Top 5 Questions to Ask Before Switching Energy Suppliers

Changing your energy provider is one of the few things you can do to immediately reduce your costs, lessen your carbon footprint, and even enhance your overall customer experience.

Although we don’t switch energy providers frequently, when the time comes, it can be like navigating a labyrinth of price comparisons, obscure claims, and unsettled tariffs. It makes sense that even when better options are available, many customers choose to remain with the same supplier for years.

Here is What You Need to do.

Making the right decision doesn’t require you to be an expert; all you need to do is ask the right questions and conduct thorough research.

Therefore, before you press the “switch now” button or answer the phone, take a moment to ask yourself these five crucial yet practical questions. They will assist you in making an informed decision that aligns with your values, lifestyle, and budget.

1. For what am I actually paying?

Are you aware of what you currently pay for? The mysterious nature of energy bills is well known. Unit rates, exit fees, VAT, and standing charges all add up to a monthly expense that frequently leaves you wondering why it is so high.

Examine your current bill carefully before switching, and thoroughly review:

What is your unit rate, mentioned in pence per kWh?
What is the daily amount of your standing charge?
Are you on a fixed energy tariff or a flexible energy tariff?
Are you using any add-ons or discounts?

You will be in a better position to compare like for like once you are aware of what you are currently paying for. Your savings could quickly vanish if the standing charge is extremely high, even though a lower unit rate might seem alluring.

You’re probably on the default or standard variable tariff, which is typically the most costly, if you haven’t looked at your bill in more than a year. Look at your bills and decide what you can do to save on energy costs.

2. Is the Energy Provider Offering More Than Just Affordable Prices?

Cheaper doesn’t always equate to better, but it’s easy to be influenced by the lowest quote.

Ponder and ask yourself what additional benefits your energy provider brings to the table, and does it provide:

Clear and transparent billing?
Green tariff options or support for smart meters?
Outstanding customer service and timely response?
Is green energy their top priority?
Energy tracking tools or apps that are easy to use?

If it means avoiding long waits or billing errors, a slightly higher tariff from a dependable, responsive energy supplier might be well worth it. You want the best business energy supplier who values you more than just your account number.

Some energy suppliers offer tools to track usage in real time, which makes it simpler to identify and address energy waste. Over time, that type of service may save you more money than a slight price reduction.

3. Do They Support Green Energy Transition?

The phrase “100% green electricity” is commonly used, but it doesn’t always mean what you might think. Even if they aren’t producing renewable energy themselves, business electricity suppliers can still call their electricity “green” thanks to the REGO (Renewable Energy Guarantee of Origin) program. Some just continue to use fossil fuels to generate their electricity while purchasing certificates from green generators.

For this reason, it is worthwhile to ask:

Does their energy come from renewable sources, or is it merely certified?
Do they fund hydro, solar, or wind projects in the UK?
Do they provide carbon-neutral gas or offset gas emissions?

Seek out energy providers in your area who produce or directly assist in the production of renewable energy, rather than those who purchase green credentials after the fact.

4. What Happens If Something Goes Wrong?

It’s simple to ignore until you’re in the middle of a problem, but it’s important to understand how your new supplier handles problems. Take time and think:

If I need help, how can I contact my energy supplier, by phone, email, or live chat?
Do they address my concerns promptly?
Have they received good feedback from customers on websites or digital review platforms like Trustpilot?
Are they compliant with energy regulations?

Everybody has experienced grievances, whether it’s a billing error or a smart meter that has ceased to report. In any such situation, a supplier who listens, clarifies, and fixes the problem without making you frustrated is the human element that counts.

5. Are There Any Strings Attached?

Always read the fine print and stay updated with every aspect during your contract with your energy provider. Although it’s not the most thrilling aspect of switching, it can prevent a nasty surprise down the road. Ask questions like:

Is there a fee to leave?
What is the duration of your energy contract?
Will I switch to a regular tariff at the end of the fixed term?
Are there any penalties or discounts for early payments?
Do I have to manually submit my meter readings?

Concluding Remarks

Energy supplier switching doesn’t have to be difficult, but it should be done carefully. You can change the topic of discussion from merely saving money to choosing a better option for your needs, your values, and even your community by posing the appropriate questions.

It’s more than just picking a new supplier. Who gets to power your business, and daily life is up to you. Attention should be paid to that choice.

Therefore, take a moment to consider such questions above the next time a headline rate or a quick switch offer tempts you. Because the most astute consumers in the energy sector are making thoughtful, purposeful decisions rather than merely focusing on price.