How Much Can You Save by Switching to a New Business Gas Provider?

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In the UK, energy suppliers compete to provide the best services at the most reasonable rates. This is an excellent advantage for consumers because unlike other countries where a single company monopolises energy, consumers here can switch providers when they feel that they are paying more than they should.

What does it mean to switch suppliers?

Transferring energy suppliers is not a complicated process. These days, business consumers can switch suppliers through any of the three following methods:

• Contact suppliers directly and facilitate the switch
• Use a comparison website like Utility Bidder to shop for quotes and complete a transfer form online
• Hire a broker who will contact suppliers and negotiate the best terms and rates possible

Any of these steps are guaranteed to get you a lower price, regardless of which you prefer. Nevertheless, for convenience and efficiency, business owners typically choose to either use a comparison website or hire a broker.

Understanding the terms ‘out of contract’ and ‘deemed rate’

An out of contract rate occurs when a business owner fails to cancel a deal that is about to expire, and the supplier places the customer on a new price which is usually higher than the previous rate. On the other hand, a deemed rate occurs when there is a change in tenancy or ownership of a particular property.

Both of these rates are quite expensive, and if you are paying one of these rates, it is best to change tariffs as soon as possible to save money.

How much do businesses save by switching energy suppliers?

Savings are guaranteed if you switch, but the amount depends on several factors. Some of the considerations include the last time you changed, as well as your total energy consumption. The size of the business is also a factor that affects the annual savings of each company after transferring to a new energy supplier. A micro-business can save about 25% annually, a small business 27%, a medium business 37%, a large business 38%, and an industrial company 33%.

Different types of contracts

It is also vital to look into the kind of agreement you are choosing for your company as it will also have an impact on your spending. The typical term is fixed for approximately one to three years. If you prefer a fixed term, the rate will remain as is throughout the contract period. There is also an option to choose a flexible term.

The difference is that the rates applied to a flexible term depend on the current market prices. What this means is that when market prices are down, you will also pay lower rates. Unfortunately, if there is a sudden surge in wholesale energy prices, you will also take the hit.

A fixed rate protects you from the volatility of the UK energy market, which is why it is the natural choice for most business owners. For a residential consumer that is not tied to a contract, it makes sense to gamble on a flexible rate. But for a business owner, there is certainty and convenience in choosing a fixed term because you can easily project your company’s expenses based on the current rates you are paying.

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Supply Chain Management (SCM) is the design, planning, execution, control, and monitoring of Supply Chain activities. It also captures the management of the flow of goods and services.

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