Energy bills are one of the main controllable costs for small businesses, yet many bosses do not consider switching supplier. The Competition & Markets Authority (CMA) found that 45% of start-ups were on suppliers’ most expensive rate. Customers move to this standard variable tariff when their fixed-rate deal ends, unless they choose a new deal or switch to another supplier. The CMA said making it easier to switch could save microbusinesses up to £180m a year. Ofgem advises companies to check when their contracts end and always read renewal letters. “You can normally get a better deal if you negotiate with your existing supplier, rather than accepting the offer in your renewal letter,” said the energy regulator. Squeaky Clean Energy allows SMEs to buy electricity direct from renewable generators. “Suppliers give quotes online if you put in your address and how much energy the business consumes,” he said. A number of price comparison sites aimed at SMEs have sprung up, such as MyUtilityGenius and Energylinx. Both offer quick and impartial comparisons of most suppliers.
Times 24th Sept 2017 read more »
