Power Different has been at the forefront of renewable energy in the East of England since 2016. From solar panels to battery storage and bespoke electrical installations, they’ve grown steadily alongside the rising demand for sustainable energy solutions. However, their business evolved and so did the need for deeper financial insight. Like many companies, they initially focused on the essentials such as year-end filings and compliance.
While always keeping an eye on the numbers, partnering with Wilby Jones has given a clearer, more strategic financial perspective, ensuring Power Different have a firm grasp on their finances. After our last meeting we had the chance to talk about the support we’ve provided so far.
Were you using another accountant before us?
We were using another accountant, someone I’d known for many years. Like many business owners, you often stay with who you know. In fact, when we decided to move in a different direction, I was initially concerned about the conversation.
What impressed me when I met Ben and Tom at Wilby Jones, was their energy and hunger for what they do. It felt relatable because that’s how we operate as a team. It was reassuring to know that our values aligned and someone was going to take charge to guide us through the process.
I had always envisioned having a Financial Director (FD) at some stage, and Ben highlighted that this was a great stepping stone. By implementing the right infrastructure, reporting and procedures, we’re now getting many of the benefits of having an FD, without the full cost. It made a lot of sense.
What caused you to switch to us?
To be honest, I was frustrated with myself because I first spoke to Ben a whole year before making the switch. At the time, I told myself, ‘No, I’ll just keep doing what I’m doing. I don’t have time.’ All the usual business owner excuses as we’re always juggling so many things and don’t always have the time or resources to focus on every aspect of the business.
But after speaking with Ben and looking at where Power Different is headed, it became clear that having more detailed financial insight and a structured approach to reporting was something we really needed. It’s already proving to be valuable, and I can see it playing a big role in the coming years. I’m really pleased with how things are going.
Would you say that Wilby Jones contributes towards your plans and vision for Power different?
Absolutely, yes. I’d be curious to hear Ben and Tom’s thoughts on this, but I hope they can see that we have a clear direction and a solid understanding of our numbers. It’s great to have Wilby Jones alongside us to ensure we’re on the right track, providing that extra level of insight and validation. Having another set of eyes on everything is invaluable.
Ben originally explained that if we had a full-time FD, this is exactly the kind of role they’d play. And he’s really followed through on that promise, not just acting as our accountants, but becoming an integral part of our business. Both he and Tom have embedded themselves in what we’re doing, and I’m really pleased with how it’s going.
What changes have you experienced since partnering with us?
Even though it’s only early stages, one of the biggest benefits so far has been the validation of our financial planning. We’ve agreed to focus on specific areas of the business to analyse potential cost savings, streamline operations, and improve efficiencies. We now have more time to focus on other business objectives.
A highly valuable feature has been the ability to run financial simulations and forecast how different strategies could impact the business. Wilby Jones’ scenario based accounting is an hugely helpful method. For example, Tom has offered to analyse our vehicle fleet costs, which is a significant expense for us, given the number of engineers and operatives we have on the road. Up until now, we’ve purchased all our vehicles using asset finance, but as the fleet grows and maintenance costs rise, there will come a point where we need to reassess whether leasing or another approach would be more cost-effective. Since Wilby Jones understands our long-term financial goals, they’re in the best position to provide informed advice and help us make strategic decisions.
How would you compare Wilby Jones to other accountants you’ve worked with?
I’ve worked with a few accountants over the years across different businesses, but I’d say Wilby Jones has provided the most positive and engaged experience I’ve had. What I mean but that is that their proactive and supportive approach really stand outs. There’s a real sense of ‘we’re here to help,’ which isn’t always the perception people have of accountants, no disrespect intended! It can be easy for business owners to see accountants as just a compliance function rather than a real asset to the business, but that’s definitely not the impression we’ve had with Wilby Jones.
If I had to highlight the most valuable part of working with them, it would be how they’ve integrated into our business and become part of our team. The fact that their support is scalable as we grow is very reassuring. We’ve set ambitious targets, so it’s great to know that Wilby Jones have partnered with us for the journey.
Would you give any advice or tips to other businesses considering working with us?
I’d say, just do it. Honestly, I would absolutely recommend Wilby Jones to other business owners. I’m already planning to share my positive experience and make recommendations without hesitation.
When you mentioned the positivity we bring, do you have any specific examples that you can share?
One thing that really stands out is that nothing ever seems like a problem. If I need something, even if it’s a random request or an urgent question, it’s never an issue. And if an issue does arise, it’s handle efficiently. I try not to be the high-maintenance client, but I really appreciate the way they just make things happen. It also feels like they truly understand what we’re trying to achieve, which is important to us.
What I also appreciate is their honesty. They’ve been upfront about not necessarily knowing all the specific details of our industry right away, and that’s completely fair. As a result, they’ve taken the time to ask the right questions and understand what’s normal or expected in our market, which shows they’re committed to getting the full picture. We’re a commercial business, so our metrics and numbers can differ quite a bit from a residential-based business doing similar work. That level of attention to detail and curiosity has been really valuable.
Since partnering, have there been any notable changes in your position?
Yes, absolutely. Partnering with Wilby Jones has given us more confidence in our businesses. It’s reinforced what we already knew, but also provided reassurance that, whatever challenges we face this year, we’re making decisions based on relevant, accurate metrics. The way we’re approaching management meetings and planning has given us greater clarity. In short, it’s boosted our confidence, and that’s been incredibly valuable.
