Compare the Best Business Energy Deals
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- Save up to £1,120* per year on your energy bills
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Why compare business energy quotes with Smarter Business?
Comparing business energy deals is crucial if you want to find not only the cheapest tariff but also the best-tailored energy solution for your company*. Our team of experienced energy experts can conduct a comprehensive analysis of the energy market on your behalf and identify the best tariff depending on your specific business requirements. Not only will this help to save you valuable time, but it can provide you with the peace of mind that you’re getting the most competitive energy deal on the market.
Our business energy experts have all the knowledge and resources necessary to navigate the finer details of the business energy market and can find cost-saving opportunities that may not be apparent to you. Comparing business energy prices with SmarterBusiness is a quick and simple process that allows you to focus on your core business activities, safe in the knowledge that you’re not paying more than you need to on your energy costs.
What can you compare with Smarter Business?
Switching to a smarter gas tariff can help your business make huge savings on its energy costs, especially for gas-intensive operations such as restaurants, hotels, or agricultural businesses. Gas prices are notoriously volatile, so comparing tariffs and locking in a low contract rate is vital for keeping your bills down.
Whatever your business needs, we can help you find the best tariff for you*. We’ll take into consideration your business size, your usage, and tariff type, whether it’s on a fixed rate, deemed rate, or rolling contract, and conduct a comprehensive analysis of the market to recommend a cost-effective tariff tailored to your business requirements and sustainability goals.
What types of business energy tariffs are available?
Fixed Tariffs
Fixed rate tariffs offer your business a set unit cost of energy per kilowatt hour (kWh) that’s locked in for the duration of your contract. This provides price certainty and peace of mind that you won’t be affected by any sudden price rises due to market fluctuations. Your bills will, of course, vary depending on your usage, and you also won’t benefit from any dips in price in the market. However, fixed rate contracts are great if you find a rate that you’re happy with.
Flexible Tariffs
Flexible energy tariffs, also known as variable tariffs, will fluctuate in line with wholesale energy prices. This means that the unit rate your business pays for its energy can change month to month, depending on market conditions. This type of contract represents more of a risk than a fixed tariff, as you could be hit with sudden price hikes, but you would also benefit from any drop in wholesale costs. If choosing a flexible tariff, it’s important to keep a close eye on the market and adjust your business’ energy usage accordingly.
Deemed Tariffs
A deemed tariff is a type of energy contract that applies to businesses that fail to switch or negotiate a new contract after moving into new premises. Charges on deemed tariffs are typically higher than usual, so comparing business energy deals is especially important after any move. While no business will switch to a deemed tariff, it’s important to be aware of what they are, as you’ll almost certainly be overpaying for your energy if you remain on one.
Duel Fuel Tariffs
A dual fuel tariff combines your energy costs into one single bill. While this offers businesses convenience and simplicity when it comes to their energy bills, bundling both supplies together can often result in significant savings, too. When it comes to business energy contracts, dual fuel tariffs are typically not as common as they are with domestic energy contracts, but they are certainly available and should be looked out for.
Single Fuel Tariffs
As opposed to dual fuel tariffs, single fuel tariffs are energy contracts that only provide businesses with either gas or electricity. While they don’t offer the same level of simplicity and convenience that dual fuel tariffs do, they provide businesses the opportunity to tailor their energy contracts depending on their specific needs. This extra flexibility can help companies to better manage their energy usage and reduce their overall costs.
How to switch business energy suppliers
Switching business energy suppliers shouldn’t be daunting. If you know what to do, then it’s a relatively quick and simple process that will help you to save on your commercial energy contract. To run a business energy price comparison and switch from your current supplier, simply follow these steps:
What to look for in a business energy supplier
Once you’ve chosen a new business energy supplier or tariff, we’ll take care of the switching process for you. This includes informing your current energy supplier of your intention to switch and agreeing on a start date for your new contract with your chosen supplier. Then, all you need to do is sit back and enjoy the savings your business will enjoy with your new energy deal. To get started, hit the ‘Get a quote’ button now.
Rates
Compare both the unit rates and standing charges offered by each tariff, and also look out for tariffs with differential or multi-rate tariffs to see which supplier offers the best value for money*.
Contract terms
You should also compare the terms and conditions of different business energy contracts, such as the duration of the contract, flexibility, and any early termination fees.
Reputation
The reputation of an energy supplier is also an important consideration for your business. If you’re unsure about a supplier, you can research their reputation for reliability and customer service.
Green Credentials
If sustainability is a key part of your business strategy, as is increasingly the case, then consider a supplier that uses renewable sources or carbon offsetting schemes.
Customer Service
The level of customer service that energy suppliers provide businesses with can vary quite a lot. Choosing an energy supplier that prioritises business customers, provides excellent support, and addresses any issues promptly will save time and hassle.
Understanding business energy prices, charges and rates
Various costs contribute towards the final cost of your business electricity. The two main charges that you’ll see on your electricity bills are the unit cost and the standing charge. The unit cost is the amount charged for each kilowatt hour (kWh) of electricity used, while the standing charge is a set rate that’s charged each day for the supply itself, no matter how much energy your business uses.
But how are these rates determined? A number of factors contribute to the total cost, including wholesale electricity costs, VAT, transportation costs, and environmental costs, such as the Climate Change Levy (CCL).
All of the following contribute towards business electricity pricing:
- Wholesale costs
- VAT (20% for businesses)
- Supply distribution costs
- Environmental taxes (CCL
- Operating costs
How much are business electricity rates currently?
Business energy prices will also vary slightly depending on the size of your business, which itself is determined by your businesses electricity consumption each year.
Here are the current rates (average) of business electricity as of March 2025:
| Business Size | Average Unit Cost of Electricity | Average Electricity Standing Charge | Average Annual Bill | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Micro Businesses (up to 5,000kWh per year) | 26.6p | 54.4p | £863.56 (based on annual usage of 2,500 kWh) | |
| Small Business (5,000 – 15,000 kWh per year) | 26.6p | 66.7p | £2,903.46 (based on annual usage of 10,000 kWh) | |
| Medium Businesses (15,000 – 25,000 kWh per year) | 26.3p | 73.7p | £5,529.01 (based on annual usage of 20,000 kWh) | |
| Large Businesses (25,000 – 50,000 kWh per year) | 26.2p | 122.2p | £10,271.03 (based on annual usage of 37,500 kWh) | |
| Very Large Businesses (50,000+ kWh per year) | 25.8p | 122.2p | £15,926.03 (based on annual usage of 60,000 kWh) | See current electricity prices |
*Prices correct as of March 2025
Business Gas Prices
| Business Size | Average Unit Cost of Gas | Average Gas Standing Charge | Average Annual Bill | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Micro Businesses (up to 5,000kWh per year) | 9p | 37.1p | £360.42 (based on annual usage of 2,500 kWh) | |
| Small Business (5,000 – 15,000 kWh per year) | 7.8p | 46.5p | £949.73 (based on annual usage of 10,000 kWh) | |
| Medium Businesses (15,000 – 25,000 kWh per year) | 7.7p | 46.7p | £1,710.46 (based on annual usage of 20,000 kWh) | |
| Large Businesses (25,000 – 50,000 kWh per year) | 7.7p | 56.5p | £3,093.73 (based on annual usage of 37,500 kWh) | |
| Very Large Businesses (50,000+ kWh per year) | 6.8p | 163.9p | £4,678.24 (based on annual usage of 37,500 kWh) | See current gas prices |
*Prices correct as of March 2025
You should also note that business electricity rates can fluctuate quite a lot from month to month, as they are largely determined by highly volatile wholesale energy costs. While business electricity prices are currently falling and are significantly lower in 2024 than they were in 2023, there is no guarantee that this downward trend will continue. For peace of mind, it’s advisable to get a fixed energy contract, which will lock in your unit rate and standing charge for the entirety of your contract
Should you switch to a green energy supplier?
Switching to a green energy supplier can provide significant benefits for your business, such as helping it meet its net zero carbon goals, enhancing its brand reputation, boosting its green credentials, and future-proofing its operations. And while renewable energy suppliers used to charge a premium, green energy tariffs are very competitive in today’s market, so you could be able to save on your business energy bills too.
There are many different types of green energy tariffs. Some suppliers will source their energy from 100% renewable sources, while others will combine a mixture of renewable and non-renewable energy. Other suppliers may use carbon offsetting schemes, which may involve matching the amount of energy you consume with green energy generation elsewhere.
Transitioning to green energy can drastically reduce your company’s carbon footprint, which can enhance its reputation by showing commitment to sustainability. Customers from all sectors increasingly value businesses that prioritize eco-friendly practices, and this positive perception can lead to higher customer loyalty. Investing in green energy today can also protect you from any future shocks in the volatile fossil fuel market, providing extra resilience to your business as a whole.
What other services does SmarterBusiness provide?
Utility Procurement Services
Our team of business energy experts can assist you in finding and managing your business energy contracts. Our energy brokers can navigate the market and negotiate competitive prices on your behalf, helping you to reduce costs and ensure a reliable supply.
Energy Management
No matter what sector your business is in, we can create an effective energy management plan that will allow you to optimise your efficiency and lower your bills. Our experts will analyse your energy usage and advise you on how to implement energy-saving measures, as well as manage all your business utility contracts, including raising issues with suppliers and dealing with them directly.
Net Zero Carbon Solutions
Our energy audits will help to identify any inefficiencies in your business operations, helping you to reduce your overall usage and carbon footprint. Businesses that use our net zero solutions will have a much better chance of reaching their sustainability goals.
Energy Monitoring Software and Metering Solutions
Our cloud-based energy monitoring software allows your business to track and monitor its energy usage in real time, which then provides you with the know-how to make data-driven decisions to optimise your operations. We also provide metering solutions, using the latest technology to analyse your energy usage patterns and identify inefficiencies.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How much does business energy cost per kWh?
Commercial electricity rates depend on the size of your business and its annual energy consumption. As of February 2024, the unit cost of electricity per kWh for micro businesses is 24.2p, while this rises to 25.2p for large businesses. The standing charge also rises depending on the size of your business, from 95.8p up to 120.1p per day.
Business gas prices often depend on the size of your business. As of February 2024, the unit price of gas per kWh is 9.6p for small businesses but drops to 6.6p for very large businesses (those that use over 50,000 kWh per year). The standing charge also varies hugely, from 43.6p per day for micro businesses to 183.2p for very large businesses.
Can I cancel my business energy contract for free?
Generally, you won’t be able to cancel your current contract before it expires, as you’ll be charged an early termination fee to do so. That’s why it’s important to check the terms and conditions of your current business energy contract before trying to switch to a cheaper deal.
How do I find out who my business energy supplier is?
If you don’t know who your current supplier is, you can find out by looking at a recent energy bill. If you’ve recently moved to a new business premises, contact the previous tenant or, if you’re renting, the landlord. Alternatively, you can call the Meter Number Helpline on 0870 608 1524.
How much can I save by switching business energy suppliers?
The exact amount you can save on your business energy bills each year by switching suppliers depends on a range of factors, including your business size, the actual amount of energy it uses each year, the difference in rates between your old tariff and your new one, and the type of tariff you switch to. However, for certain businesses who are switching from a deemed or rollover tariff, savings of up to £1,120* per year (or 40% of their annual bill) could be made.
How long does it take to switch supplier?
Switching business energy suppliers can take as little as five working days, although it could take up to three weeks, depending on the terms of your current contract. When switching with SmarterBusiness, we can handle the entire process for you, and at no point will your business be left without power.
Do I need a new meter when switching energy supplier?
In most cases, you won’t need to install a new meter when switching business energy suppliers. However, if you want to get the most accurate business energy quotes for your business, then you should consider switching to a smart meter or half-hourly meter.
Can I change my mind after switching business energy suppliers?
While most domestic energy tariffs provide customers with a 14-day cooling-off period in which they are free to cancel the switch should they change their mind, this typically isn’t the case with business energy contracts. Therefore, it’s extremely important to check all the rates, terms, and conditions of any new contract before committing to a switch.
Can I switch business energy suppliers at any time?
Yes, technically you can switch business energy suppliers at any time, but it may not always be beneficial to do so. If you’re currently in the middle of a variable or fixed-rate tariff, then you’ll likely be charged early termination fees to get out of the contract early, which will often offset the financial benefit of switching in the first place. However, when your contract is coming to an end – usually 90 days before its end date – then you are free to compare quotes and switch, and suppliers should make businesses aware of this switching window. You’re also free to switch if you’re on a deemed or rolling contract.
How do I know if my business energy bills are accurate?
As long as you provide regular meter readings (i.e. every month) then your bills will accurately reflect the amount of energy it uses. Failure to provide regular meter readings will lead to your supplier billing you based on estimates, which can often result in you paying for more that what your business uses. A good way to avoid this is to install a smart meter that provides real-time updates to your supplier about your consumption, ensuring accurate bills each month.
* All prices are reviewed against fluctuating market values and subjective variables and may not always reflect the best possible price.