Many of the world’s businesses have increased their efforts to decarbonise, but that doesn’t mean that gas isn’t still a huge part of the energy economy. In fact, UK industries were estimated to have used well over 8,000 tonnes of oil equivalent in gas in 2022 alone. For many businesses, especially those in the food and beverage industry, finding the best business gas rates is essential to effective budgeting.
It’s easy to end up with a business gas quote that isn’t right for your needs if you don’t do your due diligence. This piece digs into the steps every business owner should take when seeking out business gas suppliers, so you can feel confident in comparison and assured when eventually signing a contract.
Step 1 | Determine your needs
Finding the best business gas supplier for your needs should start with looking into the past. This means checking in on your historical gas bills and interpreting what they mean for your requirements. Figures like your average monthy and annual gas consumption in kWh will give you more to offer potential suppliers when they build your quote.
It’s also important to check your seasonal usage patterns throughout the year – gas consumption for things like heating will likely vary significantly throughout the seasons, especially with consideration to workplace regulatory requirements. Finally, make sure you’re aware of your meter type and are willing to change if it provides access to better tariffs.
You should also consider elements like:
- What industry you operate in (food & beverage, mineral products, mechanical engineering all use more gas in general)
- Higher consumption allowing access to discounts or more competitive rates with certain suppliers
- How wholesale energy prices are being impacted by the effects of the Energy Crisis at the time
Step 2 | Compare business gas suppliers online
After you’ve determined what you need from your supplier, it’s time to see what different business gas suppliers have to offer.
Remember that it’s not always about finding the cheapest business gas supplier – it’s important to consider other elements, like tariffs terms and customer service reputation. If you’re curious about a supplier, get in touch with them directly – this will give a better idea if they’re suited to your enterprise.
Step 3 | Consider tariff options
Tariff options will make a huge difference to your business gas quote, with the structure of a tariff determining how you pay over the lifetime of a contract. Rollover tariffs are the default for if you don’t find something new, with their automatic charges often being unnecessarily high.
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- Fixed-rate tariffs – prices that don’t change during the contract lifetime
- Variable-rate tariffs – costs that ebb and flow with wholesale gas prices
- Green tariffs – matched rates for green energy consumption/project support
- Economy 7/10 tariffs – generally cheaper as focused on off-peak consumption
The best gas suppliers will offer multiple tariff options and connect you with the right one for you.
Things to keep in mind
These are the basic steps for finding your ideal supplier, however, there are some elements that you need to keep in mind throughout every stage of the process.
- Whether the contract length suits your needs and market predictions
- How the customer service marks up against your expectations
- Make sure to read the fine print of any contract before making commitments
- Keep track of unit rates by kWH
- Whether there are any termination fees
- Any standing charges or daily fixed costs
Now you have some idea of how to find the best business gas rates, there’s nothing left to do but get online and start getting a quote from multiple gas suppliers!
