Business Electricity Comparison, Made Simple

As a guide, average business electricity unit rates sit around 24p to 30p per kWh in 2026, with micro and small businesses usually paying a little more per unit than larger ones. Rates move with the wholesale market, so the quickest way to see your price is to compare with your postcode.

A fixed-rate tariff locks in your unit rate and standing charge for the contract term, protecting you from price rises and making budgeting simple. With the market calmer but still volatile, many businesses are choosing to lock in. We can show you fixed deals from across our panel.

The unit price of business electricity is often lower than domestic thanks to higher consumption, but businesses pay 20% VAT (versus 5% for homes) and the Climate Change Levy, and are not covered by the domestic price cap. That can make overall bills higher, which is why comparing matters.

Most businesses pay the standard 20% VAT, added automatically by your supplier. Charities, non-profits and very low-usage sites (under 1,000 kWh a month) may qualify for the reduced 5% rate. Your supplier can provide a VAT declaration form.

Your MPAN (Meter Point Administration Number), sometimes called the “supply number” or “S number”, uniquely identifies your electricity supply. You will find it on a recent electricity bill. Having it to hand gives the most accurate quote, but if you cannot find it, just enter your postcode and our engine can usually locate it.

A half-hourly meter records your electricity use every 30 minutes and sends readings automatically to your supplier. Larger sites with higher demand are required to have one. HH data gives very accurate billing and lets suppliers offer tailored rates based on your actual usage profile.

Several things shape your rate: wholesale electricity prices, your location, your annual consumption and business size, your meter type, and your contract length. Larger users usually secure lower unit rates. The only way to see your actual rate is to run a live comparison.

Deemed rates apply when you occupy new premises without agreeing a contract, and out-of-contract rates apply when your fixed deal ends and you have not renewed. Both are among the most expensive tariffs available, often 40% to 60% more than a negotiated deal, so it pays to switch promptly.

Leaving a contract early usually means a hefty early termination fee, so it is rarely worthwhile. The better route is to secure a new deal up to 12 months before your contract ends, ready to start when the current one finishes. We will track that renewal window for you.

Yes. Businesses with several premises can switch and consolidate their electricity onto one account, even where contracts currently end on different dates. A multi-site arrangement makes renewals and billing much easier to manage. Our team can set this up for you.

You will not lose supply. Ofgem appoints a new supplier to take over your account, and you simply wait to be contacted. Take a meter reading and avoid switching during the process. Note that larger businesses are not covered by the domestic safety net, so any credit balance is at the new supplier’s discretion.

Yes. Many suppliers offer 100% renewable business electricity backed by REGO certificates, often at competitive rates. A green tariff can support your sustainability goals and strengthen tenders. We can show you the renewable options from across our panel when you compare.

Once your new contract is confirmed, a switch typically completes within a few weeks, with no interruption to your supply at any point. The National Grid handles the transition, and our team manages the paperwork and keeps you updated on progress.

Most business tariffs charge the same unit rate around the clock. Economy 7 and Economy 10 tariffs offer cheaper off-peak rates, usually overnight, which can suit businesses that use a lot of power at night, such as bakeries or late-opening venues.

It depends on your usage. A no or low standing charge tariff often carries a higher unit rate, which can cost more for medium and high-usage businesses, while low-usage sites may benefit. Always compare the total annual cost, not just one figure in isolation.

You are usually classed as a micro business if you employ fewer than 10 people with turnover under €2 million, or use less than 100,000 kWh of electricity a year. Micro businesses get extra protections, including clearer renewal notices.

Not usually. Renewable business electricity tariffs are now often priced in line with standard ones, and some suppliers provide 100% renewable power as standard, so going green rarely costs more.