What are business energy deemed rates?

Business energy deemed rates are default unit rates and standing charges applied when your business uses energy without agreeing a fixed contract (for example, after moving into a new premises, when a contract ends, or if a supplier can’t match your meter to an agreed tariff). Deemed rates are often higher than contracted rates, so arranging a new deal quickly can help reduce costs.

Why might my business be on deemed rates in 2026?

Common reasons include: you’ve moved into a new property and didn’t set up a contract; your previous contract ended and rolled onto a deemed or out-of-contract tariff; or the supplier doesn’t have a valid contract linked to your meter details. Checking your latest bill usually confirms whether you’re on deemed rates.

How do I switch from deemed rates to a fixed business energy contract?

To switch, gather key details (business name, address, MPAN/MPRN, and a recent bill), compare available business tariffs, and agree a new contract. Energy Plus can help you compare options and arrange the switch so you can move off deemed rates and secure a clearer price for your business.

Can I switch away from deemed rates if I’m not the current account holder?

Yes, in many cases. If you’ve taken over a premises, you can usually set up a new business energy account and agree a contract for the meter. You may need proof of occupancy (for example, a lease start date) and the meter details from a recent bill or meter reading.

How long does it take to switch business energy supplier from deemed rates?

Switch times vary by supplier and meter type, but many business energy switches complete within a few weeks. You’ll keep receiving energy during the process, and your existing supplier continues to supply until the switch completes. If you want to reduce time on deemed rates, it’s best to start the comparison and contract process as soon as possible.

Will switching stop my business supply or require new equipment?

No. Switching supplier should not interrupt your gas or electricity supply, and it typically doesn’t require new equipment. Your meter usually stays the same (unless there’s a separate upgrade agreed, such as a smart meter installation).

What information do I need to get an accurate quote to replace deemed rates?

For an accurate business energy quote, it helps to have: your business address; MPAN (electricity) and/or MPRN (gas); current supplier; estimated annual consumption (kWh) or a recent bill; and the contract end date if you’re currently in contract. If you don’t have all details, Energy Plus can often help identify the meter information.

Can I leave deemed rates immediately, and are there exit fees?

Deemed and out-of-contract tariffs often have more flexibility than fixed contracts, and many businesses can move to a new deal without exit fees. However, rules can vary by supplier and situation, so checking your bill or confirming with your current supplier is recommended before switching.

Is it cheaper to fix a rate instead of staying on deemed rates?

Often, yes. Deemed rates can be higher than negotiated fixed business tariffs. Fixing can also improve budgeting by giving you a clearer unit rate and standing charge for the contract term. Your savings depend on your usage, meter type, location, and the deals available at the time you switch.

How can Energy Plus help my business switch from deemed rates in 2026?

Energy Plus can help you compare business energy options, explain available contract terms, and manage the switching process so you can move off deemed rates and secure a tariff better suited to your business. Start by visiting https://www.energyplus.co.uk/business-energy/ to request a quote or explore your options.

Business energy deemed rates 2026: how to switch

On deemed rates because you moved premises, rolled onto out-of-contract prices, or never agreed a new tariff? Compare whole-of-market business energy deals for 2026 and switch to a contract that fits your usage and risk appetite.

Find out what deemed rates are and why they’re usually higher than contracted rates
See how to switch in 2026 (including notice periods, meter types and timelines)
Get whole-of-market quotes for electricity, gas, or both—no obligation

Get business energy quotes What are deemed rates?

Free comparison service. Switching is subject to eligibility, supplier checks, and contract terms. We’ll tell you if you’re on deemed prices and the quickest route to a contracted tariff.

Check if you’re on deemed rates and switch to a contract

If your business is paying deemed electricity or gas rates, you’re typically on a supplier’s out-of-contract prices. In 2026, that can mean paying more than necessary—especially if you’ve:

moved into new premises and started using energy before agreeing a tariff
let a fixed contract end without renewing
taken over a site and the previous occupant’s contract cannot transfer
had a supplier change due to landlord / managing agent arrangements

Good to know: Deemed rates aren’t the same as domestic “standard variable” tariffs. For business supply, deemed terms apply when you’re consuming energy without an agreed contract. The fastest way off deemed rates is usually to move onto a contracted business tariff with clear unit rates and standing charges.

What you’ll need to get accurate 2026 quotes

Postcode and business address
MPAN (electricity) / MPRN (gas) if available
Estimated annual usage (kWh) or recent bills
Preferred contract length (e.g. 12, 24, 36 months)

Get whole-of-market business energy prices

Complete the form and we’ll check current options for your meter and usage, including routes to leave deemed rates.

First name

Surname

Telephone

Business postcode

See switching steps

By submitting, you agree we can contact you about business energy quotes. Your details are used to provide comparisons and support switching.

On a tight deadline? If you’ve just moved in or your contract has ended, we can help prioritise options that get you off deemed rates as quickly as possible, subject to supplier processes.

Why switching off deemed rates matters in 2026

Lower, clearer pricing

Deemed business rates can be significantly higher and may change under supplier terms. A contracted tariff provides defined unit rates and standing charges for the agreed term.

Better budget control

In 2026, managing energy costs is a key part of cash flow planning. Switching can reduce bill volatility and make forecasting easier, especially for multi-site businesses.

Avoid admin headaches

We help you identify your current supply status (deemed, rollover, out-of-contract) and the correct route to switch based on meter type and supplier rules.

Whole-of-market comparison: EnergyPlus compares a broad panel of UK business energy suppliers and tariffs (subject to availability by meter, region and credit checks) to find competitive contracted options for 2026.

Business deemed rates explained (UK, 2026)

A deemed contract is a set of terms a supplier applies when your business is consuming electricity or gas without having actively agreed a contract. This often happens after a move-in, a change of occupier, or when a fixed term ends and no renewal is in place.

Deemed vs fixed business contract

Feature	Deemed rates	Fixed business contract
How it starts	Automatic when you use energy without agreeing terms	You choose a tariff and sign up
Typical pricing	Often higher / less competitive	Usually lower, more predictable
Certainty	Terms set by supplier; may vary	Locked pricing for agreed term (subject to contract)
Exit / switching	Usually possible with notice (check supplier terms)	May have end dates, notice windows, and termination fees
Best for	Short-term stopgap only	Budgeting and rate certainty

How to spot you’re on deemed rates

your bill mentions “deemed”, “out of contract” or “default rates”
you didn’t sign a contract after moving in, but you’re receiving bills
unit rates seem unusually high compared with current market quotes
your supplier cannot provide a clear contract end date

Not sure? Submit the form above and we’ll help identify your supply status and the fastest switching route based on your site and meter details.

Does a price cap apply?

UK energy price cap rules apply to domestic supply. Business energy is priced differently. Deemed business rates are set by suppliers under deemed terms and industry rules—so comparing and switching is often the most practical way to reduce costs.

How to switch from business deemed rates in 2026

Switching off deemed rates is usually straightforward, but the exact process depends on whether you’re on electricity, gas, or both—and what kind of meter and contract status you have. Use the steps below to avoid delays.

Confirm your current situation
Check a recent bill for “deemed” or “out of contract”. If you’ve just moved in, collect the opening meter readings and your move-in date.
Gather identifiers (if available)
For electricity, locate your MPAN. For gas, your MPRN. If you don’t have them, we can often still start the comparison using your address and postcode.
Compare 2026 contract options
Decide whether you want a fixed term for budget certainty, or a shorter term to re-price sooner. We’ll show options by term length and supplier.
Check notice periods and constraints
Deemed rates often allow switching with notice, but rules vary by supplier and meter type. If you’re actually on a rollover or fixed contract, there may be an end date or termination fee.
Submit the switch
Once you choose an offer, the new supplier manages the switching process. Your supply stays live—there’s no interruption in electricity or gas.
Send final readings and confirm billing
Provide readings when requested so your final bill is accurate and your new account opens correctly.

Tip for multi-site businesses: If you have multiple MPANs/MPRNs, consolidate your site list first. We can quote per site and help you align end dates for easier renewals.

Switching timelines, notice periods, and what can slow things down

In 2026, most business energy switches are completed through standard industry processes. However, timeframes can vary depending on supplier workflows, meter configuration, and whether there are any data mismatches.

Typical switching considerations

Notice: Deemed terms often include a notice period before you can leave—this varies by supplier.
Debt flags: Outstanding balances can delay or prevent a switch until resolved.
Address/data mismatches: Incorrect business name/site address can cause objections.
Change of tenancy: If you’ve recently moved in, evidence of occupancy date may be needed.
Meter works: Upgrades, new connections, or meter exchanges can change the timeline.

How EnergyPlus helps reduce delays

Checks whether you’re truly on deemed terms vs rollover/out-of-contract
Confirms the correct MPAN/MPRN and registered address details
Explains supplier requirements for microbusinesses and larger sites
Supports you through acceptance, objections and read disputes

Important: If you are in a fixed contract, switching early can trigger termination charges. If you’re on deemed rates, there are usually no “fixed term” exit fees—but always confirm the supplier’s deemed terms.

Meter types and how they affect deemed rates and switching

Not all business meters are treated the same. Your meter type affects quoting, data requirements and which suppliers can offer contracts.

Smart / AMR meters

Half-hourly or automated readings can lead to more accurate billing and can open up additional tariff structures.

Confirm whether it’s HH (half-hourly) settled
Ensure reads are flowing to avoid estimated bills

Non-HH business meters

Many SMEs are on non-half-hourly meters. Quotes are often based on annual kWh and profile class.

Have a recent bill to confirm usage
Consider term length to manage price risk

Multi-rate / complex supplies

Economy-style and multi-rate setups, or larger supplies, may need more detailed analysis.

Provide day/night or rate split if known
Check for capacity charges (where applicable)

Landlord/managed buildings: If you’re in a serviced office or landlord supply arrangement, you may not be able to switch the underlying meter. We can still help you understand whether you’re paying deemed rates and what options exist under your tenancy agreement.

Common mistakes when trying to leave deemed business energy rates

1) Assuming you’re on deemed when you’re not

Some businesses are on rollover or out-of-contract rates under a previous agreement. The switching route (and any fees) can differ. Always confirm your contract status first.

2) Missing a dispute or occupancy update

If the supplier’s records still show the previous tenant, billing and switching can stall. Provide your move-in date and opening reads to correct the account.

3) Not aligning your usage info

Quotes are only as good as the inputs. If your kWh is outdated, you can end up on an unsuitable tariff. Use the most recent bills or realistic annual estimates.

4) Ignoring credit and payment terms

Some suppliers require DD, deposits, or specific credit outcomes. We can highlight suppliers and terms that are likely to fit your business profile.

Business deemed rates 2026: FAQs

Can I switch immediately if I’m on deemed rates?

Often you can switch by giving the required notice under your supplier’s deemed terms. The exact notice period and process vary by supplier and meter type. We’ll help you confirm what applies at your site.

Will switching affect my energy supply?

No—your electricity/gas doesn’t turn off when you switch supplier. The change is administrative and handled through industry systems. You’ll usually just see a final bill from the old supplier and a new account opened.

What if I’ve just moved into premises in 2026?

You may be placed on deemed rates from the move-in date until you agree a contract. Take photos of opening meter readings on day one and keep a copy of your tenancy/start date—this helps fix any billing issues and speeds up switching.

Is deemed the same as a rollover contract?

Not necessarily. A rollover can occur when a fixed contract ends and renews onto default terms. Deemed supply can apply when there’s no agreed contract at all (commonly with change of occupier). The difference matters for notice and fees.

Can a landlord prevent my business from switching?

If you’re the named occupier on the meter, you can usually choose your supplier. If energy is resold via a landlord or you’re in a serviced arrangement, switching may not be possible at the meter level. We’ll help you understand your set-up.

What contract length is best in 2026?

It depends on your tolerance for price movement and how predictable your usage is. Many businesses compare 12, 24 and 36 months side-by-side. We’ll show the trade-offs and help you choose a practical option.

Trust and reassurance

Whole-of-market approach

We compare across a broad UK supplier panel to find competitive business electricity and gas rates—based on your meter type, usage and required start date.

Clear switching support

We help you understand deemed terms, notice periods and objections, and what to do if your account details need updating after a move-in or tenancy change.

Business-first service

This page is about business energy only—SMEs, multi-site operators and commercial premises—so the guidance is tailored to non-domestic supply realities.

What businesses say

“We’d moved unit and didn’t realise we were on deemed rates. EnergyPlus explained the situation clearly and helped us get a fixed deal in place quickly.”
Operations Manager, light industrial (England)

“Helpful comparison—especially around notice and the paperwork. It saved us time and got us off out-of-contract pricing.”
Director, retail business (Scotland)

“We manage multiple sites. The team helped us organise MPANs and align start dates for smoother renewals.”
Facilities lead, multi-site organisation (Wales)

Ready to switch from deemed business energy rates in 2026?

Submit your details to compare whole-of-market business electricity and gas deals. We’ll confirm whether you’re on deemed terms and guide you through the quickest switching route.

Electricity, gas or dual fuel
SMEs and multi-site
Support with move-ins and tenancy changes

Get quotes now

Use the form above to start. Prefer to read first? Jump back to switching steps or deemed rates explained.

Start my comparison Read FAQs

Quotes depend on meter data, consumption and supplier acceptance. We’ll help you understand your options before you commit.

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Updated on 10 Jan 2026