How to switch business energy suppliers
Want to lower your small business energy bills? Switching suppliers could be your answer. Learn all about switching business electricity and gas: from how to organise it to what you can expect.
If you're ready to switch now - get a quote in 60 seconds.
How to change your business energy supplier
Step 1
Before you make your business energy switch, we need some information about your current supply – we normally need basic information such as:
- Your business address
- Contact details
- How much energy do you use (kWh or £) – this can be found on your bill
- Type of business (LTD, Sole trader, Charity or Partnership)
- Company registration number (if LTD)
- Meter type – this can be found on your bill
Step 2
Now, it’s time to compare business energy supplier tariffs. You can use a business energy switching service, a broker, a comparison website or for the best deal, go directly to the provider.
Need a hand with finding the best deal for your business? Read our guide to getting the best price.
How long does it take to change business energy suppliers?
If you’re not in a fixed contract, you can switch straight away and it should take as little as 5 working days.
Currently in a contract with another supplier?
If you’re in a fixed contract, you must let your new supplier know your current contract end date. Your new supplier needs this date so they can apply to take over your supply once your contract has ended, to prevent your contract ending early and you potentially being charged an early termination fee. You’ll usually start with your new supplier the day after your old contract ends.
You can usually start looking for a new business energy supplier up to a year before your current contract ends.
Found a new supplier and ready to switch?
Once you've found a new business energy supplier and are ready to make the move, follow these simple steps:
- Agree the contract with your new supplier
- Pay off any outstanding balance, if you have one, with your current supplie
- On the date you switch you'll need to provide an opening meter reading which we'll send over to your old supplier for them to issue your final invoice
Is it worth switching?
When comparing energy contracts, look at the following:
- How much you pay per unit of electricity and/or gas, and if it can change
- If there are any extra costs, e.g. FiT levy (this is a government tax that some suppliers include in the quote and some don’t)
- How long the contract is and if there’s a cancellation fee
- How much notice you need to give at the end of the contract, if any
What happens if you don’t switch when the contract ends?
Out-of-contract rates usually apply after a contract has ended. These are typically more expensive than in-contract tariffs, so it’s worth reviewing your options with plenty of time to decide.
Set on switching business energy suppliers?
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