This week saw the Competitions and Markets Authority report back on the fact customers are ‘paying too much’ for their energy bills. One of their strong recommendations was for consumers to help make the market be more competitive through switching suppliers on a regular basis. Although 75 per cent of businesses know that there are savings to be made from switching, there are a range of perceived barriers that stop them doing so. Here’s some switching tips to help from the Utilitywise team:
Have a ‘shop around’ frame of mind
Businesses always do better when they look around for the best deals in all aspects of their day-to-day activity. However, this inquisitive and tenacious nature to get the best deals still needs to be applied more widely to utilities. Often thought of as complex and time-consuming, businesses need to understand that like many other suppliers and products, energy and utilities can be flexible too.
Get to grips with the terminology
20 per cent of small business owners in the UK often struggle to read their bills correctly, with 60% unable to identify the meaning of E (estimated) and A (actual) on their paperwork. Bills can contain a lot of jargon, but once you understand what it all means, you’ll be able to have a sense of what you are paying for and keep watch for any errors.
Understand how much energy you use
Many people find it difficult to think about energy in a tangible manner – it is just there. But depending on your business operation, headcount and premises, we all use varying amounts at different parts of the day. There are many elements we can’t change – we need the lights on and technology to work – but by understanding the amount of energy you use as a business, you’ll then be able to go some way to reducing it.
Know the facts
Switching won’t mean you lose your supply for a period of time, will have to complete reams of paperwork or cost you money up front, all common misconceptions for some business people. Instead, it is a very straightforward and simple process, when you are working with experts that can guide and advise you.
Take the hassle out by working with experts
Running and growing a successful business takes time and effort, and although many business people feel like switching is the most sensible approach, very few feel they have the time to do it. Working with an expert that you trust to get the best deals on your behalf is invaluable and we would recommend taking the hassle out and going with this approach.
Businesses can learn about the energy options open to them through switching and the benefits this can bring by visiting utilitywise.com
Andrew Richardson, Deputy CEO of Utilitywise