Business energy contract rollover rules UK (2025 guide)
Avoid being rolled onto an expensive out-of-contract or automatic rollover deal. Compare whole-of-market business energy options with EnergyPlus and switch at the right time.
- Check when your contract ends and what rollover terms may apply
- Understand notice periods, deemed rates and auto-renewal clauses
- Get UK supplier quotes and lock in a new rate before renewal
Whole-of-market comparison. Switching subject to supplier checks and contract terms. We’ll ask for your current supplier and renewal date to time your quotes.
Business energy contract rollover rules in the UK
A business energy contract rollover is what happens when your fixed-term agreement ends and you do not agree a new deal in time. Depending on your contract and supplier, you could:
- Move onto out-of-contract/deemed rates (often higher and variable).
- Be automatically renewed (an “auto-rollover” or “evergreen” clause), where a new fixed term starts unless you give notice.
The key is understanding your renewal date, your notice period and what your supplier defines as deemed or out-of-contract charges. With EnergyPlus, you can compare whole-of-market business electricity and gas offers and time a switch to avoid being caught by rollover terms.
What counts as a rollover for business energy?
In UK business energy, “rollover” is commonly used to describe either:
- Automatic renewal: your contract renews for a set term (for example 12–36 months) if you don’t give notice.
- Default supply pricing: you fall onto a variable default rate after your fixed term ends (sometimes called out-of-contract or deemed pricing).
Important: Business energy rules differ from domestic energy. Protections and switching timelines vary by meter type and business classification. Always check your contract terms and current supplier communications.
Compare business energy before you roll over
Fill in the form and we’ll compare whole-of-market suppliers for your site(s). We’ll aim to time quotes around your renewal window.
Have your bill handy? If you know your MPAN/MPRN and annual usage, we can normally provide sharper pricing and fewer follow-up questions.
The practical rule: don’t let the renewal window pass
Most rollover problems happen because the decision is left too late. Suppliers may require notice before your end date, and some contracts auto-renew for a new fixed term. If you miss the window, you can still switch in many cases—but you could face higher rates or contract restrictions until the supplier allows the change.
Why acting before rollover usually saves money (and hassle)
Avoid deemed / out-of-contract rates
Default rates can be significantly higher than negotiated fixed deals. Securing a new contract before the end date helps you avoid price shocks and unpredictable charges.
Lock in budget certainty
Many businesses prefer fixed unit rates for forecasting. Switching at renewal gives you a cleaner handover and fewer bill corrections.
Keep leverage with suppliers
When you’re inside your renewal window, suppliers compete for your business. After you roll over, you may have less flexibility and fewer options.
Reduce admin time
A planned switch means fewer urgent calls, fewer billing disputes and less time chasing contract details and meter identifiers.
Support multi-site decision making
If you manage multiple meters, aligning renewal dates where possible can simplify procurement and prevent one site slipping onto a rollover rate.
Stay compliant with internal policy
Many businesses need multiple quotes for procurement. A structured renewal process helps you meet internal governance and audit requirements.
Rollover timeline: when to renew your business energy contract
Exact timings vary by supplier and contract, but the workflow below keeps most UK businesses safe from rollover clauses and default rates.
- 8–12 weeks before end date: Find your contract end date, notice period and meter details (MPAN for electricity, MPRN for gas). Start market comparison.
- 6–8 weeks before end date: Request quotes and compare like-for-like (unit rate, standing charge, contract length, pass-through items, payment terms).
- Before your notice deadline: If you plan to leave, give notice correctly (method and recipient as per contract). Keep proof of sending and acknowledgement.
- 2–4 weeks before end date: Confirm the new contract start date aligns with your end date to avoid gaps, overlaps or unexpected deemed charges.
- On supply start: Take meter readings (if required) and check the first bill for correct rates, VAT and CCL treatment.
If you’re already out of contract: you can still compare and switch. Start by checking whether you’re on deemed/out-of-contract rates and whether any termination fees apply.
Quick reference: key terms to check in your contract
If you’re unsure where to find these details, check your welcome pack, contract schedule, renewal letter/email, or the latest bill. You can also ask your current supplier for confirmation in writing.
What happens if a business contract rolls over?
If your fixed term ends and you take no action, you may be placed on a supplier’s default pricing. For many businesses this can mean:
- Higher unit rates and/or standing charges
- Less predictable monthly spend
- More pressure to switch quickly, without time to compare
Can my supplier automatically renew my business energy contract?
Some business energy agreements include an automatic renewal mechanism. Whether it applies depends on your contract type and the exact clause wording.
If you think you’re approaching renewal, the safest approach is to check the notice period and start comparing quotes early. EnergyPlus can help you understand your options and secure a new deal in time.
Common rollover mistakes (and how to avoid them)
Assuming it “just ends”
Many business contracts don’t simply stop. They either continue on a default rate or renew automatically. Always confirm what happens at end of term.
Missing the notice window
Notice must often be provided within a specific timeframe and via the correct route. Send it early and keep evidence.
Comparing the wrong figures
Don’t compare unit rates alone. Standing charges, contract length, payment method and pass-through items can change the true cost.
Forgetting VAT and CCL
Business energy bills include VAT (where applicable) and may include Climate Change Levy (CCL). Make sure quotes are like-for-like.
Not aligning start/end dates
A mismatch can lead to a period on deemed rates or an overlap. Confirm the supply start date with your new supplier.
Leaving multi-site too late
Different sites can have different renewal dates and meters. Build a simple renewal tracker so no location rolls over unnoticed.
Tip: If you don’t know your end date, start with the latest bill and your supplier’s renewal communications. If you fill in the form above, we’ll also help you identify what’s needed to quote accurately.
Who do rollover rules affect? (SMEs, charities, landlords & multi-site)
SMEs and single-site businesses
If you have one electricity meter and/or one gas meter, you’re still at risk of rolling onto deemed rates or auto-renewal terms if you miss the renewal window. The simplest way to protect your costs is to start a comparison early and secure a new fixed contract aligned to your end date.
Multi-site and property portfolios
Different sites can have different contract end dates and supplier arrangements. A single missed renewal can put one location onto expensive default pricing. We can help compare options across multiple meters and plan renewals to reduce admin burden.
Landlords & serviced offices
If you’re responsible for the supply, rollover charges can quickly erode margins—especially during void periods. Make sure the contract holder and supply addresses are correct and renew ahead of end-of-term.
Charities and not-for-profits
Budget predictability is crucial. Rollover onto a higher variable rate can affect service delivery. Comparing suppliers early can help protect funding and forward planning.
Business energy rollover FAQs
Are rollover contracts legal for business energy in the UK?
Businesses can agree to contract terms that include automatic renewal or default pricing at end-of-term. The detail that matters is what you agreed in the contract and whether notice requirements were clearly set out. If you’re unsure, request the contract terms and renewal position from your supplier in writing.
What are deemed rates in business energy?
Deemed rates (also called out-of-contract rates) are default charges applied when you’re supplied without an agreed fixed-term contract. They are usually variable and can be higher than fixed deals. If you’ve rolled onto deemed rates, you can often switch—compare options and move as soon as practical.
How much notice do I need to stop an automatic renewal?
Notice periods vary by supplier and contract, so there isn’t one universal rule. Check your contract schedule and renewal communications, and give notice in the manner required (email address, portal, letter). If you complete the quote form, include your end date if known and we’ll help you plan the switching window.
Can I switch if my business energy contract has already rolled over?
Often yes, but it depends on whether you’re on deemed/out-of-contract pricing or you’ve been auto-renewed into a new fixed term. If you’ve been renewed into a new term, termination fees or restrictions may apply. We’ll help you establish your current position and compare the best available options.
Will switching cause disruption to my supply?
Business energy switching is typically administrative. Your gas and electricity keep flowing through the same network; the change is mainly billing and contract management. Your new supplier will confirm the start date and any meter reading requirements.
What information do I need to compare business energy quotes?
A recent bill helps. Useful details include: supply address and postcode, MPAN (electricity) and/or MPRN (gas), annual consumption (kWh), current supplier, and contract end date. If you don’t have everything, submit what you can—EnergyPlus can still start the comparison.
Still unsure? Go to the quote form and tell us your renewal date (if known). We’ll help you avoid rolling over onto an expensive rate.
Trusted by UK businesses: what customers value
“EnergyPlus explained our renewal window in plain English and helped us avoid being rolled onto a pricey default rate. The quotes were easy to compare.”
“We had multiple sites with different end dates. They helped us map a plan and secure a better fixed deal without disrupting supply.”
“Fast turnaround, no jargon. We understood the standing charges and contract terms before we signed.”
Whole-of-market comparison: we compare a wide panel of UK business energy suppliers and tariffs, and help you choose a contract that fits your renewal date and risk preference.
Procurement-friendly: clear quote breakdowns and support for multi-site switching.
Stop rollover rates—compare business energy today
If your contract end date is approaching (or you think you’ve already rolled over), submit the form and we’ll help you compare whole-of-market options and switch at the right time.
- Electricity, gas and multi-site support
- Clear quote comparisons (unit rates & standing charges)
- Help navigating renewal windows and notice periods
Get quotes in minutes
Prefer to prepare first? Note your renewal date and current supplier, then return to the form for faster quoting.
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