Switching business energy: unit rates and standing charges

Every business energy quote comes down to two numbers: the unit rate (pence per kWh you use) and the standing charge (pence per day just to be connected).

A low unit rate with a high standing charge can cost more than the reverse if you're a low-usage site — and vice versa for heavy users. That's why comparing headline unit rates alone is misleading.

Tips for switching business electricity and gas:

• Business energy contracts are fixed term (usually 12–36 months) and you generally can't leave early without a fee, so time your switch near renewal.
• There's no cooling-off period on business energy — check the rate carefully before you agree.
• Half-hourly (HH) meters and larger sites are quoted differently to standard meters.
• Green tariffs back your electricity with renewable generation, often at little or no premium.

AllSwitched folds both the unit rate and the standing charge into one true annual cost, so you compare like for like.