Business Energy FAQ

Yes, our team based in the UK. Call 0115 6485612 to chat to our friedly support staff

Yes, our team based in the UK. Call 0115 6485612 to chat to our friedly support staff

Direct Utilities can provide your business with a wide range of business energy contract options Fixed-price business energy tariffs and Green and carbon neutral business energy tariffs. We compare the well known energy providers and a number of smaller energy suppliers.  Such as British Gas, Scottishpower, EDF Energy, Utilita, Total, Pozitivem SSE, Shell Energy, Opus Energy, SSE, Smartest Enerfy, Crona Energy, Crown Enery and Total Energy.

There are many reasons why you might want to switch your business energy supplier. One of the most common reasons is to save money on your energy bills and have a fixed contract. However, you might also be interested in switching to a supplier that offers better customer service, more flexible payment options, or renewable energy options.

AMR

Automated Meter Reading - the meter is read via an automated system.

HH

Half-Hourly: denotes electricity services charged on a half-hourly basis. Profile class 00.

MPAN

Meter Point Administration Number: a two-part meter number found on electricity meters.

MPR / MPRN

Meter Point Reference Number: the meter number found on gas meters.

NHH

Non-Half-Hourly: denotes electricity services charged on a non-half-hourly basis, usually profile classes 03 and 04.

In 99% of cases, there won't be any downtime during the switch. The new supplier will typically take over your energy supply seamlessly, so you won't experience any interruptions in service. 

Direct Utilities  can provide your business with a wide range of business energy contract options

Fixed-price business energy tariffs
100 Green and carbon-neutral business energy tariffs

Switching your business energy supplier is a very straightforward process with Direct Utilities. We compare rates and plans from different suppliers to find the best option for your business.  We handle the rest of the process, including notifying your old supplier of the switch. 

Using an energy comparison site or energy broker we can help you find the best energy supplier. To allow us to speak to you current provider and new suppliers, we need a Letter of Authority (LoA) . This is a recognised legal document. It allows us (the broker) to purchase energy and liaise with suppliers on your behalf and with your permission. Put simply, an LoA allows us to cancel your existing tariff. As well as setting up a more competitive new one.

We consolidate all your meters to one common end date with the same supplier and save you time in the process.

Half-hourly meters, also known as HH meters or '00' meters, are electricity meters for businesses that take meter readings every half hour. The process is automated and monitored by the electricity supplier, freeing up time and labor on the business owner's behalf . This allows the supplier to split energy consumption into 30-minute blocks and get an accurate picture of the business's energy use. Both the older-style Advanced Meter Reading (AMR) devices and the newer smart meters can take half-hourly readings .

This will largely depend on your current and new suppliers, and how swiftly they can manage the switch. We'll keep you informed at every stage, so you'll always be aware of what's happening.

No, we mange this on your behalf.

When it comes to finding the cheapest energy for your business, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The cost of energy for businesses can vary significantly based on several key factors. Let's explore the main variables that play a role in determining your energy costs:

1. Usage

• Consumption Patterns: The amount of energy your business uses and the times of day when you use it can impact your energy costs. Businesses with high energy demands during peak hours may face higher rates.

• Efficiency: Energy-efficient practices and technologies can help reduce overall consumption, leading to lower costs.

2. Sector

• Industry-Specific Rates: Different industries often have varying energy needs and usage patterns. Some sectors, such as manufacturing, may have higher energy consumption compared to others like retail or offices.

• Regulatory Factors: Energy regulations and incentives can differ by sector, affecting the overall cost of energy.

3. Renewal Date

• Contract Terms: The timing of your energy contract renewal can influence the rates you receive. Energy prices can fluctuate based on market conditions, and securing a contract during a low-price period can lead to savings.

• Fixed vs. Variable Rates: Some businesses opt for fixed-rate contracts, providing stability in energy costs, while others choose variable rates, which can fluctuate but may offer lower prices during certain periods.

4. Geographic Location

• Regional Differences: Energy prices can vary by region due to factors such as local energy sources, infrastructure, and demand.

• Grid Reliability: The reliability of the local energy grid can also impact costs, with regions facing frequent outages potentially incurring additional expenses for backup solutions.

5. Energy Market Conditions

• Supply and Demand: Market conditions, including supply and demand dynamics, can affect energy prices. Factors such as geopolitical events, natural disasters, and fuel prices can all play a role.

• Energy Auctions: Participating in energy auctions or utilizing energy brokers can help businesses secure competitive rates.

In conclusion, finding the cheapest energy for your business requires a thorough understanding of these variables and careful consideration of your unique circumstances. By analysing your usage patterns, sector-specific needs, contract terms, location, and market conditions, we can assist you to make informed decisions to optimizse your energy costs. Additionally, exploring renewable energy options and staying informed about regulatory changes can further enhance your energy strategy.

So, while there's no one definitive answer to the cheapest energy, a tailored approach that considers all these factors will set you on the right path towards cost-effective and sustainable energy solutions for your business.