Business Energy FAQs | The Best Energy Rates Ltd

Question 1

Is your service really free?

Accepted Answer

Yes — completely free to your business. We're paid a commission by the energy supplier when you switch through us. There is no cost to you at any stage, and you're under no obligation to switch.

Question 2

How do you make money if the service is free?

Accepted Answer

We receive a commission from the energy supplier you choose. This is built into the supplier's pricing and doesn't affect the rates you're quoted — in fact, because we compare the whole market, you'll typically pay less than going direct to a supplier.

Question 3

Are you independent?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We're not tied to any supplier and have no financial incentive to recommend one supplier over another. Our only interest is finding the best deal for your business.

Question 4

How many suppliers do you compare?

Accepted Answer

We compare rates from 13+ major UK business energy suppliers, including British Gas, EDF, E.ON, Npower, Scottish Power, Opus Energy, Total Energies, and others. The exact panel varies depending on your consumption profile and location.

Question 5

How long does the process take?

Accepted Answer

Getting a comparison typically takes 24–48 hours once we have your details. Signing a new contract can be done the same day. The switch itself usually takes 28 days for out-of-contract customers, or completes on your contract end date for planned renewals.

Question 6

Can I switch if I'm still in a contract?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your contract terms. Some contracts allow early exit with a termination fee; others don't. We can review your current contract and advise whether switching early makes financial sense — sometimes the savings outweigh the exit fee, sometimes it's better to wait.

Question 7

What is a deemed rate?

Accepted Answer

A deemed rate (also called an out-of-contract rate) is what your supplier charges when your fixed-term contract has expired and you haven't arranged a new one. Deemed rates are typically 40–60% higher than contracted rates. If you're on deemed rates, switching should be a priority.

Question 8

What notice period do I need to give?

Accepted Answer

Most business energy contracts require 30–90 days' notice before the end date. The exact period is in your contract documents. We recommend starting the renewal process at least 6 months before your contract ends to avoid being auto-rolled onto unfavourable rates.

Question 9

What is an auto-rollover clause?

Accepted Answer

An auto-rollover clause means your contract automatically renews for another term if you don't give notice within a specified window. This can lock you into another year at potentially unfavourable rates. Always check your contract for this clause and set a reminder to give notice in time.

Question 10

How long are business energy contracts?

Accepted Answer

Business energy contracts are typically 1, 2, or 3 years. Longer contracts offer more price certainty but less flexibility. The right length depends on your view of future energy prices and your business's circumstances.

Question 11

What happens to my energy supply when I switch?

Accepted Answer

Nothing changes physically — the same pipes and cables deliver your energy. Only the billing relationship changes. There is no interruption to your supply during a switch.

Question 12

What affects my business energy price?

Accepted Answer

The main factors are: your annual consumption (kWh), your peak demand (kW), your location (network charges vary by region), your credit rating, the contract length you choose, and current wholesale energy market conditions.

Question 13

What is a standing charge?

Accepted Answer

A standing charge is a fixed daily charge that covers the cost of maintaining your connection to the energy network, regardless of how much energy you use. It's separate from your unit rate (the cost per kWh you consume).

Question 14

What is the Climate Change Levy?

Accepted Answer

The Climate Change Levy (CCL) is a government tax on energy used by businesses. It's charged per kWh and appears as a separate line on your bill. Charities and businesses using energy for certain purposes may be exempt.

Question 15

Can I get a green energy tariff?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many suppliers offer tariffs backed by renewable energy sources. These are now competitively priced with standard tariffs. We can include green options in your comparison.

Question 16

What is half-hourly metering?

Accepted Answer

Half-hourly (HH) metering records your electricity consumption every 30 minutes. It's mandatory for businesses with peak demand above 100kW (Profile Class 00 meters). HH data gives you detailed insight into your consumption patterns and is used to calculate demand charges.

Question 17

Do you work with farms and agricultural businesses?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we have extensive experience with agricultural energy procurement. We understand seasonal consumption patterns, the specific tariff structures that suit farms, and the potential for renewable generation on agricultural land.

Question 18

Can charities get reduced VAT on energy?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Charities using energy for non-business (charitable) purposes can qualify for the reduced VAT rate of 5% rather than the standard 20%. They may also be exempt from the Climate Change Levy. We ensure charity clients' contracts are structured to take advantage of these reliefs.

Question 19

Do you handle multi-site businesses?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We specialise in multi-site energy procurement and can manage your entire portfolio — comparing rates across all your meters simultaneously and potentially negotiating volume discounts. This is significantly more efficient than managing each site individually.

Question 20

Can you help with change of tenancy situations?

Accepted Answer

Yes. When you move into new premises, you'll initially be placed on the landlord's or previous tenant's contract (often at deemed rates). We can help you set up a new supply contract quickly to avoid paying over the odds.

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