Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

We are the Simple Energy Project, an organisation committed to empowering individuals by simplifying the complexities of the energy industry. Our mission is to provide accessible, clear, and practical support, particularly to lower-income households and those facing challenges with their energy suppliers.

At the Simple Energy Project, we specialise in offering guidance and assistance to those navigating the intricacies of energy consumption, billing, and supplier relations. Our services are designed to demystify energy-related information, helping people make informed decisions about their energy usage, understand their rights, and manage their energy costs more effectively. We are passionate about promoting energy literacy and supporting vulnerable communities in the energy landscape.

2. Data Collection

At the Simple Energy Project, we are committed to respecting the privacy of all our users. We only collect personal information from individuals who sign up for membership. For general visitors to our website, we limit data collection to non-personal information through cookies, which users have the option to accept.

Membership Data Collection

Upon signing up for membership, we collect the following personal data: 

• Name: We collect your full name to personalise your membership experience and to maintain accurate records of our members.

• Contact Information: This includes your email address and, if necessary, your phone number. This information is essential for effective communication regarding support, updates, and information about our services.

• Membership Status: We keep track of your membership status to ensure you have access to all relevant services and support that we offer.

Collection Methods

• Membership Forms: Personal data for members is collected through membership forms, either online or in paper format, filled out upon signing up for our services.

• Cookies on the Website: For website visitors, we use cookies to collect non-personal information. These cookies help us understand how our site is used and enable us to enhance user experience. Acceptance of cookies is optional and under the control of the website visitor.

3. Use of Data

The personal data collected from our members is used with a focus on delivering and enhancing our services, while also fulfilling various organisational responsibilities:

• Service Provision and Personalisation: Personal information like names and contact details enables us to personalise our support services, ensuring that each member receives relevant and effective assistance tailored to their specific needs.

• Contract Fulfillment: For members who engage in any contractual agreements with us, such as participation in special programs or initiatives, their data is used to fulfill our contractual obligations. This includes providing the agreed services and communicating effectively regarding these engagements. 

• Legal Obligations: We may use the collected data to comply with legal requirements. This includes any regulatory or statutory obligations that necessitate the processing of personal data. 

• Legitimate Interests: The Simple Energy Project uses member data for legitimate interests, such as direct communication regarding updates, new services, or changes in policy. This is done with the intention of improving member experience and offering relevant opportunities. 

• Anonymised Reporting: We may anonymise personal data for the purpose of reporting to our partners. This is particularly relevant in demonstrating the impact and reach of our services. Anonymised data ensures member privacy is maintained while providing valuable insights to our partners and stakeholders.

4. Data Sharing and Disclosure

The Simple Energy Project may share personal data with third-party service providers under certain circumstances. These providers offer various services such as data analysis, email delivery, hosting services, customer service, and marketing assistance. 

Categories of Third Parties

• Data Analytics Providers

• Email Communication Managers

• Hosting and Cloud-Based Services

Circumstances of Data Sharing

• Only when necessary to provide services requested by our members

• When required by law or to respond to legal processes

• To protect the rights, property, or safety of the Simple Energy Project, our members, or others

5. Data Retention

• Retention Period: Personal data will be retained as long as necessary to provide our services, comply with legal obligations, resolve disputes, and enforce our agreements.

• Criteria for Determination: The duration of membership, the nature of the data, and any legal requirements will inform the retention period.

6. Your Rights

Under the General Data Protection Regulation, individuals have certain rights regarding their personal data:

• Access: The right to be informed of and request access to the personal data we process

• Correction: The right to request that we amend or update personal data where it is inaccurate or incomplete

• Deletion: The right to request the deletion of personal data

• Transfer: The right to transfer data to another service provider

• Withdraw Consent: The right to withdraw consent at any time

7. Data Security

We implement robust security measures to protect personal data against unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction. This includes 2 step authentication, secure storage, encryption, and access controls.

8. International Data Transfers

If applicable, personal data may be transferred outside the European Economic Area (EEA). We ensure such transfers are protected by appropriate safeguards, such as standard contractual clauses approved by the European Commission.

9. Children's Privacy

We do not knowingly collect or solicit information from children under the age of 16. If we learn that we have collected data from a child without parental consent, we will delete that information as quickly as possible.

10. Updates to the Privacy Policy

We reserve the right to update this privacy policy. Any changes will be communicated through our website or via email to our members. We encourage members to periodically review this policy for any updates.

11. Contact Information

For any questions or concerns regarding our privacy practices, members can contact us via email: hello@simpleenergyproject.co.uk

Effective Date: 01/01/2024