Currently, there are no government schemes available to assist businesses with energy bills. However, rising energy costs don’t have to disrupt your business. With the right strategies, you can take control of your energy expenses and find ways to reduce them effectively.
From switching energy suppliers and improving efficiency to installing smart meters, there are practical steps you can take to manage your costs. If your microbusiness is struggling to pay bills, exploring available options and acting quickly can make a big difference.
In this blog, we’ll explain what is business energy support and how can it help with your energy bills. Learn actionable tips to ease your energy challenges and keep your business running smoothly.
What is Business Energy Support?
All those people who want to know what business energy support is? The business energy support refers to programs or initiatives aimed at helping businesses manage rising energy costs.
These efforts often include financial assistance, such as discounts or grants on electricity and gas bills. They are typically introduced during times of high energy prices or designed for industries with significant energy consumption.
No Government Schemes Currently Available
No deals are available currently; how to lower bills? There are ways you can manage or reduce your energy expenses. Switching to a different energy supplier is one potential solution that could help lower costs.
If your microbusiness is struggling to pay energy bills, there are several steps you can take. The best approach depends on your specific situation, such as:
- Being in debt to your energy supplier.
- Receiving a bill that you cannot afford to pay.
- Regularly facing challenges in keeping up with your energy payments.
By understanding your options and taking proactive steps, you can manage your business energy costs more effectively.
How Can Switching Energy Suppliers Save You Money?
Switching energy suppliers can be an effective way to reduce costs. You should consider making the switch if:
- Your fixed-term contract has ended, and you’re on a costly ‘rollover’ or ‘end-of-contract’ tariff.
- You’ve moved into a new property and are on a ‘deemed’ tariff, which is typically more expensive.
As long as you’re not in debt to your current supplier, you can shop around for better deals without worrying about penalties or advance notice.
What Steps Can You Take to Lower Your Energy Bills?
If your energy bills are consistently hard to manage, there are several practical steps you can take. Switching suppliers is a good starting point, but you can also explore options like installing a smart meter.
Smart meters help you monitor energy usage in real time, ensuring you only pay for what you use. They also come with an in-home display (IHD), making it easier to track consumption and costs.
Check If You Can Get a Smart Meter
A smart meter can make managing energy bills much easier. It ensures accurate billing by automatically sending energy readings to your supplier, so you only pay for what you use.
Many suppliers provide an in-home display (IHD) with the smart meter, allowing you to monitor energy consumption and costs in real time.
If you rent your premises, consult your landlord before installation. A smart meter is an excellent way to gain better control over your energy usage and reduce unnecessary expenses.
How Should You Handle Energy Bill Debt?
Dealing with energy bill debt requires immediate action. Contact your supplier as soon as possible to discuss repayment options. Most suppliers are willing to negotiate a plan that works for both parties.
Make sure to check your contract to understand payment deadlines, as you typically have 28 days before being classified as in debt.
If no agreement can be reached, your supplier might apply to disconnect your energy supply. However, you can negotiate to halt the process or even present your case in court to prevent disconnection.
Acting quickly and maintaining clear communication with your supplier can help you avoid severe consequences.
Check When Your Supply Can Be Disconnected
If you’re struggling with energy bill payments, it’s essential to understand when your supplier can disconnect your supply. Typically, suppliers must give you at least 28 days after issuing a bill before applying for permission to disconnect your energy.
If they proceed, they’ll need to notify you at least 21 days before applying for a warrant. You may have the opportunity to attend a court hearing to explain your situation.
To avoid disconnection, contact your supplier as soon as possible to negotiate a repayment plan or stop the disconnection process.
How Can You Make Your Business More Energy Efficient?
Improving energy efficiency is one of the most effective ways to reduce your energy bills. Consider the following measures:
- Switch off unused computers and equipment overnight.
- Install energy-efficient light bulbs.
- Ensure your premises are properly insulated to prevent drafts.
- Fix any leaking hot taps and use hot water only as needed.
Implementing these simple yet impactful changes can lead to noticeable savings on your energy bills.
How Can Business Utility Broker Energy Consultants Help You Manage Your Bills?
Business Utility Broker Energy Consultants offer specialised support for businesses aiming to reduce energy costs and streamline bill management. Here’s how they can help:
- Compare Energy Prices: By using a vast network of suppliers, we help businesses find competitive rates customised to your specific needs. Comparing quotes across multiple suppliers ensures you secure the best deal available.
- Negotiate Contracts: Our experts negotiate contract terms on your behalf, whether it’s locking in fixed rates or adding flexibility for businesses with multiple locations. This service helps you avoid overcharges and ensures the contract aligns with your requirements.
- Reduce Financial Risk: Energy prices can fluctuate unpredictably, but with our customised strategies, you can effectively manage these risks. Our guidance provides businesses with the tools to plan energy costs confidently and avoid unexpected financial pressures.
With expert assistance, businesses can better control energy expenses and focus on their core operations.
Conclusion!
Managing energy bills can be challenging, especially with no current government schemes to assist businesses. However, by switching suppliers, improving energy efficiency, and exploring tools like smart meters, you can take control of your energy costs. If you’re struggling with payments, communicate with your supplier to negotiate a repayment plan and avoid disconnection.
Moreover, for expert guidance and personalised strategies, trust Business Utility Broker Energy Consultants. We can compare prices, negotiate contracts, and reduce financial risks, ensuring your business stays energy-efficient and cost-effective.
Contact us today to take the first step toward managing your business energy bills better!
FAQ’s
1. What is business energy support?
Business energy support refers to strategies and tools that help businesses manage and reduce their energy costs. While there are no current government schemes, businesses can take proactive steps like switching suppliers, improving energy efficiency, or consulting experts for guidance.
2. How can I save money on business energy bills?
You can save money by switching to a new energy supplier, especially if you’re on an expensive tariff like a rollover or deemed rate. Additionally, improving energy efficiency, such as using smart meters or energy-efficient appliances, can significantly lower your bills.
3. What should I do if I can’t afford my energy bills?
If you’re struggling to pay energy bills, contact your supplier immediately to discuss repayment options. Most suppliers are willing to negotiate a manageable plan. Understanding your contract terms and acting quickly can prevent disconnection.
4. How can a smart meter help my business?
A smart meter ensures accurate billing by automatically sending usage data to your supplier, so you only pay for what you use. It also comes with an in-home display (IHD) to help you monitor energy consumption and control costs effectively.
5. Can energy consultants help me reduce costs?
Yes, energy consultants like Business Utility Broker can compare prices across suppliers, negotiate better contract terms, and develop strategies to manage risks. Our expertise ensures you get the best deals and reduces financial uncertainty.
6. What steps can I take to make my business more energy-efficient?
Simple changes like turning off equipment overnight, using energy-efficient light bulbs, insulating your premises, and fixing leaking taps can lower energy consumption. These measures can lead to long-term savings and a more sustainable business.