Autumn Energy Tips for UK Businesses 

As the leaves turn and temperatures drop, autumn is the perfect time for UK businesses to review their energy contracts and costs.

Energy Solicitors have compiled 10 essential tips to help your business cut costs and avoid energy-related legal issues. 

Whether you are reviewing contracts, switching suppliers or dealing with mis-sold agreements, our insights are designed to protect your business.

1. Review Your Contracts Thoroughly

Hidden fees, automatic rollover clauses and restrictive terms can cost your business thousands. Before renewal, read every detail of your contract and confirm that pricing, duration and exit terms align with your needs. If anything seems unclear, seek expert advice.

2. Demand Full Broker Transparency

Under UK regulations, brokers must disclose their commission. If this wasn’t made clear, you could be paying inflated rates. Always ask for written confirmation of broker fees and compare deals independently to ensure fairness.

3. Audit Your Energy Bills Regularly

Billing errors are common, incorrect rates, miscalculated standing charges or VAT mistakes can add up. Compare invoices against your contract, verify meter readings and question any unexplained charges. Overpayments can often be reclaimed.

4. Avoid Verbal Agreements

Verbal promises are difficult to enforce and leave you exposed to disputes. Always insist on a written contract that clearly states pricing, terms and responsibilities. Documentation is your strongest protection.

5. Scrutinise Group Purchasing Schemes

Group buying can reduce costs, but some schemes hide broker fees or impose restrictive conditions. Review the structure carefully, confirm transparency and calculate whether the savings outweigh potential risks.

6. Plan Ahead for Renewals

Missing a renewal deadline can trigger automatic rollovers into higher rates or restrictive terms. Set calendar reminders and review your contract well in advance to avoid costly surprises.

7. Challenge Unfair Exit Fees

Suppliers often impose steep penalties for early termination. If these fees seem excessive or weren’t disclosed upfront, they may be legally challengeable. Always check your contract before making changes.

8. Monitor Usage and Standing Charges

Standing charges and consumption trends can reveal inefficiencies or hidden costs. Track your energy usage regularly and question unusually high daily fees, especially if your business operates seasonally or has multiple meters.

9. Understand Tariffs and Levies

Fixed tariffs offer stability, while variable rates may save money short-term but carry risk during market volatility. Also, check eligibility for exemptions on environmental levies like the Climate Change Levy to avoid unnecessary costs.

10. Seek Expert Legal Advice Early

Don’t wait until a dispute arises. Proactive legal support can help you recover hidden commissions, challenge overcharging and prevent costly mistakes. 

Remember: A contact review now could save your business thousands later.

Need Help With an Energy Dispute?

Energy Solicitors have already helped hundreds of UK businesses recover hidden commissions, challenge overcharging and resolve complex energy disputes. Contact us today for expert legal advice.