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Comparing Energy Rates for Small Businesses

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What distinguishes micro, small, and medium businesses, and how does this impact your energy plan?

Before comparing energy plans for small businesses, it's essential to know the category your business fits into. SME (Small and Medium Enterprises) is a broad term encompassing micro, small, and medium-sized businesses. The type of energy contract you can access, the level of protection you're entitled to, and the support available may vary depending on whether your business is classified as micro, small, or medium.

Micro Business

  • Typically employs fewer than 10 people.
  • Has an annual turnover or balance sheet total of less than £632,000.
  • Consumes no more than 100,000 kWh of electricity or 293,000 kWh of gas annually.
  • Energy consumption is usually comparable to or slightly greater than a large household

Small Business

  • Employs between 10 and 49 people.
  • Has an annual turnover or balance sheet total of less than £10.2 million.
  • Consumes no more than 200,000 kWh of electricity and 500,000 kWh of gas annually.
  • Typically has higher energy demands than a micro business due to dedicated office spaces and equipment.

Medium Business

  • Employs fewer than 250 people.
  • Has an annual turnover between £10.2 million and £44 million.
  • Often has substantial energy requirements, necessitating tailored contracts, multiple locations, or larger premises.

How does this affect the energy plans available to you?

Micro businesses enjoy increased transparency and may be eligible for simplified energy contracts with more favorable terms. For example, micro businesses often have the flexibility to terminate contracts and switch energy providers with shorter notice.

Small businesses are granted some regulatory protections but typically face more complex energy requirements than micro businesses. Consequently, they often need tailored energy plans to accommodate their higher consumption.

Medium-sized businesses generally have larger energy needs and more complex requirements, especially if they operate across multiple locations or larger facilities. This often necessitates more specialized energy contracts.

Understanding the ins and outs of business energy contracts puts you in control of your switching options and managing current agreements.

Get informed about everything related to business energy

Our business energy experts provide comprehensive guides on topics ranging from MPANs and meter readings to price caps and cooling-off periods. Explore our latest articles below or visit our Energy & Utility Guides hub to access the full collection.

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How does this affect the energy plans available to you?

Micro businesses enjoy increased transparency and may be eligible for simplified energy contracts with more favorable terms. For example, micro businesses often have the flexibility to terminate contracts and switch energy providers with shorter notice. Small businesses are granted some regulatory protections but typically face more complex energy requirements than micro businesses. Consequently, they often need tailored energy plans to accommodate their higher consumption.

Medium-sized businesses generally have larger energy needs and more complex requirements, especially if they operate across multiple locations or larger facilities. This often necessitates more specialized energy contracts

Want to contribute to the UK’s journey towards Net Zero emissions?

Green Energy for Small Businesses

Are you looking to support the UK’s move towards Net Zero emissions? With improvements in green technology, renewable energy plans are now more accessible and affordable for businesses of all sizes. Many energy suppliers offer green tariffs by default, making it easier for small businesses to switch to renewable energy.
Energy suppliers provide tariffs with different levels of renewable energy. Some offer 100% green electricity, while others blend renewable sources with conventional energy. Be sure to compare the specific energy mix of each supplier to ensure it aligns with your sustainability goals.
Although green energy tariffs may occasionally cost more than traditional ones, they can provide long-term savings and price stability, particularly as fossil fuel prices vary.
Like standard tariffs, renewable energy contracts can feature fixed or flexible rates with different contract durations. Consider these elements in line with your business's financial goals and energy usage habits.
Choose suppliers who are open about their energy sources and have certifications from respected environmental organizations. This guarantees that the renewable energy you’re purchasing is genuinely sourced from sustainable methods.
The renewable energy market is constantly changing, with green tariffs becoming more affordable as technology improves. By comparing deals regularly, you can ensure you're getting the best and most cost-effective renewable energy options available.

What other factors influence your energy plan as a small business?

Aside from the size of your business, several key factors can influence both your energy plan and its cost:

The industry in which your business operates plays a major role in determining your energy usage. Businesses in sectors like manufacturing or hospitality generally consume more energy than those in retail or professional services.
Fixed-rate contracts offer predictable costs, helping with budgeting, while variable-rate contracts allow businesses to capitalize on changes in market prices.
The kind of meter you use, and whether you have multiple meters for different sites, will affect your energy plan, particularly for businesses with several locations.
Energy prices can vary by region, and some areas may provide incentives or grants for businesses working to enhance their energy efficiency.
The more energy your business uses, the higher your overall energy costs will be.

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