UK Business Energy Briefing: What to Watch This Autumn
What should UK businesses watch this autumn? We look at electricity data, transparency in energy quotes and three practical checks before winter.
Business energy decisions are about more than finding the lowest unit rate. As autumn begins, changes to electricity data and growing scrutiny of how energy contracts are arranged make it a good time to review your contracts, meters and bills.
Better electricity data is coming into focus
Ofgem is consulting on a Smart Data Repository connected to the move to market-wide half-hourly settlement. Its proposal would make electricity settlement data available to third parties with the customer’s consent. The consultation closes on 19 October 2026. This is a proposal, rather than a new service businesses can use today. Ofgem
For businesses, more useful consumption data could eventually make it easier to understand when energy is used and assess whether a contract suits that pattern. The practical step now is to check that your meter details and consumption records are accurate, especially if you manage several sites.
Ask what is included in an energy quote
Ofgem has also set out good-practice principles for energy brokers and other intermediaries while it develops future regulation. Its focus includes clear information, fair handling of complaints and charges that reflect fair value. These principles are not yet enforceable rules, but they give customers sensible questions to ask today. Ofgem
When comparing offers, ask for the full contract term, standing charges, any additional charges and an explanation of broker remuneration. A low headline unit rate does not, by itself, show the full cost or whether an offer fits your organisation.
Three checks to make before winter
Review renewal dates early. Give yourself time to compare suitable offers before a contract ends.
Check recent bills against your contract. Look at rates, standing charges, meter readings and any pass-through items.
Keep site and meter information together. Accurate MPANs, MPRNs and consumption figures help prevent delays and misleading comparisons.
Ofgem advises businesses to understand the contract type, term, fees and what happens when a contract ends before agreeing to a new supply arrangement. Ofgem
At InEnergy, we help businesses and charities examine the detail behind their electricity, gas and water costs. If you would like a second look at a bill or an upcoming renewal, send us a recent bill and we can discuss the most useful next step.
