Business Energy Multisite Meters
Having a larger number of meters will result in having extra contracts that must be renewed and renegotiated every few years. This can be time consuming for business managers and owners and you may end up paying more for your energy.
This is where multi-site business energy deals provide an excellent solution, allowing you to integrate your whole energy supply within one easy to manage package. You will only have to deal with one supplier and set a reminder for one renewal date in the company calendar. This option can really save you time and money on your business energy bills.
What is a multi-site meter?
A multi-site meter allows businesses that have more than one building to manage their energy through one account. For example, offices, warehouses and factories are just some of the business location types that can be included.
Having a multi-site meter makes it easier to switch your business energy, as all of your premises’ can make the transition on the same date. Businesses can use their buying power with multi-site meters to negotiate better rates too.
Advantages of multi-site meters
Improved management over multiple sites – You can better manage your energy usage with a multi-site meter, regardless of how many locations you have. You will have one renewal date and you are less likely to be moved over to an expensive rollover tariff.
Improved management for large single sites – A multi-site meter will cover all of your business premises. You will no longer need multiple meters to cover larger locations.
The possibility of big discounts – Companies can leverage greater buying power through the use of a multi-site meter. This gives you access to energy prices on the wholesale market.
In essence, a multi-site meter works just like any other meter. The key difference is that you will be tracking usage across all of your buildings simultaneously.
Does my business need multi-site metering?
A multi-site metering deal could help you save time and money if you manage more than one site within the UK. By combining your plan into one streamlined package, a supplier may decide to give you a discount.
To explain this further, it would be both practical and convenient to have one single supplier, contract and bill. You will only have to add one renewal date into your calendar too. Things are not often this uncomplicated in the business world.
Utility Saving Expert can help you compare and switch to a new deal through our free to use impartial switching service. We are experts in multi-meter and multi-site energy management.
By comparing business electricity and gas and combining them under a single plan, you will be saving time and money in the years to come. You no longer have to worry about different renewal dates, and you will also reduce your chances of being pushed over to a standardised rollover plan that is typically more expensive.
On top of this, a multi-site energy contract ensures you are procuring energy in bulk. This gives you room to negotiate better terms with your provider at the time of renewal.
Types of multi-site energy contract
Every business will have its own distinct requirements, providers will offer various types of energy contracts allowing you to choose the most suitable option for your company. The five main types of business energy contracts are as follows:
Fixed term contract
You will always pay the same amount per unit (kWh) on a fixed term contract. Although your bill won’t necessarily be the same each month as it will still be calculated based on the amount of energy you consume.
Variable-rate contract
On a variable rate contract the unit rate can rise and fall for the duration of your contract through market fluctuations. The unit rate is the amount you pay per kWh of gas and electricity you use. This contract type has slightly more risk, but you can also take advantage if the price of a unit rate decreases.
28-day contract
Businesses that haven’t made the switch since the energy market was deregulated will be on a 28-day rolling contract. The price you pay for a unit rate can increase or decrease on this contract type.
Rollover contract
Those that have not negotiated a new deal when their existing contract comes to an end will be moved over to a rollover contract by their supplier. The provider will sign you up for another year, often with their most expensive unit rates. You’ll want to avoid this type of contract as soon as possible.
A fixed term deal can help your firm save money on business energy, no matter what its size or the industry you operate in. This is usually one of the quickest ways to cut your expenditure. Learn more about understanding your business energy bill in our helpful guide.
How to switch to a multi-site energy contract
It can be time consuming comparing one business quote after the next and liaising with each supplier, this is where Utility Saving Expert provides the perfect solution. We can compare multi-site energy contracts across the industry and help you find the best tariff that is right for your business.
To get started, use our online comparison tool or give us a call today. It will be useful to have the following information to hand before searching for a multi-site energy contract:
- Your most recent energy bill
- Business registration information including address
- Your MPAN and MPRN numbers from your bill or meter
- The end date of your current contract
- The date your switching window opens
Hopefully by now you have got a better understanding on how multi-site meters work, as well as the various ways your business can benefit from this smart technology. If you have more than one premises and you’re looking to cut costs, it’s definitely a good idea to explore how multi-site energy meters can help you better manage gas and electricity usage, bills and contract renewal dates. You will be able to focus your efforts on running your business and spend less time on administrative tasks.