Business Gas Quotes — Compare UK Suppliers

How business gas contracts work

Business gas contracts differ significantly from domestic supply. They are typically longer, carry different pricing structures, and include specific terms around renewal and termination that are worth understanding before you compare.

Contract length

Business gas contracts usually run for one to five years. Longer contracts may offer different unit rates compared to shorter ones. Consider your business plans and how long you want to commit to a fixed rate when choosing a contract length.

Fixed and flexible purchasing

Most small to medium businesses use fixed-price contracts, where the unit rate is agreed at the point of signing and held for the duration. Larger businesses sometimes use flexible or structured purchasing arrangements, where gas is bought in tranches as market prices move. Fixed contracts provide certainty; flexible arrangements carry more complexity and market risk.

Notice periods and renewal

Most business gas contracts require written notice of between 30 and 90 days before the contract end date. If you do not act within this window, you may face an automatic rollover or move onto your supplier’s out-of-contract rates. Check your contract for the exact notice requirements.

Out-of-contract rates

Out-of-contract rates (sometimes called deemed rates) apply when a contract expires without a new deal in place. These rates are set by your current supplier and are typically significantly higher than contracted rates. Getting quotes before your contract ends is the most effective way to avoid them.

Business gas meter types

The type of gas meter your business has affects which tariffs are available and how your consumption is measured:

• Standard (non-daily metered) – suitable for most small to medium businesses. Usage is estimated or read periodically rather than daily.
• Daily metered (DM) – for businesses with higher gas consumption. Usage is read daily, providing more accurate billing and potentially access to different pricing structures.
• Interruptible supply – for very large consumers who agree their supply can be reduced during periods of peak national demand, in exchange for different rates.

What makes up your business gas bill

Your business gas costs are influenced by several components beyond just the unit rate:

• Unit rate – the price per kWh of gas consumed, typically fixed for the contract duration.
• Standing charge – a fixed daily charge for maintaining your supply connection.
• Meter operator charges – fees for maintaining and reading your meter.
• Climate Change Levy (CCL) – a government environmental tax applied to business gas consumption. The rate is set by HMRC. Some businesses may qualify for an exemption or reduced rate.
• Transportation charges – fees for moving gas through the national and local networks to your premises.

Your MPRN — what it is and where to find it

Your MPRN (Meter Point Reference Number) uniquely identifies your business gas supply. It is not your account number and stays the same regardless of your supplier. You can find it on a recent gas bill or by contacting your current supplier. Having your MPRN available when getting quotes ensures accuracy.

When to start comparing

It is worth getting business gas quotes three to six months before your current contract ends. This gives you time to review what is available, understand the full contract costs, and make a decision without being rushed or defaulting to out-of-contract rates.

Checklist before you compare

• Know your contract end date and required notice period
• Have your MPRN available
• Gather 12 months of consumption data in kWh
• Understand your current unit rate and standing charge
• Compare total contract costs, not just the unit rate
• Check for any additional charges including CCL and meter operator fees
• Read the full contract terms before signing