Types of business tariff

There are typically three types of electricity tariffs for small businesses and not-for-profit organisations. Each tariff requires a specific type of meter.

  • Popular with one flat rate (Code T031)
  • Day & night with two different unit rates, a cheaper one during nights (Codes T032 or T034); and 
  • Weekender with two different unit rates, a cheaper one during nights and weekends (Code T033).

Every business is different, so you should make sure that your electricity tariff works for you. For example, if your business operates Monday-Friday 9am – 5pm, the Popular tariff may work best for you, whereas if you own a bar or restaurant, the Weekender tariff may help you save money. In some cases, you may be able to negotiate a price with your supplier.

Types of business prices

Many suppliers offer fixed and variable rate contracts.

Fixed energy prices

A fixed energy tariff will guarantee the unit rate and standing charge that you pay for the duration of your contract. Benefits of having a fixed price means you know exactly what you will be charged and if electricity prices rise, your rate won’t be impacted. However, if wholesale prices decrease, you’ll be locked into paying a higher price. Some suppliers hold the right to change your price under certain conditions, so be aware of this when signing up for a new contract.

Variable energy prices 

A variable tariff means the unit rate and standing charge can go up or down. If wholesale prices fluctuate, the rate that you pay will fluctuate also. This may make it more difficult to forecast how much your energy bills will be in the future, but you may also be able to avail of any decreases in unit price.

Switching supplier, tariff or billing method

By switching energy supplier, you could save money or receive better customer service. Small businesses and not-for-profit organisations in Northern Ireland can choose from a number of electricity and gas suppliers, depending on the location of your business.

Before you can consider switching, check how much notice you need to provide before you can leave your existing contract. Always be aware of when your contract us due to end so you can start shopping around or negotiate a better deal with your current supplier. There is no onus on the supplier to tell you that your current contract has expired and if that happens you will no longer be receiving the discount you had agreed when you agreed that contract. 

Use our electricity price comparison tool

To take the stress out of switching, use can use our Electricity Price Comparison tool our our Gas Price Comparison tool. In the tools, you can provide us with some information on your current usage, tariff and method of payment and we carry out a comparison of the gas or electricity suppliers in your area. If possible, have a copy of your electricity or natural gas bill at hand. 

The prices displayed are available to small business, charity or organisations using up to 50,000kWh of electricity or up to 73,200kWh of natural gas per year.

Suppliers can change their prices any time, so you should contact your preferred supplier soon after you use our comparison tool to agree the chosen tariff.

If you would like any further information or advice on switching energy supplier, please call us on 0800 121 6022 and we can help.

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Switch and save

Use our business price comparison tool

See if you could save money on your business electricity bill by switching supplier, tariff or billing method.