby. I am guilty of leaving the TV on standby every night and not unplugging the toaster after breakfast, but apparently, it’s a great way to reduce your consumption. It’s advice I need to start following myself!

Are people being overcharged — or just under-informed?

Generally, people in Northern Ireland are definitely being overcharged. Some electricity suppliers in Northern Ireland have particularly high prices. These suppliers lure their customers in with gimmicks, cheaper contracts with price surges at the end of the term, and ‘offers’ that cost the consumer money in the long run. However, customers tend to fall victim to these gimmicks because they aren’t arming themselves with the facts they need to make informed choices. I always refer potential customers to the Consumer Council’s energy price comparison tool. This fantastic online resource offers consumers an impartial view of the energy tariffs available in Northern Ireland. When consumers use these resources, they can find a fair deal and save themselves lots of money.

The Share Way

What makes Share Energy different in your opinion — beyond the low rates?

Share Energy is an energy supplier owned and operated by local people who are passionate about their community. I’m part of a small team that genuinely wants to make a difference and help people manage their homes and budgets. While the low rates are central to our ethos, we are so much more than NI’s cheapest energy supplier. Our investment in local community groups, sports teams, and food banks speaks to our desire to help people beyond their electricity bills. Furthermore, we are passionate about providing a greener future for the next generation and beyond. Over 50% of our electricity mix comes from renewable energy sources, this will only increase over time. We intend to grow in a sustainable and structured way to ensure our customer remains the focus, and as always, when we make a profit, we’ll share it with the customer. Not many energy suppliers can say that!

What’s a project or moment at Share that really made you proud?

I was extremely proud to work for Share Energy when we won the Belfast Telegraph Award for the Emerging Business of the Year in May this year. It's fantastic to be part of such a young and successful company. I’m excited for what’s ahead!

A Bit About You

Tea or coffee?

I’m a tea drinker at heart, but I can’t resist a good cup of coffee and pastry on a Saturday morning.