9 Best Energy Providers & Deals in the UK Compared In this article we compare the UK’s top 16 energy providers, covering their benefits, features, costs and much more.
Our Top 3 Energy Providers in April 2024
Love Energy Savings – 4.7 stars for exceptional cost savings.Fidelity Group – 4.8 stars for great customer service and contract transparency.Energy Pal – 4.7 stars for the highest dedication to green energy solutions and sustainability.
Top 9 UK Energy Providers:
Love Energy Savings Fidelity Group Energy Pal E.ON SSE EDF Scottish Power British Gas Octopus
How have we selected these providers?
To help you find the perfect energy supplier for your business, we assess and assign scores (out of five) based on the most critical features impacting businesses:
Pricing: This is crucial for your bottom line. We analyse pricing structures, including unit rates (per kWh), fixed fees, contract lengths, and any potential discounts or green energy premiums, and we also consider the variety of plans offered to suit different business needs.Supplier Reliability & Customer Service: A dependable energy supplier with excellent customer support is vital. We evaluate a supplier’s track record for outages, complaint resolution times, and the availability and quality of customer service channels (phone, email, online chat).Contract Transparency & Flexibility: Clear and straightforward contracts are essential. Here, we assess the transparency of terms and conditions, including notice periods for switching, potential early termination fees, and the contract language’s ease of understanding. Additionally, we consider the flexibility different suppliers offer regarding contract length and the ability to adjust plans as your business needs evolve.Green Energy Options: Sustainability is increasingly important, so we evaluate the availability of green energy tariffs with renewable sources like wind or solar and the transparency of a supplier’s commitment to sustainability practices.Business Account Management Tools: Here w e assess the availability and functionality of online account management tools for monitoring usage, bill payments, and potentially managing multiple business accounts from a single platform.
Why listen to our reviews?
For over a decade, our team has been dedicated to helping businesses navigate the complexities of energy procurement. Our CEO’s proven track record in energy market analysis and our team’s in-depth knowledge of energy tariffs and regulations empowers us to guide you towards the ideal energy supplier for your business needs.
We are passionate about delivering precise, unbiased analyses of the business energy landscape in the UK. We aim to equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions that optimise energy costs and contribute to your company’s financial health.
The UK energy market offers a multitude of suppliers and plans, each catering to specific business profiles, and while we strive to provide the most comprehensive recommendations, remember there’s no single “one-size-fits-all” solution. We’ll help you navigate this diverse landscape to find the perfect fit for your business.
For a comprehensive comparison, use our comparison tool here today.
Topics covered in this article include:
What is Business Energy? Business energy is the gas and electricity supply tailored explicitly for commercial and industrial purposes. Business energy is different from residential energy as, unlike residential energy, business energy accounts for higher usage levels, longer operating hours, and the unique energy needs of various industries. It encompasses the energy required to power offices, factories, retail spaces, warehouses , and other commercial establishments. Because it is not as straightforward as residential energy. business energy contracts typically offer different pricing structures, tariff options, and services designed to meet the demands of businesses while still optimising cost-effectiveness and operational efficiency.
Benefits of Business Energy When considering business energy deals, it’s essential to weigh the potential benefits they offer, so we have highlighted a few of our favourites below:
The most important consideration for most businesses is cost , and business energy can provide substantial cost savings through reduced energy bills, fixed rate tariffs and by hunting for discounts and incentives that providers may offer, such as for signing up online or for switching from another supplier.
Businesses can use that energy to improve their inefficiency by having a smart meter installed. This device can provide real-time data on energy usage and identify peak periods, enabling businesses to optimise consumption.
In addition, businesses can partner with energy providers that offer green energy options or tariffs with renewable energy sources, enabling businesses to reduce their carbon footprints and align with sustainability values and goals .
If you choose a fixed-rate energy deal, you can feel confident when budgeting and forecasting, allowing you to allocate other resources more effectively. In addition, choosing a business energy provider with excellent customer service will free up your time and resources to focus on running your business.
Disadvantages of Business Energy On the other hand, we must acknowledge that business energy, while essential for powering operations, presents several drawbacks that companies should take into account:
It is pretty volatile, and variable rate plans expose businesses to price fluctuations , which impacts budgets and bottom lines. Energy bills can also present unforeseen expenses as additional charges, such as penalties for exceeding use limits ETC., can occur.
Also, fixed-rate contracts often require businesses to commit for extended periods , which limits their flexibility due to the long-term commitment of these contracts. Energy providers are known to administer early termination fees if businesses wish to end their contracts prematurely.
Business energy is quite different from residential energy and, therefore, has more complex billing structures , which necessitate careful monitoring to avoid errors and to pick up on hidden costs like meter reading fees, which are related to overall expenses.
In addition, while sustainability can be a benefit, it can also be a drawback, as some regions may have limited access to green options or mainly use traditional energy sources , which rely on fossil fuels , contributing to environmental impacts.
Features of Business Energy Business energy differs significantly from domestic energy in several vital aspects, which we think are essential for all businesses to be aware of and consider:
Businesses typically consume much larger volumes of energy than households due to longer operating hours, extensive lighting needs, and powered equipment.
Business energy is purchased in bulk through contracts with commercial suppliers, unlike domestic pay-as-you-go plans, and contract terms for business energy may be slightly different from a typical residential contracts.
Businesses often prioritise energy efficiency to minimise costs, which sometimes involves installing smart meters, or using energy-efficient equipment, and optimising climate control systems.
Many business energy providers offer renewable energy tariffs, allowing businesses to reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to sustainability goals using wind or solar power.
Most business energy contracts do not offer a 14 day cooling period that comes with a residential contract.
How to Choose a Business Energy Provider There are 37 business energy providers currently operating in the UK, each one with different deals, sustainability goals, levels of support and tariff options. So to help you decide which would be best suited to your business, we have compiled a useful checklist to go through when trying to determine which is the right fit for your business needs:
Understand Your Business Needs: lo ok at your past energy bills, identify your peak usage periods (you may be able to get off-peak discounts here), and decide on your contract flexibility based on your energy needs.Research Business Energy Providers: Compare costs, including unit rates, standing charges, and discounts. Look at their green energy options and check various sources for customer service reviews.Contact the Provider and ask Questions: Its always helpful to ask about contract lengths and terms of your potential contract.Make an Informed Decision: Consider all factors, not just price, when choosing a provider, ensuring that the chosen provider aligns with your long-term business goals and values.
How to Manage Business Energy Costs The price of energy varies depending on several factors, such as the type of energy, location, and provider. Prices have also been rapidly increasing, but there are ways to manage these costs. To effectively manage rising energy bills for your business, consider implementing one or some of the following:
Think of ways to implement energy-efficient practices and technologies to reduce overall consumption and lower costs.
Conduct regular energy audits to identify areas for improvement and optimise energy usage.
Negotiate energy contracts with suppliers to secure competitive rates and favourable terms.
Explore options from multiple energy suppliers to compare prices and services.
Consider incorporating renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power to reduce reliance on traditional energy sources and potentially lower costs in the long term.
Implement systems to monitor energy usage in real-time, allowing you to identify and address spikes or inefficiencies promptly.
Encourage employee involvement in energy-saving initiatives and educate them on best practices for energy conservation.
How Much Does Business Energy Cost?
Average Business Size Estimated Annual Usage Estimated Daily Standing Charge Unit Price per KWH Estimated Annual Cost
Micro Business
Up to 5,000kWh
73.1p
25.2p
£2,895
Small Business
5,000-15,000kWh
78p
25.2p
£6,062
Medium Business
15,000-25,000kWh
85.1p
25.2p
£12,636
Large Business
25,000-50,000kWh
112.5p
26p
£14,770
Very Large Businesses
50,000+ kWh
126.2p
25.1p
£20,000+
Bionics’ renewable business energy data indicates that the most cost-effective renewable energy option for businesses is the installation of small-scale wind turbines, starting from £2,000. However, the payback period for this equipment can be as long as 15 years. In contrast, more giant commercial turbines come with a heftier initial price tag of £3.3 million but offer a quicker return on investment, typically within one to five years.
Here’s a breakdown of the average costs for UK businesses transitioning to renewable energy and their respective payback periods:
Type of renewable energy Cost How long it takes to make the money back
Anaerobic digestion
£8,750 per kWth
N/A
Biomass systems
Wil vary depending on boiler size and type of fuel
Five to 12 years
Combined heat and power
£32,500
10.5 years
Geothermal and ground source heat pumps
£11,000 to £15,000
15 years
Hydroelectric power
£4,000-£8,000 per kW of capacity installed.
Seven years (based on an 8kW hydroelectric power plant)
Solar PV panels
Smaller systems – £6,000 to £11,000 Larger systems – <£70,000
Six to 11 years
Solar thermal energy
£3,000 to £5,000
Five years
Wind power
Small turbines – £2,000 to £6,000 Large turbines – <£3.3 million
Small turbines – three to 15 years Large turbines – one to five years
Business Energy Providers UK At a glance, below is a table of the biggest UK business energy providers, their minimum cost per month and their most reputable features:
Provider Known Feature
British Gas Fixed-price commercial gas & electricity tariffs
EDF Fixed-rate tariffs for gas and electricity (up to 3 years)
E.ON Focus on flexible options for larger businesses.
Haven Power (Drax) Commitment to renewable energy solutions
Orsted Focus on renewable energy generation.
Opus Energy Free smart meters with all new customer plans
ScottishPower Largest generator of renewable energy in the UK
Octopus Energy Fixed 12-month tariffs and focus on renewable energy
Utilita Pay As You Go tariffs with free smart energy monitor.
CNG Business Services Specialises in natural gas supply
SSE Offers various brands across the UK with fixed-price options
Love Energy Savings
Our performance rating of Love Energy Savings out of 5 stars:
Our Overall Rating 4.7 out of 5 stars
Pricing
4.8 out of 5 stars
Customer Service & Supplier Reliability
4.8 out of 5 stars
Contract Transparency
4.5 out of 5 stars
Green Energy Options
5 out of 5 stars
Business Account Management
4.1 out of 5 stars
What other people think:
Real Customer Reviews:
Summary:
Love Energy Savings shows exceptional performance in finding competitive prices, green energy options, and clear contracts. Users rate their customer service and supplier reliability very highly. While business account management scores well, there might be some room for improvement to fully match the exceptional performance in other areas.
Positive customer reviews:
Negative customer reviews:
Love Energy Savings : Video from a user’s perspective:
Love Energy Savings : Visual from a user’s perspective:
Love Energy Savings : What sets it apart from its competitors?
Love Energy Savings will help customers find the best business energy, water, insurance and telecoms services, and their expert advisors can help you switch online or over the phone.
Features of Love Energy Savings
Some of the services Love Energy Savings provides Include providing their customers with energy experts who can give support at any time and offer their customers exclusive offers. They do not charge any fees for using their broker service; it is usually built into the energy pricing or the fees paid by the energy supplier that they will switch you to.
They can provide quotes within seconds comparing the best deals on the market for business energy needs. They offer both on-the-phone and online switching and can find no standing charge options.
It will help you search for eco-friendly tariffs and support multiple sites and metering .
Pros and Cons of Love Energy Savings
Love Energy Savings Pros and Cons
Pros Cons
Suitable for any sized business
Offers a range of services
Great Trustpilot reviews
Will help you find the best business energy deal
Dedicated account managers
Some customers complain of cold calling
Our own experience with the pros & cons of Love Energy Savings:
Love Energy offer their customers a refreshing dose of transparency, customer care and convenience – three things which are often overlooked in the energy business. Their mission is to provide fair and transparent services to businesses, offering customers a simplistic and efficient approach to finding the best energy deals.
The evolution of Love Energy Savings over the years:
Improvements:
We love that LES Provide their customers with useful resources to help them understand the confusing industry that is business energy. These guides, alongside the provision of a dedicated account manager who will support their customers by onboarding to ongoing support, help businesses learn about the energy market and how to be more energy efficient.
Issues:
As Love Energy Savings are an energy broker, you will pay for their services through Commission fees; however, these Commission rates are dictated by their fair pricing policy, which leads to rates which are far below the market average for the industry. LES Are also incredibly transparent with their pricing, which we love.
How can I purchase?
Our concluding thoughts of Love Energy Savings:
Love Energy Savings boasts 88% 5-star reviews on their Trustpilot, making it evident to us that their customers truly are at the heart of their purpose. We love that they provide customers with a dedicated account manager and a range of online tools to help their customers track, manage, and review their energy usage and spending. Choosing a business energy provider can be daunting and expensive, but it can be a great comfort and money-saving benefit to use a company such as Love Energy Savings to help you find the best energy tariff.
Fidelity Group
Our performance rating of Fidelity Group out of 5 stars:
Our Overall Rating 4.8 out of 5 stars
Pricing
4.7 out of 5 stars
Customer Service & Supplier Reliability
4.8 out of 5 stars
Contract Transparency
4.8 out of 5 stars
Green Energy Options
4 out of 5 stars
Business Account Management
4.1 out of 5 stars
What other people think:
Real Customer Reviews:
Summary:
While there is limited information available due to their lack of varied online reviews, Fidelity Group only have 2% negative reviews on Trustpilot, an exceptionally low score for any energy supplier. They have clear and transparent pricing, and customers are extremely satisfied with their customer support and reliability. Their green energy options score the lowest in their categories but are still very high!
Positive customer reviews:
Negative customer reviews:
Fidelity Group : Video from a user’s perspective:
Fidelity Group : What sets it apart from its competitors?
Fidelity Group have been operating for over 30 years and has developed the knowledge and skills to help address and advise on a range of optimum solutions for a range of services for businesses (including IoT, connectivity, mobile, VoIP, merchant solutions, billing, payments and cloud hosting).
Features of Fidelity Group
Fidelity Group offers its customers free consultations to help them find the best energy solutions for their business needs. They will review individual requirements, goals, and current challenges to create a bespoke solution that aligns with each customer’s business objectives.
They have a team of experts who will communicate with you throughout the entire lifecycle of your account. They focus on managing business energy contracts, which frees up time.
They can assist in helping customers reduce energy consumption and minimise their carbon footprint, with the ultimate goal of achieving sustainability goals and achieving cost savings.
Pros and Cons of Bus Fidelity Group
Fidelity Group Pros and Cons
Pros Cons
Focus on green solutions
Offer a range of services so you can consolidate your invoices and partnerships
Dedicated account managers
Our own experience with the pros & cons of Fidelity Group:
Our favourite thing about the Fidelity Group is that they prioritise green energy solutions and offer a wide variety of services. These can simplify your business by consolidating bills and partnerships with a single provider (managed by them). They also dedicate account managers to your business, who can walk you through any questions or concerns and handle the complexities of negotiations and contracts on your behalf.
The evolution of Fidelity Group over the years:
Improvements:
If you wanted it to be, Fidelity Group could be a one-stop-shop for your communication and technology needs, which could save an immense amount of resources and time on administration, negotiating, paperwork and contract management. We like that they can offer their customers incredibly bespoke and tailored packages that most of the others reviewed on our list cannot match.
Issues:
The limited online reviews make it difficult to gauge their customer service effectiveness compared to other options.
How can I purchase?
Direct:
Our concluding thoughts on Fidelity Group:
The Fidelity Group provide exceptional customer service and support from the initial consultation right through to ongoing support for their customers. We think their attention to detail and level of care is second to none, and they can save their customers both time and money by handling the intricacies of business energy contracts. They provide a free consultation and work with over 18 energy providers, so they can create a bespoke solution with no initial cost to you. They also help their customers to find sustainable solutions and provide energy-saving tips and alternatives, showing they truly care about green energy options.
Energy Pal
Our performance rating of Energy Pal out of 5 stars:
Overall Rating 4 .7 out of 5 stars
Pricing
4.8 out of 5 stars
Customer Service & Supplier Reliability
4.4 out of 5 stars
Contract Transparency
4.5 out of 5 stars
Green Energy Options
5 out of 5 stars
Business Account Management
4.6 out of 5 stars
What other people think:
Real Customer Reviews:
Summary:
Energy Pal stands out to us for its ability to find business energy suppliers with competitive prices and a strong focus on renewable energy options, scoring top marks in these categories. Their customer service and contract transparency are also very positive. While business account management scores well in our review, it’s slightly lower than the exceptional performance in other areas.
Positive customer reviews:
There were no negative reviews for Energy Pal!
Energy Pal : The design & how it affects users:
Energy Pal assists UK businesses in securing the most value from their energy contracts. Navigating the complexities of business energy by researching different suppliers, products, and tariffs can be daunting.
Energy Pal : What sets it apart from its competitors?
Energy Pal meticulously selects the optimal suppliers, products, and tariffs tailored to your business needs. They alleviate the hassle of managing energy contracts by liaising with both your current and new suppliers and overseeing the entire switching process from start to finish.
Features of Energy Pal
Energy Pal aims to guide their customers on the optimal timing to secure their business energy by continuously monitoring the market, which enables them to purchase energy for their clients at advantageous rates during market lows.
Customers will receive a dedicated account manager and can choose green tariffs which come backed by a ‘Guarantee of Origin’ certificate.
They offer daily management of energy contracts , switches, and queries; you can trust that your business energy needs are expertly managed and cared for.
Forward purchasing provides the advantage of locking in a rate in advance . They assist customers in identifying a fixed-rate tariff , empowering them to mitigate rising costs even before their contract comes up for renewal.
Top of Form
Pros and Cons of Energy Pal
Energy Pal Energy Pros and Cons
Pros Cons
Can handle multiple sites
Contracted with all major energy suppliers (20 in total)
Expert team
Track record of saving customers money
Our own experience with the pros & cons of Energy Pal :
Energy Pal has an incredibly knowledgeable team who have a strong track record of predicting trends and saving their customers huge amounts of money. While we wish they had more of an online presence, they make up for this with their strong green energy options (scoring a perfect 5/5 in our research!)
The evolution of Energy Pal over the years:
Improvements:
The standout feature of Energy Pal is their commitment to green energy products, which are generated from 100% renewable sources and come with a guarantee to prove it. They focus on solutions made through wind, hydro assets and other green renewable sources.
We also like that they can offer forward procurement to their customers (until Dec 2026), which gives budget certainty in an incredibly volatile and fluctuating industry.
Issues:
There really is not much bad to say about Energy Pal, they are a team of experts who truly care about their customers bottom line, and sustainable energy solutions. We think the only big improvement that could be made is to encourage more customers to write honest reviews, so potential customers can feel confident when choosing their services.
How can I purchase?
Direct:
Our concluding thoughts of Energy Pal :
Energy Pal is 100% impartial and is not tied to any preferred suppliers, so customers can be sure they will always get the best deal with them. Their commitment to monitoring the ever-changing energy market ensures that you purchase energy at the opportune time, which is crucial for maintaining price stability. We think they are an excellent choice for any sized business that cares about aligning themselves with partnerships that share a strong sustainability focus and care about reducing their carbon footprint whilst making impressive savings.
E.On
E.On Our performance rating of E.On out of 5 stars:
Our Overall Rating 4.4 out of 5 stars
Pricing
4.2 out of 5 stars
Customer Service & Supplier Reliability
4.4 out of 5 stars
Contract Transparency
4.5 out of 5 stars
Green Energy Options
4.7 out of 5 stars
Business Account Management
4.1 out of 5 stars
What other people think:
Summary:
E.ON appears to be a well-rounded business energy provider, performing well across most categories according to our research and customer reviews. They excel in securing competitive prices, offering a variety of green energy options, and ensuring clear contract transparency. Customer service, supplier reliability, and business account management also receive positive marks, making them a solid contender as a potential business energy provider.
Positive customer reviews:
Negative customer reviews:
E.On : Video from a user’s perspective:
E.On : Visual from a user’s perspective:
E.On: What sets it apart from its competitors?
The fact that E.On Next offers 100% renewable energy at no extra cost for any fixed tariff is the biggest drawcard for the company in our opinion.
Features of E.On Next
E.ON Next prides itself on offering bespoke tariffs tailored to meet the specific needs of different businesses, catering to unique energy consumption patterns. If you fix your tariff, they promise 100% renewable energy.
E.ON Next also provides flexible contract options , which allow businesses to adjust their plans according to evolving energy requirements. They also offer business energy plans that leverage renewable sources like wind or solar power. These plans enable businesses to contribute to sustainability goals and enhance their brand image.
E.ON Next also provides online account management tools , which allow businesses to access energy bills and consumption data, manage accounts, and view payment information.
Pros and Cons of E.On Next
E.On Next Energy Pros and Cons
Pros Cons
Track Record of Renewable Energy Investment
Customers appreciate E.ON Next for its straightforward and easy-to-understand billing process, ensuring transparency and clarity in financial transactions.
Very highly rated app (4.8 stars)
While E.ON Next excels in renewable energy initiatives, some customers find its tariffs less competitive in terms of value for money than other providers.
E.ON Next faces challenges with above-average complaint numbers, which indicate areas where improvements in customer service and satisfaction may be necessary.
Our own experience with the pros & cons of E.On :
The evolution of E.On over the years:
E.On receives consistently low customer reviews, which lets down its incredible dedication to renewable energy, which can be seen through its initiatives and published success stories. We do like that although they receive a high number ofc complaints, they seem dedicated to resolving them, which gives us hope that they can boost their customer review scores in the future.
Improvements:
E.On business customers are very satisfied with the transparency of their bills. However, we think the standout feature is their commitment to renewable energy.
Issues:
While E.On has a strong focus on renewable energy, and customers are pretty dissatisfied with their overall value for money (scoring only 20% on an Expert Reviews poll) and below-average customer service. They also receive an above-average number of customer complaints (according to Ofgem), receiving 1,712 in the third quarter of 2023 (the industry average was 1,578).
How can I purchase?
Direct:
Reseller
Our concluding thoughts of E.On :
Founded in the UK as Powergen in 1989, E.ON adopted its current name following its acquisition by the German company E.ON in 2002. Already a significant player in the energy sector, it further solidified its position by acquiring Npower in November 2019. Despite its significant market presence, and strong commitment to sustainable energy solutions, E.ON Next has pretty low customer reviews. However, it excels in bill accuracy and responsiveness to customer queries. Although it receives a notable number of complaints, it promptly resolves them, which gives us hope for a better future for E.On next.
SSE
Our performance rating of SSE out of 5 stars:
Our Overall Rating 4 out of 5 stars
Pricing
3.9 out of 5 stars
Customer Service & Supplier Reliability
3 out of 5 stars
Contract Transparency
3 out of 5 stars
Green Energy Options
5 out of 5 stars
Business Account Management
4 out of 5 stars
What other people think:
Real Customer Reviews:
Summary:
SSE Business Energy shows a mixed performance across categories from our research. While they offer competitive pricing, strong green energy options, and clear contracts, customer service reviews tend to be more mixed than their competitors. Their business account management features also score slightly lower than some others from our list.
Positive customer reviews:
Negative customer reviews:
SSE : Video from a user’s perspective:
SSE : Visual from a user’s perspective:
SSE: What sets it apart from its competitors?
SSE stand out from the other providers on our list because all of their 100% renewable electricity is sourced from their own UK wind and hydro assets.
Features of SSE
SSE provides both fixed-rate and variable-rate plan s for gas and electricity. Fixed rates ensure predictability and budget certainty over the contract term (typically 1-3 years), while variable rates may offer flexibility with potential cost fluctuations.
They offer contracts that cater to businesses of various sizes (mainly aimed at small-medium sized), with options for shorter lengths to accommodate evolving energy needs.
SSE prioritises renewable energy, with most fixed-price plans offering 100% renewable electricity sourced from their UK wind and hydro assets. They also provide green gas options or carbon offsetting solutions to reduce environmental impact.
They offer businesses access to infrastructure specialists who can build a portfolio of energy assets personalised to any business.
Pros and Cons of SSE
SSE Pros and Cons
Pros Cons
Diverse Tariff Options
UK-based support team
100% renewable energy backed by EcoAct
Flexible Payment Methods
Renewable Electricity
Limited Customer Service Hours
Our own experience with the pros & cons of SSE :
SSE stand out for their renewable business energy, as renewable electricity comes as standard in all fixed plans, with a range of options for larger businesses on flexible contracts. This can future-proof your business as renewable energy is only going to become more important as we collectively move towards net-zero.
The evolution of SSE over the years:
Improvements:
SSE offer business customers money back for on-site energy generation, which means you can make money on your business energy. They can also fix wholesale energy prices for up to 5 years, which is one of the best on the market. Their fixed rates are also protected from 6 months, to up to 4 years.
Issues:
It is really hard to get a comprehensive overview of SSE’s customer reviews as they have sold their residential energy to Ovo, and most of their reviews outside of Trustpilot are for residential customers/complaints from before this time. We think that actually, these should be taken with a grain of salt, and it is best to speak to current business customers for a more recent reflection of them as a company, as their renewable energy sources are an attractive way to reduce the carbon footprint of your business.
How can I purchase?
Direct:
Or via a reseller:
Our concluding thoughts of SSE :
SSE Energy Solutions serves over 500,000 businesses across Great Britain, offering both fixed-price and flexible energy plans tailored to various business sizes. All fixed plans include 100% renewable electricity, reflecting SSE’s status as a leading renewable energy generator in the UK and Ireland. With a range of tariffs, businesses from SMEs to large corporations can find suitable options, including variable and deemed contracts. SSE provides different meter options, including standard, smart, and multi-site meters, accommodating diverse business needs. Additionally, SSE offers broadband services alongside energy solutions so customers can consolidate their bills.
EDF
Our performance rating of EDF out of 5 stars:
Our Overall Rating 4.1 out of 5 stars
Pricing
3.9 out of 5 stars
Customer Service & Supplier Reliability
4.3 out of 5 stars
Contract Transparency
4.2 out of 5 stars
Green Energy Options
4.4 out of 5 stars
Business Account Management
4.2 out of 5 stars
What other people think:
Real Customer Reviews:
Summary: EDF appears to be a decent choice for business energy. They offer competitive pricing (though not necessarily the cheapest), a focus on green energy options, and clear contracts. Customer service reviews are generally positive, and business account management features are functional. However, some competitors might have a slight edge in terms of pricing.
Positive customer reviews:
Negative customer reviews:
EDF: Video from a user’s perspective:
EDF: The design & how it affects users:
The EDF My Account and App are useful tools for customers to manage their business energy online and is well reviewed by customers.
EDF : Visual from a user’s perspective:
EDF : What sets it apart from its competitors?
Aside from offering standard business energy, EDF offer businesses ways to save on business energy through advice, energy consumption monitoring, and business renovations.
Features of EDF Energy
EDF offers fixed-rate plans for gas and electricity , ensuring stability and protection against market fluctuations over the contract term. They have 3 different business tariffs (fixed for business, fixed for business online, and freedom for business), and offer flexible contract lengths.
This range of business energy plans is tailored to different consumption levels and industry requirements, ensuring suitability for various businesses.
Acknowledging sustainability demands, EDF offers business plans utilising renewable sources like wind or solar power, with potential options for Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) to offset carbon footprints.
Business customers will also benefit from dedicated account managers for personalised support and assistance.
EDF also offers online tools allowing businesses to access bills, monitor energy usage, manage accounts, and potentially track carbon footprints . Lastly, they can provide businesses with energy audits to help businesses optimise efficiency and identify improvement areas.
Pros and Cons of EDF Energy
EDF Energy Pros and Cons
Pros Cons
Excellent live chat support available
Value for money is decent
Resolves around 60% of complaints within the same or next working day
70% of electricity generated from renewable sources
Access to MyAccount and App 24/7
Offers a 7% discount for direct debit payments
Longer wait times for customer service via phone
Higher complaint levels compared to other Big Six firms in 2018
Variable tariffs may be more costly than fixed ones
Scores poorly on Trustpilot ratings
Our own experience with the pros & cons of EDF:
We love that EDF aims to generate zero-carbon electricity from wind and solar energy to cut carbon emissions in the coming years. However, we think EDF is more suitable for medium—and larger-sized businesses than small businesses. They have a great app that is easy to use, and their account managers are helpful and knowledgeable for their business users.
The evolution of EDF over the years:
Improvements:
EDF has introduced a live chat feature that provides customers with almost instant communication and issue resolution and is highly regarded by their customers. Their dedicated business account managers, as well as their My Account and app, give business customers comprehensive support options.
Issues:
The reason we think EDF is only suitable for larger-sized businesses is that they are 100% renewable energy, and 0 carbon tariffs are only available for larger businesses, and we think in this day and age where there’s such a strong focus on sustainable solutions, this is not enough.
How can I purchase?
Direct:
Or via a reseller:
Our concluding thoughts of EDF:
As per EDF’s criteria, SMEs spend less than £30,000 annually on energy, while larger enterprises exceed this threshold. EDF offers tailored contracts for larger businesses alongside features like round-the-clock live chat support, online management tools, and dedicated phone support for business clients. EDF Energy is considered a mid-range business energy supplier, with average pricing and a three-star customer satisfaction rating. While not the cheapest option, its established presence and loyal customer base reflect its expertise in supplying business energy. EDF’s reputation and market popularity underscores its reliability in the industry.
Scottish Power Our performance rating of Scottish Power out of 5 stars:
Our Overall Rating 4 out of 5 stars
Pricing
3.8 out of 5 stars
Customer Service & Supplier Reliability
4.2 out of 5 stars
Contract Transparency
4.1 out of 5 stars
Green Energy Options
4.3 out of 5 stars
Business Account Management
4 out of 5 stars
What other people think:
Real Customer Reviews:
Summary:
Positive customer reviews:
Negative customer reviews:
Scottish Power : Video from a user’s perspective:
Scottish Power : Visual from a user’s perspective:
Scottish Power: What sets it apart from its competitors?
All of Scottish Powers’ business energy tariffs offer competitive pricing and 100% verified renewable energy generated from its own sources, which are based in the UK and backed by REGOs verified by independent auditors and sustainability experts. All of its energy is fully compliant with GHG Protocol Scope 2.
Features of Scottish Power
Scottish Power prioritises renewable energy, with most business tariffs offering 100% renewable electricity sourced from their UK wind farms.
While focusing on renewable electricity, they may also provide green gas options or carbon offsetting solutions to reduce environmental impact.
They offer fixed-rate and flexible contracts for gas and electricity, and these rates ensure budget predictability, while flexible contracts offer potential savings with market fluctuations.
Scottish Power doesn’t charge exit fees for business customers, providing flexibility if business energy needs change.
They also encourage smart meter installation for real-time energy usage data, enabling businesses to optimise costs and reduce consumption.
Pros and Cons of Scottish Power
Scottish Business Energy Pros and Cons
Pros
Cons
Generates 100% renewable electricity.
Reports below-average complaint numbers
Suitable for all sized businesses.
Slow resolution of complaints.
Our own experience with the pros & cons of Scottish Power :
We love that, unlike EDF, Scottish Energy provide all businesses with renewable energy as standard, no matter the size. They encourage the use of smart meters, which can save money in the long run. It is hard to differentiate business reviews with residential, so we recommend calling them or talking to current customers for a more realistic overview of their business reviews.
The evolution of Scottish Power over the years:
Improvements:
To keep up with the evolving industry, Scottish Power now offers a wide range of fully funded EV chargers for businesses. These chargers meet comprehensive health and safety standards and can be installed anywhere in the UK. They can also help you add value to your business by installing solar panels, which can offer very attractive payback periods.
Issues:
Customers are not very happy with how long it takes to contact their support team if things go wrong, especially when it comes to seeking clarity on bills and statements.
How can I purchase?
Direct:
Or via a reseller:
Our concluding thoughts of Scottish Power :
Scottish Power, renowned for its green energy initiatives, offers a variety of eco-friendly tariffs, including fixed-rate and variable options. While fixed rates provide stability, variable rates fluctuate with market forces. Despite notable progress and service expansion, customer reviews on service quality vary. The automated telephone service receives mixed feedback, with some finding it user-friendly and others deeming it complicated.
British Gas
Our performance rating of British Gas out of 5 stars:
Our Overall Rating 4 .2 out of 5 stars
Pricing
3.8 out of 5 stars
Customer Service & Supplier Reliability
4.1 out of 5 stars
Contract Transparency
4 out of 5 stars
Green Energy Options
4.1 out of 5 stars
Business Account Management
4.3 out of 5 stars
What other people think:
Real Customer Reviews:
Summary:
Positive customer reviews:
Negative customer reviews:
British Gas : Video from a user’s perspective:
British Gas : Visual from a user’s perspective:
British Gas: What sets it apart from its competitors?
British Gas business customers can choose from fixed-rate, 30-day rolling, or half-hourly meter tariffs, and larger businesses can opt for a dedicated renewable energy tariff.
Features of British Gas
Fixed-price commercial Gas & Electricity Tariffs for 1-3 years.
British Gas offers dedicated business account managers and online tools for efficient management and can switch customers in as little as 21 days.
They can create tailored options to suit various consumption levels and, for larger companies, include green energy choices.
Boiler & Heating Maintenance and Smart Meter Installation are available for enhanced efficiency.
Businesses will receive a dedicated account manager, and if they pay by DD, can save up to 7% on energy bills.
Pros and Cons of British Gas
British Gas Pros and Cons
Pros Cons
Offers fixed tariffs with 100% renewable electricity.
Parent company invests in renewable generation.
Useful app and online dashboard
Mediocre customer service and value
Higher than average complaints
Renewable energy tariffs only available to larger businesses
Our own experience with the pros & cons of British Gas :
British Gas is one of the largest suppliers of business energy in the UK, with over 350,000 business customers. While they offer a great range of tariffs and flexible contract lengths, we are disappointed that they only offer renewable energy solutions to larger companies – in this day and age, this should be standard.
The evolution of British Gas over the years:
Improvements:
British Gas offers a ‘Lite Energy Service’ aimed entirely at small businesses, and it comes with a free smart meter. Although cheaper, it is entirely online, so it may lack some of the benefits of a dedicated account manager that come with the higher tariffs.
Issues:
While British Gas encourage the installation and use of smart meters, often including them as part of their deals – they use third-party installation companies and have numerous complaints about these not being fitted properly, if at all, by existing customers.
How can I purchase?
Direct:
Or via a reseller:
Our concluding thoughts of British Gas :
British Gas, the dominant energy supplier in Great Britain, plays a significant role, providing 20% of the nation’s electricity and 28% of its gas. While its market share has slightly increased recently, it has diminished over the years. Notably, British Gas absorbed customers from defunct suppliers, such as Together Energy , in January 2022. Presently serving 5 million domestic electricity and 5.8 million gas customers, British Gas was originally part of the “Big Six ” but is now categorised as a large legacy supplier by Ofgem, constituting 71% of the market. Despite offering some tariffs with 100% renewable electricity and its parent company, Centrica , investing in renewable generation, British Gas doesn’t fare as well in customer service and value for money as other energy providers on our list.
Octopus
Our performance rating of Octopus out of 5 stars:
Our Overall Rating 4.3 out of 5 stars
Pricing
4.3 out of 5 stars
Customer Service & Supplier Reliability
4.6 out of 5 stars
Contract Transparency
4 out of 5 stars
Green Energy Options
5 out of 5 stars
Business Account Management
4 out of 5 stars
What other people think:
Real Customer Reviews:
Summary:
Positive customer reviews:
Negative customer reviews:
Octopus : Video from a user’s perspective:
Octopus : Visual from a user’s perspective:
Octopus : What sets it apart from its competitors?
Octopus have by far the best reviews of any of the big energy providers, with a strong focus on renewable energy, it is no wonder they have the second largest customer based out of the UK energy providers.
Features of Octopus Energy
Octopus Business Energy offers renewable electricity sourced from solar, wind, and hydro power across all business tariffs, this is our most loved feature of Octopus.
In addition. businesses can opt for green gas or carbon offsetting solutions to minimise environmental impact. You can also choose from fixed-rate tariffs for predictability or shorter contract lengths for flexibility.
They have innovative tariff rewards, such as off-peak energy usage which promotes efficiency and cost savings.
Octopus also actively promotes smart meters to optimise consumption and reduce costs
Pros and Cons of Octopus Energy
Octopus Business Energy Pros and Cons
Pros Cons
24/7 Emergency Customer Service
Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)
Flexible Payment Options
Smart Meter Installation
Our own experience with the pros & cons of Octopus:
We have used the Octopus app and find it incredibly straightforward and helpful. It gives insight into billing and usage and handy energy-saving tips. They are one of the greenest energy suppliers on our list, and they have made a pretty substantial investment into smart meters. All of this, combined with their additional options (such as EV charging), makes them a commendable choice for sustainability-conscious businesses.
The evolution of Octopus over the years:
Improvements:
Octopus has stepped up the standard regarding money-saving options and features. With their Shape Shifters features, you can unlock up to 21 hours of cheaper electricity daily by shifting usage away from peak hours. They will also help you earn money back from solar panels, and give you discounts for sharing the electricity you generate across multiple sites. Businesses can also choose which renewable generators their energy comes from – keeping its customers in control.
Issues:
Octopus have the highest score on Which? Out of the leading energy suppliers, however, these reviews are primarily residential-focused, and we would like to see some more reviews from business customers. They are also not the cheapest option but sit comfortably in the middle of the big providers.
How can I purchase Octopus?
Direct:
Or via a reseller:
Our concluding thoughts of Octopus:
Octopus Energy boasts an impressive customer rating of 4.8 stars out of 5 on Trustpilot, derived from over 171,000 reviews. They are taking on the big 6 and winning – with good reason. Customers laud their efficient and friendly customer service, although some reported issues with overcharging or communication lapses (primarily from residential users). Octopus prioritises customer satisfaction through digital tools and traditional support channels, including a user-friendly smartphone app for account management. With 100% renewable electricity, innovative solutions like Agile, and flexible contracts, Octopus Business Energy stands out as a top choice for businesses prioritising sustainability and innovation. We think there is no reason in this day and age not to go with a provider that at least offers the option of 100% renewable energy, and there is a good reason Octopus are the second biggest energy supplier in the UK now – they offer their customers the choice between various renewable energy sources.
Business Energy FAQS How Do I Find An Energy Supplier For My Business?
You can use the Energy Network Association search tool to find your network operator by postcode.
Can I Change My Business Energy Supplier?
Yes, if you have been put on a default energy contract or a deemed energy contract (i.e. one that you have not chosen), you may switch providers. Otherwise, you can wait until your current contract ends or pay to end it early.
How Much is the Business Energy Discount?
Firstly, this discount should be automatically applied, so there is no need to apply. The lowest rate you can be discounted to is 10.70p per kWh of gas and 30.20p per kWh of electricity.
What is the Benefit of Comparing Business Energy Quotes?
Comparing business energy quotes online lets you decide which supplier best meets your company’s requirements. All that’s required is basic information about your business and current supplier, and then you can instantly compare quotes.
Should I Switch to a Fixed-Price Gas Supplier?
Switching to a fixed-price gas supplier can save you from unexpected fees that could accumulate on your bill over time. For instance, if your company’s metre still needs to be connected to the grid, they may charge extra for this service.
Should I Choose A Green Energy Supplier?
Recently, many energy suppliers have begun transitioning towards greener power sources and want to assist businesses in reaching their sustainability objectives as part of their journey. With the global community becoming more aware of the necessity to reduce carbon footprints, it’s essential that businesses can source their energy from a company which can meet these requirements.
How Long Does it Take to Switch Energy Providers?
If you are considering switching your business energy supplier, be aware of the process and time it may take before you can move on to a new deal. On average, this step typically takes up to 28 days before you can move on to another supplier.
Should I Research Energy Suppliers?
Finding the ideal supplier for your business requires understanding what you require from an energy provider and then shopping around to find the most competitive price. Investing time into research and finding the ideal deal will give you peace of mind that you are making an informed decision that benefits you and your enterprise.
How Can I Make My Business More Eco-Friendly
Finding a better deal on business electricity is the first step toward making your operation more eco-friendly and reducing its carbon footprint. At the same time, it can be an enormous cost-saving opportunity for your company.
What is the Most Popular Business Energy Contract?
Fixed rates are the most popular choice for businesses. With this plan, you know your electricity and gas costs for up to four years ahead. The only disadvantage to this approach is that if energy prices decrease, you won’t benefit from those reductions.
Do I Need to Display an EPC?
You must display an EPC by fixing it to your commercial building if these apply: the total useful floor area is over 500 square metres, the building is frequently visited by the public or one has been provided for the building due to sale, renovation or rent.
Should I Fix Business Energy Prices?
As prices are predicted to keep rising, there is no benefit in remaining on a variable rate. Instead, consider looking for a contract when energy prices are at their lowest in the year.
Have Business Energy Prices Gone Up?
Due to the lack of a commercial cap, prices have increased dramatically in recent times. Suppliers have increased out-of-contract gas rates by an average of 180%, and out-of-contract electricity rates by an average of 130% since August 2021
Do Small Businesses Get Help With Energy Bills?
The current Energy Bill Relief Scheme announced in September has now finished.
How Much Should An EPC Cost?
The cost of an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC ) can vary depending on several factors, including the location, size, type of property, and the service provider you choose. However, in the UK, the average cost of an EPC typically ranges from £60 to £120 for residential properties.
For commercial properties, the cost can be higher due to the complexity and size of the building. Commercial EPCs may range from £150 to £500 or more, depending on the size and complexity of the property.
Who is Responsible for a Commercial EPC?
The Landlord or Seller is responsible for ensuring a valid and accurate EPC is in place before advertising or leasing a commercial property.
What is a Letter of Authority?
An LOA is an agreement you sign that authorises a third party to contact energy suppliers and negotiate new energy contracts for your business. Most business owners don’t have enough time in their schedule to conduct these negotiations and comparisons themselves. Therefore, hiring a third party to complete this process on your behalf is usually a good idea.
Does the Price Cap Affect Business Energy?
Unfortunately, there is no price cap on business energy.
James Ward is CEO and founder of CompareYourBusinessCosts.co.uk, a website that won the Prestigious ‘Website of the Year’ only in its second year of operations in 2015. The website has grown organically since then offering comparisons on over 20 different products including insurance, energy, telecoms, card machines, coffee machines and much more. James has a range of interests including horse racing, skiing, rugby and boxing. He splits his time between home family life, friends, exercise and socialising.
Co Authors : Hi, I’m Ally Cox, one of the leading Copywriter/Bloggers at CompareYourBusinessCosts.co.uk, a platform renowned for its in-depth analysis and comprehensive comparisons of business services. With over a decade of experience in the industry, I bring a wealth of expertise in areas such as leased lines, VoIP, business energy and office solutions, HR solutions, accounting, and payroll services, among others.
My journey in the industry began over 10 years ago, and my extensive knowledge enables me to provide invaluable insights to our users and customers. Prior to joining CompareYourBusinessCosts, I’ve been involved in various business ventures, gaining hands-on experience in HR and copywriting across a multitude of different sectors, gaining valuable knowledge about everything from clocking in systems to card machines, EPOS systems, payroll services, and so much more.
My mission is to simplify the often-complex buying process for businesses, helping them streamline their product and service comparisons effectively. By leveraging the expertise I’ve acquired over the years, I aim to assist businesses in making informed decisions that enhance their efficiency and bottom line.
