HGGC acquires Inspired to expand UK energy services

HGGC has completed its acquisition of UK energy adviser Inspired plc, marking a strategic push into data-driven energy optimisation and ESG consulting for industrial and commercial customers. The deal, executed via newly-formed Intrepid Bidco Limited, sees Inspired removed from AIM on 30 September 2025 and preparing to operate as a private limited company.

The Manchester-area headquartered firm — founded more than two decades ago and serving over 3,500 customers across the UK — provides energy cost management, hedging advice and sustainability reporting support. Its combination of consultancy and technology tools helps clients reduce energy expenditure while navigating evolving regulatory requirements linked to emissions and disclosure.

From a market perspective, the transaction comes as UK firms face sustained energy-price volatility and a tightening compliance environment. Commercial and industrial energy users have become increasingly receptive to outsourced optimisation: recent industry analysis suggests that tailored procurement and operational efficiency programmes can cut energy bills by mid-to-high single digits annually, while supporting net-zero commitments.

In its announcement, HGGC said the investment is aligned with management’s growth agenda and will accelerate product integration and the use of analytics across Inspired’s services. The private equity group emphasised the opportunity to scale solutions for customers with large, complex estates where even small percentage savings translate into meaningful cost recovery and scope for reinvestment.

Mark Dickinson, Chief Executive of Inspired, welcomed the backing and signalled a focus on deeper service integration and enhanced data capabilities. He said the partnership will enable the company to sharpen its focus on the largest energy footprints in the UK and roll out advanced analytics to deliver measurable ROI for clients.

The broader sector outlook supports that strategy. Demand for energy advisory and ESG-compliance services is being driven by three factors: persisting energy price uncertainty, regulatory tightening around reporting and emissions, and corporate pressure to demonstrate credible decarbonisation plans. Investors and corporates are increasingly valuing advisory businesses that combine domain expertise with scalable tech platforms.

For HGGC, the acquisition expands its exposure to industrial-facing services with a sustainability angle. The firm — known for investing in scaled business services and technology-enabled platforms — can apply operational experience and capital to broaden Inspired’s product suite and accelerate geographic or sector expansion.