Before you sign up for an energy contract, you should know what your options are and what to expect from your supplier. Read this article to find out about Tariffs, Out-of-contract rates, Multi-site metering and more. It will also help you choose the best deal for your business.
Tariffs
The business sector is facing increasing costs of running a business. Many customers are now realising that the business energy rates that the big companies are charging them may not be the best rates and service. As a result, one in three customers are switching from the big providers to smaller independent firms. To find the best deal for your company, you need to know which energy supplier is best for your needs.
It is important to keep in mind that business energy rates in the UK aren’t affected by the government’s price caps. However, a formal contract for a fixed or variable term can help you get the best deal. Businesses should also compare the tariffs of different energy providers in the region that they operate in.
Suppliers
There are many things to consider when looking for a new supplier of business energy. While it is best to choose the one that offers the lowest business energy rates, it is also important to choose one based on your business’s needs. For example, you should avoid signing a contract with a supplier that charges you high out of contract rates, even if you have a good relationship with the company.
The cost of business energy will vary significantly depending on the location of your business. Many people believe that the cheapest tariff is the best option, but you can also pay for extra services. Having an account manager is one option that you can add to your package.
Out-of-contract rates
Out-of-contract business energy rates are different from normal tariff rates. These energy rates apply when a business stops using its energy contract or a supplier changes. When this happens, the business is charged the default rate until a new contract is in place. These energy rates are usually higher than contract rates, so it is important to know what you’re paying.
Out-of-contract rates are extremely expensive. They can double or even quadruple the market rate. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid these rates. The first step is to pay attention to your contracts. Make sure the contract includes the expiry date and renewal period.
Multi-site metering
Multi-site metering is an important way of monitoring energy consumption for a multi-site business. These businesses usually consume a large volume of energy and need to control their costs. These contracts should be managed effectively to avoid being charged high rates and being unable to meet your contractual obligations.
Multi-site metering is a great way to manage your energy costs, and it also saves you time. Businesses often have several different energy meters throughout their property portfolio, and managing each one individually can take up a significant portion of their time. Fortunately, multi-site metering will make managing multiple energy contracts much simpler and will enable you to lock in the best price for your business.
Multi-site metering allows businesses to manage multiple energy accounts, reducing the need for multiple renewal dates and bills. This type of metering also gives businesses more buying power when comparing suppliers. By grouping your premises under one account, you can unlock discounted rates on both electricity and gas, and can negotiate better deals with your suppliers. Moreover, when you switch suppliers, you only have one bill to remember instead of several.
VAT
VAT on business energy rates is often a source of frustration for many business owners. The good news is that there are ways to reduce these costs. One way is to qualify for a reduced VAT rate. A mixed-use business can claim a lower VAT rate if 60 percent of its energy consumption is for domestic purposes. If your business qualifies for this rate, your supplier will apply the VAT discount automatically.
If you’re concerned that you’ve paid too much VAT, you can backdate your claims. You can claim a refund of up to four years’ worth of payments. The refund you receive will cover the difference between the standard rate of VAT and the discounted rate. In addition, since the government introduced the Climate Change Programme in 2001, businesses have yet another opportunity to reduce their energy bills.
