A small business guide to smarter energy decisions

Switching your business energy tariff can feel like yet another admin task on an already long list - but the truth is simple: staying on the wrong tariff costs small businesses money. Whether you’ve just moved into a new premise, your contract is ending or you’re wondering if loyalty still pays, making the right switch at the right time can protect your business costs.

This blog breaks down when to switch, why it matters and how to compare business energy tariffs with confidence.

Is now the right time to switch my small business energy? Understanding today’s volatile energy market

Energy prices are very unpredictable right now and that volatility is shaping how businesses think about switching. But uncertainty doesn’t mean inaction - it just means being informed. Understanding what drives price changes and how to read the market can help you decide whether to lock in a deal or hold off.

What’s causing the volatility?

Several factors influence wholesale energy prices and many sit outside a business’s control:

Global events - geopolitical tensions, supply disruptions and international demand can push prices up or down quickly.
Weather patterns - cold snaps, heatwaves or low renewable generation can increase demand and reduce supply.
Infrastructure and supply - maintenance, outages or changes in gas storage levels can affect availability and cost.
Market competition - suppliers adjust tariffs based on wholesale costs and how competitive the market is at any given time.

This combination means prices can move quickly - sometimes within a day - making it important to stay aware of your options.

How to know whether to switch in a volatile market

Moving into a new business premise? Switch immediately

If you’ve just taken over a new shop, office or workspace, you’ll automatically be placed on a deemed tariff - one of the most expensive types of business energy rates. Deemed tariffs are designed as temporary holding rates, not long term solutions and they can significantly inflate your energy costs.

Why switch off a deemed tariff quickly?

Prices are usually much higher than contracted rates
You’re not tied in - you can switch immediately
You gain control over your costs from day one
You can choose a tariff that matches your business needs

We have written a blog with more information on deemed tariffs which you can read here.

Ofgem also have information around what to do when moving business premises.

Should you switch when your small business contract ends?

In most cases, yes - or at least review your options. When your fixed term contract ends, you’ll typically roll onto an out of contract or variable rate. These are often more expensive and unpredictable.

Does loyalty pay? Should you switch supplier?

Sometimes the most competitive tariffs are offered to new customers, which means reviewing your options can unlock better value. But staying with your current supplier can still make sense - especially if you’re getting excellent service, useful digital tools or a rate that suits your business’s needs.

Many contract-based industries work this way, from broadband and mobile to insurance. Introductory deals are designed to attract new customers, while existing ones may move onto standard rates over time. That’s why a quick comparison can be so helpful: it shows whether your current deal is still working hard for you. Often you don’t need to switch supplier, you just need to review your current energy tariff.

When loyalty might make sense:

You value exceptional customer service
You rely on specific digital tools or account management features
Your supplier offers sustainability options aligned with your brand
Your familiar with their invoicing layout to make reading and paying your invoices simple
You’re short on time and it’s easy to fix with your current supplier

But even then, it’s worth comparing the market. A quick check can confirm whether your current deal is genuinely competitive. You can get a quote with EDF small business in 60 seconds.

What to consider before switching

Switching business energy is simpler than many think – if you’re not on a fixed contract, you don’t need to give notice and there’s no disruption to supply. But choosing the right tariff means understanding what matters most to your business.