[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":364},["ShallowReactive",2],{"schema:\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fguides\u002Fbusiness-energy-for-shops\u002F":3},{"elements":4,"system":359},{"post__title":5,"post__summary":9,"post__content":12,"post__author":162,"post__reviewer":234,"publish_date":238,"updated_date":243,"url":245,"seo__meta_title":248,"seo__meta_description":250,"seo__add_no_index_tag":252,"seo__canonical_url":255,"related_articles":257,"categories":261,"subfolder":326,"tags":330,"thumbnail_image":334,"show_on_index_page":342,"hide_author":348,"hide_reviewer":352,"hide_tags":355},{"name":6,"type":7,"value":8},"Title","text","What Is Business Energy For Shops? How To Save Money On Your Bills",{"name":10,"type":7,"value":11},"Summary","From lighting to heating, every business needs energy for day-to-day operations. Learn about business energy for shops and how to reduce your bills with Bionic.",{"images":13,"linkedItemCodenames":20,"linkedItems":34,"links":158,"name":159,"type":160,"value":161},[14],{"description":15,"imageId":16,"url":17,"height":18,"width":19},"An empty isle in a supermarket showing green food cabinets that are brightly lit.","2444e742-f1f5-4686-a2b0-4d6063e5a8dc","https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F564415f7-a61b-45f1-b88a-9113a890e58f\u002FEmpty%2C%20brightly-lit%20aisle%20in%20large%20supermarket.jpg",483,724,[21,22,23,24,25,26,27,28,29,30,31,32,33],"n6645fd98_73db_0106_3ee6_4708f2a1c523","n565bfc43_48bc_018a_d303_c2e98abd1d9a","n1199bb82_f38f_0123_905b_90bba9b1c05c","n7a4e89a9_a693_0161_7dca_6c30ad50e75d","abc54dc6_6ebb_01ea_1cb2_41a9b45994a6","f7a95de1_47bd_01c9_9ce2_9885429aee67","b98f98db_1f36_01b2_2ae9_9dfaad07e90b","n9058b6fa_abe8_01a2_fa65_1fdf768bccc2","abc009b6_8cc2_0114_df05_8df92fce7943","n8485e928_5721_0118_7c27_0cc552131568","n60f36074_a1bc_01af_a36b_1ede17bdcd06","f5a37907_c2ce_01d5_d3f8_f9b7b476a494","n8d3aa1d0_2241_011c_5df0_ce6b912ba49e",[35,50,59,68,77,86,95,104,113,122,131,140,149],{"elements":36,"system":43},{"text":37,"anchor_id":40},{"name":38,"type":7,"value":39},"Text","What is business energy?",{"name":41,"type":7,"value":42},"Anchor ID","what-is-business-energy",{"codename":21,"collection":44,"id":45,"language":44,"lastModified":46,"name":45,"sitemapLocations":47,"type":48,"workflowStep":49,"workflow":49},"default","6645fd98-73db-0106-3ee6-4708f2a1c523","2026-07-21T12:35:57.8286504Z",[],"anchor_tag",null,{"elements":51,"system":56},{"text":52,"anchor_id":54},{"name":38,"type":7,"value":53},"What’s the difference between commercial and domestic energy?",{"name":41,"type":7,"value":55},"whats-the-difference-between-commercial-and-domestic-energy",{"codename":22,"collection":44,"id":57,"language":44,"lastModified":46,"name":57,"sitemapLocations":58,"type":48,"workflowStep":49,"workflow":49},"565bfc43-48bc-018a-d303-c2e98abd1d9a",[],{"elements":60,"system":65},{"text":61,"anchor_id":63},{"name":38,"type":7,"value":62},"How do shops use energy?",{"name":41,"type":7,"value":64},"how-do-shops-use-energy",{"codename":23,"collection":44,"id":66,"language":44,"lastModified":46,"name":66,"sitemapLocations":67,"type":48,"workflowStep":49,"workflow":49},"1199bb82-f38f-0123-905b-90bba9b1c05c",[],{"elements":69,"system":74},{"text":70,"anchor_id":72},{"name":38,"type":7,"value":71},"What is the average energy consumption of a shop?",{"name":41,"type":7,"value":73},"what-is-the-average-energy-consumption-of-a-shop",{"codename":24,"collection":44,"id":75,"language":44,"lastModified":46,"name":75,"sitemapLocations":76,"type":48,"workflowStep":49,"workflow":49},"7a4e89a9-a693-0161-7dca-6c30ad50e75d",[],{"elements":78,"system":83},{"text":79,"anchor_id":81},{"name":38,"type":7,"value":80},"How much energy should your shop use?",{"name":41,"type":7,"value":82},"how-much-energy-should-your-shop-use",{"codename":25,"collection":44,"id":84,"language":44,"lastModified":46,"name":84,"sitemapLocations":85,"type":48,"workflowStep":49,"workflow":49},"abc54dc6-6ebb-01ea-1cb2-41a9b45994a6",[],{"elements":87,"system":92},{"text":88,"anchor_id":90},{"name":38,"type":7,"value":89},"What can affect your shop’s energy prices?",{"name":41,"type":7,"value":91},"what-can-affect-your-shops-energy-prices",{"codename":26,"collection":44,"id":93,"language":44,"lastModified":46,"name":93,"sitemapLocations":94,"type":48,"workflowStep":49,"workflow":49},"f7a95de1-47bd-01c9-9ce2-9885429aee67",[],{"elements":96,"system":101},{"text":97,"anchor_id":99},{"name":38,"type":7,"value":98},"What kind of business energy tariffs are there?",{"name":41,"type":7,"value":100},"what-kind-of-business-energy-tariffs-are-there",{"codename":27,"collection":44,"id":102,"language":44,"lastModified":46,"name":102,"sitemapLocations":103,"type":48,"workflowStep":49,"workflow":49},"b98f98db-1f36-01b2-2ae9-9dfaad07e90b",[],{"elements":105,"system":110},{"text":106,"anchor_id":108},{"name":38,"type":7,"value":107},"How can I effectively monitor my shop's energy consumption?",{"name":41,"type":7,"value":109},"how-to-monitor-shop-energy-usage",{"codename":28,"collection":44,"id":111,"language":44,"lastModified":46,"name":111,"sitemapLocations":112,"type":48,"workflowStep":49,"workflow":49},"9058b6fa-abe8-01a2-fa65-1fdf768bccc2",[],{"elements":114,"system":119},{"text":115,"anchor_id":117},{"name":38,"type":7,"value":116},"How can I reduce energy consumption in my shop?",{"name":41,"type":7,"value":118},"how-can-i-reduce-energy-consumption-in-my-shop",{"codename":29,"collection":44,"id":120,"language":44,"lastModified":46,"name":120,"sitemapLocations":121,"type":48,"workflowStep":49,"workflow":49},"abc009b6-8cc2-0114-df05-8df92fce7943",[],{"elements":123,"system":128},{"text":124,"anchor_id":126},{"name":38,"type":7,"value":125},"Can retail shops utilise renewable energy sources?",{"name":41,"type":7,"value":127},"retail-shops-renewable-energy",{"codename":30,"collection":44,"id":129,"language":44,"lastModified":46,"name":129,"sitemapLocations":130,"type":48,"workflowStep":49,"workflow":49},"8485e928-5721-0118-7c27-0cc552131568",[],{"elements":132,"system":137},{"text":133,"anchor_id":135},{"name":38,"type":7,"value":134},"How can I protect my shop from energy price volatility?",{"name":41,"type":7,"value":136},"protect-shop-from-energy-price-volatiltiy",{"codename":31,"collection":44,"id":138,"language":44,"lastModified":46,"name":138,"sitemapLocations":139,"type":48,"workflowStep":49,"workflow":49},"60f36074-a1bc-01af-a36b-1ede17bdcd06",[],{"elements":141,"system":146},{"text":142,"anchor_id":144},{"name":38,"type":7,"value":143},"Can I save money by switching energy suppliers?",{"name":41,"type":7,"value":145},"can-i-save-money-by-switching-energy-suppliers",{"codename":32,"collection":44,"id":147,"language":44,"lastModified":46,"name":147,"sitemapLocations":148,"type":48,"workflowStep":49,"workflow":49},"f5a37907-c2ce-01d5-d3f8-f9b7b476a494",[],{"elements":150,"system":155},{"text":151,"anchor_id":153},{"name":38,"type":7,"value":152},"How do I switch my business energy supplier?",{"name":41,"type":7,"value":154},"how-do-i-switch-my-business-energy-supplier",{"codename":33,"collection":44,"id":156,"language":44,"lastModified":46,"name":156,"sitemapLocations":157,"type":48,"workflowStep":49,"workflow":49},"8d3aa1d0-2241-011c-5df0-ce6b912ba49e",[],[],"Content","rich_text","\u003Cp>From lighting to heating, shops need lots of power to keep running each day. It’s no surprise then that they can quickly rack up big energy bills to help keep their business running smoothly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But, these bills can quickly burn a hole through your profits if you’re not keeping on top of what exactly you’re being charged for and at what cost. That’s why knowing exactly what business energy is, and how you can find a provider that best suits your shop’s needs, is crucial.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>From working out how much energy your shop uses to finding out what other factors can affect your prices, our handy guide will help you understand your business’s energy needs and how to find the best \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002F\">business energy\u003C\u002Fa> supplier. And don't forget, you'll need insurance to cover any damages or claims. You'll find all you need to know on our \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fshop\u002F\">shop insurance\u003C\u002Fa> page.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cfigure data-asset-id=\"2444e742-f1f5-4686-a2b0-4d6063e5a8dc\" data-image-id=\"2444e742-f1f5-4686-a2b0-4d6063e5a8dc\">\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F564415f7-a61b-45f1-b88a-9113a890e58f\u002FEmpty%2C%20brightly-lit%20aisle%20in%20large%20supermarket.jpg\" data-asset-id=\"2444e742-f1f5-4686-a2b0-4d6063e5a8dc\" data-image-id=\"2444e742-f1f5-4686-a2b0-4d6063e5a8dc\" alt=\"An empty isle in a supermarket showing green food cabinets that are brightly lit.\">\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n6645fd98_73db_0106_3ee6_4708f2a1c523\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>What is business energy?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Every business needs energy to operate. Just like our homes require energy for electricity and heating, businesses must also use energy for lighting, security, operating machinery, and more.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The energy that’s used to power houses and businesses is essentially the same and comes from the same place, but all suppliers will distribute it slightly differently. This is because businesses will tend to consume a lot more than the standard household — resulting in energy distributors charging different rates using commercial energy contracts.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002F\">Learn more about business energy with Bionic.\u003C\u002Fa> \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n565bfc43_48bc_018a_d303_c2e98abd1d9a\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>What’s the difference between commercial and domestic energy?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Put simply: commercial energy is for businesses, while domestic energy is used to power homes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As businesses require a lot more to maintain their day-to-day operations, providers will manage their tariffs differently to household energy. At an initial glance, commercial bills might appear more expensive than domestic ones, but the rates themselves are often cheaper as providers buy energy in bulk. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The extra cost comes from the higher VAT rate; businesses will generally pay 20% VAT on their energy, whereas the household rate is 5%. There might be additional costs too, like the Climate Change Levy — an additional tax charged on non-domestic energy. Your business might be eligible for a reduced VAT rate. To find out more, check out our guide to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fguides\u002Fvat-for-business-energy\u002F\">VAT on business gas and electricity bills\u003C\u002Fa>.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Some other key differences between commercial and domestic energy are:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Contracts are longer — \u003C\u002Fstrong>Commercial contracts can run for up to five years, whereas domestic contracts tend to be yearly. This is due to suppliers buying the energy in larger quantities, which results in lower prices. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>No cooling-off period\u003C\u002Fstrong> — Commercial contracts won’t offer a cooling-off period as the providers will have already forecasted and bought a significant amount of energy which is then supplied to your business. It makes it almost impossible for a company to exit a contract once they’ve signed, which is why it’s so important to make sure that you choose the right deal for your business. If you need help finding the right contract for you, get in touch with the team at \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002F\">Bionic\u003C\u002Fa> today.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Single-fuel only\u003C\u002Fstrong> — Nowadays, households can purchase two different types of energy from the same supplier, but, sadly, that’s not the case for businesses. Commercial customers must obtain separate gas and electricity contracts based on their expected running and operational energy usage. While it can be more hassle to secure two separate contracts, it means that you can use two separate suppliers — so you can more easily search for the best deal for each type of energy.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Tailored quotes — \u003C\u002Fstrong>Domestic energy customers can purchase off-the-shelf tariffs where providers formulate a plan with estimated consumption that’s ready to buy. As no two businesses are the same, this isn’t a viable option for providers. Instead, they must assess each business and create a personalised energy quote that factors in all of a business’s needs, usage, and circumstances.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Negotiation — \u003C\u002Fstrong>As commercial energy contracts are all tailored, businesses can negotiate on price. This isn’t usually the case for domestic customers.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>Read our full guide on the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fguides\u002Fis-business-energy-different-to-household-energy\u002F\">differences between household and business energy\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n1199bb82_f38f_0123_905b_90bba9b1c05c\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>How do shops use energy?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>From small, independent shops to multi-floor department stores, the amount of energy a shop uses will vary based on its size and location. There are a few common ways that shops use energy, which include:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Lighting \u003C\u002Fstrong>— Lighting is one of the main contributors to energy bills. Good lighting can help to make the space safer, encourage customers to stay for longer, and even contribute to purchases. \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fguides\u002Fenergy-efficient-lighting-saving-your-business-money\u002F\" title=\"How energy efficient lighting can save your business money\">Energy-efficient lighting\u003C\u002Fa> could help lower costs whilst keeping the same aesthetic. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Heating — \u003C\u002Fstrong>No customer will want to stay and shop in a cold store, which is why heating can play a big part in creating a comfortable environment that helps to retain shoppers. But, be careful, you don’t want it to be too warm!\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Fridges and freezers \u003C\u002Fstrong>— If you rely on a fridge or freezer to keep your food and drinks fresh, refrigeration electrical costs can quickly add up. Keeping your produce at a safe temperature is essential for your business and is something that can’t be freely tampered with. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Electrical appliances — \u003C\u002Fstrong>From tills to computers, there are lots of different appliances that can contribute to your energy bill. Keep these maintained regularly for optimal electrical usage and encourage your staff to unplug all appliances at the end of the day.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n7a4e89a9_a693_0161_7dca_6c30ad50e75d\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>What is the average energy consumption of a shop?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>It’s very difficult to give an average as to how much energy a shop should consume because all shops have different running costs. It’ll also depend on their size, location, opening hours, and the type of business you run.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The best way to gauge the average energy consumption of a shop is by understanding the size of your business.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"abc54dc6_6ebb_01ea_1cb2_41a9b45994a6\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>How much energy should your shop use?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>By breaking it down into three varying business sizes, it’s easier to give a more accurate figure of how much energy a shop would typically use. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ctable>\u003Ctbody>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>Business size\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>Number of employees\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>Turnover\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>Average yearly electricity usage\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>Average yearly gas usage\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Microbusiness\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Less than 10\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Less than £2 million\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>5,000-15,000 kWh\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>5,000-15,000 kWh\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Small business\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>10-49\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Less than £10 million\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>15,000-25,000 kWh\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>15,000-30,000 kWh\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Medium business\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>50-249\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Less than £50 million\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>25,000-50,000 kWh\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>30,000-65,000 kWh\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n\u003C\u002Ftbody>\u003C\u002Ftable>\n\u003Cp>If you’re looking to find out more about how much energy businesses use, our handy guide to the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fguides\u002Faverage-energy-usage-for-businesses\u002F\">average business energy consumption\u003C\u002Fa> can help. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"f7a95de1_47bd_01c9_9ce2_9885429aee67\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>What can affect your shop’s energy prices?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>As with any form of energy, prices fluctuate constantly. This is because many different factors can drive the cost up or down. These include:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>The weather \u003C\u002Fstrong>—  The weather, or wind, in particular, can have a big impact on how much you pay for your energy. This is due to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fguides\u002Fwhat-is-wind-energy-for-business\u002F\">wind turbines\u003C\u002Fa> accounting for \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.utilityhelpline.co.uk\u002Fnews\u002Fuk-factors-influencing-business-energy-prices\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">17% of the UK’s power\u003C\u002Fa>, a figure which is likely to increase each year as more turbines are being constructed across the country. Wind is not a constant resource, which means that on days when there’s little wind, power stations must use fossil fuels to create energy instead. These fossil fuels, like \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fguides\u002Frenewable-natural-gas\u002F\">natural gas\u003C\u002Fa>, are much more expensive and increase business \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fblog\u002Fnoticed-energy-prices-have-fallen-over-past-few-months\u002F\" title=\"Energy prices have fallen\">energy prices\u003C\u002Fa>. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>An increase in demand — \u003C\u002Fstrong>Supply and demand is the biggest factor that influences the prices of any product or service. In terms of energy, if there is a greater energy demand, it will be seen as a more valuable resource. This can drive prices up. If demand is lower and there are fewer potential customers, the price may dip as it’s not considered to be as valuable.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"b98f98db_1f36_01b2_2ae9_9dfaad07e90b\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>What kind of business energy tariffs are there?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Once you start researching providers and contracts, you’ll soon realise that there are several different \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002F\" title=\"business energy\">business energy\u003C\u002Fa> tariffs to choose from. It can be hard to know which one will be best suited to your shop, so here’s an overview of the main types of tariffs:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Fixed-rate - \u003C\u002Fstrong>Fixed-rate tariffs charge an agreed-upon cost for gas and electricity. They usually last for a set period of time, often between 12 to 18 months. The benefit of fixed-rate tariffs is that you’re guaranteed to pay the same price throughout your contract which can be a win in terms of planning and budgeting.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Variable-rate - \u003C\u002Fstrong>Prices on a variable-rate tariff can change depending on market activity. This often makes them appear as an affordable option upfront, but they may increase further down the line and you could end up paying a lot more if the energy market sees a sharp spike.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Deemed rates - \u003C\u002Fstrong>If you move premises and don't arrange a new contract, you'll be placed on the existing supplier's deemed rates. These are more expensive but you can switch suppliers at any time.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Out-of-contract rates \u003C\u002Fstrong>- If an existing fixed rate tariff ends without you \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fguides\u002Fwhen-to-switch-business-energy-supplier\u002F\">switching to a new supplier\u003C\u002Fa>, your supplier will put you on out-of-contract rates. These are more expensive but you can switch suppliers at any time.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>To avoid deemed and out-of-contract rates, make sure that you \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002F\">compare business energy deals\u003C\u002Fa> well in advance of your contract end date to find the best option for your shop.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Blend and extend tariffs - \u003C\u002Fstrong>These deals are a bit more complex than fixed-rate deals, as they allow you to extend the length of your current contract with the same supplier, who will then reward your loyalty with lower rates.\u003Cbr>\nThis type of deal can help you cut the amount you pay for gas and electricity. It could be a good fit if you're happy with your current supplier, but you’ll probably be able to get even cheaper rates by switching to another supplier. Learn more about \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fguides\u002Fblend-and-extend-contract\u002F\">Blend and Extend contracts\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>Business energy suppliers also offer blend and extend, flex approach, and pass-through tariffs. For more information, check out our guide to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fguides\u002Fbusiness-gas-and-electricity-tariffs-explained\u002F\">business energy tariffs\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n9058b6fa_abe8_01a2_fa65_1fdf768bccc2\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>How can I effectively monitor my shop's energy consumption?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>To effectively monitor your shop’s energy consumption, follow these steps:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Col>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Install a smart meter\u003C\u002Fstrong> – Track real-time energy usage and identify high-consumption periods.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Use energy monitoring tools\u003C\u002Fstrong> – Smart plugs and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fguides\u002Fbusiness-energy-monitors\u002F\">energy monitors\u003C\u002Fa> help track specific appliances.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Check your business energy bills\u003C\u002Fstrong> – Look for usage trends and unexpected spikes.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Schedule equipment use\u003C\u002Fstrong> – Automate lighting, heating, and cooling to run only when needed.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Conduct energy audits\u003C\u002Fstrong> – Regular \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fguides\u002Fbusiness-energy-audit\u002F\">energy audits\u003C\u002Fa> help you find inefficiencies and upgrade to energy-efficient appliances.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Fol>\n\u003Cp>By monitoring and optimising usage, you can cut costs and improve efficiency.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"abc009b6_8cc2_0114_df05_8df92fce7943\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>How can I reduce energy consumption in my shop?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Despite all the ways that shops can use energy and cause your bills to shoot up in price, there are plenty of easy changes that you can make to become more energy efficient. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Adjust your lighting — \u003C\u002Fstrong>Consider installing light sensors so that you’re only using energy when you need it. This way the light sensors detect movement and will automatically switch off if there hasn’t been any movement for a while.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Swap your light bulbs — \u003C\u002Fstrong>Installing more efficient lighting — like LEDs or compact fluorescent bulbs — will also help to reduce your electrical consumption.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Turn down the heating\u003C\u002Fstrong> — To make the most of your energy without compromising a comfortable temperature, try to keep doors closed to prevent warmth from escaping. Turning your thermostat down by even just 1°C can make a huge difference on your bill, as can timing your heating to turn off an hour or so before closing. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Keep your fridges and freezers at the correct temperature \u003C\u002Fstrong>— Before you start trying to cut your costs, you must make sure that your equipment is running at the recommended minimum temperature for food safety. Stick to these guidelines as any warmer and you might compromise your goods, but any cooler and you may be wasting energy. Simple measures like checking that the doors are always closed and that seals are properly maintained can also help to regulate temperatures and reduce energy consumption.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Review the energy-efficient label — \u003C\u002Fstrong>Electrical items will have an energy-efficiency label that gives them a rating of how much it costs to run them. Items with a rating of A+++, A++, or A+ are the most efficient and will have the lowest running costs, so try to look for equipment with these ratings.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Opt for insulation — \u003C\u002Fstrong>You can make all of the above changes, but your bill may still be costly if your building is poorly insulated and loses lots of heat easily. Keep your store in good condition and catch any potential repairs, like damaged windows or leaking roofs, early on to prevent draughts and damp conditions. They may let all of the precious warmth escape, and in turn, cause you to crank up your heating and your bill.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n8485e928_5721_0118_7c27_0cc552131568\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>Can retail shops utilise renewable energy sources?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>If you're looking to cut your bill and do a bit for the environment, there are e=s\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Col>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Solar panels\u003C\u002Fstrong> – Install rooftop or on-site \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fguides\u002Fsolar-power-for-business\u002F\">solar panels\u003C\u002Fa> to generate electricity and reduce reliance on the grid.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Wind energy\u003C\u002Fstrong> – Small-scale wind turbines can provide additional renewable power.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Green energy tariffs\u003C\u002Fstrong> – Switch to an energy supplier that provides 100% renewable electricity.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Battery storage\u003C\u002Fstrong> – Store excess solar or wind energy to use during peak times.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Energy-efficient upgrades\u003C\u002Fstrong> – Use \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fguides\u002Fenergy-efficient-lighting-saving-your-business-money\u002F\">LED lighting\u003C\u002Fa>, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fguides\u002Fsmart-meters\u002F\">smart meters\u003C\u002Fa>, and efficient heating to complement renewable energy.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Fol>\n\u003Cp>Using renewables can help your retail shops cut costs, reduce carbon footprint, and enhance sustainability.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n60f36074_a1bc_01af_a36b_1ede17bdcd06\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>How can I protect my shop from energy price volatility?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Energy prices have been more volatile than ever over the last few years. Although the market has calmed and prices have come down a lot since prices spiked in 2022, energy is still expensive.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The best way to protect against price volatility is to fix your rates. This will give you bill stability for the length of your contract and help you budget. It’s important to note, however, that it’s only the cost of each unit of power that is fixed for the length of your contract. This protects you against rising energy costs, but if you use more power than usual, your bills will also increase to cover that extra energy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Once you've fixed your rates, you can also keep your bills in check by using renewables (like wind or solar) and by being more energy efficient.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"f5a37907_c2ce_01d5_d3f8_f9b7b476a494\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>Can I save money by switching energy suppliers?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Changing energy suppliers when your contract ends is one of the best ways to save money on your business energy. Looking early and comparing different \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fguides\u002Fbusiness-gas-and-electricity-tariffs-explained\u002F\">tariffs and deals\u003C\u002Fa> means that you can find the best price for your shop.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Unfortunately, business energy contracts can be long and the cost of waiting for them to end can have a huge impact on your livelihood. If your current contract isn’t right for you, you may be able to pay to end your contract. This is known as an exit fee and it’s set by your provider. Contact your provider to enquire whether this is a service they offer, and if they do, work out whether it’s the most cost-effective option in the long run.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n8d3aa1d0_2241_011c_5df0_ce6b912ba49e\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>How do I switch my business energy supplier?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Exploring different tariffs and providers can be a time-consuming process, especially if you’re unsure as to what to look for when shopping for the right deal. Here at Bionic, we compare \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002F\">business energy\u003C\u002Fa> from dozens of trusted UK business energy suppliers to gather the best options for your company. We’ll then walk you through the quotes on your screen to help you find the most cost-effective choice. Get in touch with our team to start comparing providers before your current tariff ends.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For more information on when to start searching, read our guide to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fguides\u002Fwhen-to-switch-business-energy-supplier\u002F\">when the best time is to switch energy suppliers.\u003C\u002Fa>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>Start saving money with Bionic\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>From turning down your thermostat to getting a smart meter installed, there are plenty of ways that you can cut down your gas and electricity usage to reduce your energy bills.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To learn more about business energy, visit our \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fguides\u002F\">business guides\u003C\u002Fa> page. And if you’re looking to switch energy suppliers, get in touch with the Bionic team today to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fbusiness-electricity\u002F\">compare business electricity\u003C\u002Fa> and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fbusiness-gas\u002F\">business gas\u003C\u002Fa> deals to ensure your shop is making its energy go further.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At Bionic, we can also help arrange \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fshop\u002F\">shop insurance\u003C\u002Fa>, finding you a deal that's right for your business.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":163,"type":164,"value":165,"linkedItems":167},"Author","modular_content",[166],"les_roberts",[168],{"elements":169,"system":227},{"name":170,"title":173,"linkedin":175,"twitter":178,"intro":181,"body":188,"slug":195,"image":199,"seo__meta_title":211,"seo__meta_description":214,"seo__add_no_index_tag":217,"seo__canonical_url":224},{"name":171,"type":7,"value":172},"Name","Les Roberts",{"name":6,"type":7,"value":174},"Senior Content Manager",{"name":176,"type":7,"value":177},"Linkedin Address","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.linkedin.com\u002Fin\u002Flesrobertsmedia\u002F",{"name":179,"type":7,"value":180},"Twitter Address","https:\u002F\u002Ftwitter.com\u002Fbionic_business",{"images":182,"linkedItemCodenames":183,"linkedItems":184,"links":185,"name":186,"type":160,"value":187},[],[],[],[],"Intro","\u003Cp>A diverse career path has seen Les move from seaside town tea shop owner to customer champion at MoneySuperMarket. And these two roles that have combined at Bionic where you’ll now find him writing about everything from how to start and run a café to rising energy prices. \u003C\u002Fp>",{"images":189,"linkedItemCodenames":190,"linkedItems":191,"links":192,"name":193,"type":160,"value":194},[],[],[],[],"Body","\u003Cp>A diverse career path has seen Les move from seaside town tea shop owner to customer champion at MoneySuperMarket. And these two roles that have combined at Bionic where you’ll now find him writing about everything from how to start and run a café to rising energy prices. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Having experienced life as a busy business owner himself, Les understands how hectic things can get when running a business. That’s why he cuts through the jargon to make sure you get all the information you need in a way that’s easy to understand. Whether you need to know how current events will affect your business, the best way to set up a business bank account, or anything in between, Les will have written something about it. \u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":196,"type":197,"value":198},"Slug","url_slug","les-roberts\u002F",{"name":200,"type":201,"value":202},"Image","asset",[203],{"name":204,"description":205,"type":206,"size":207,"url":208,"width":209,"height":209,"renditions":210},"lesroberts-new.png","Les Roberts, Senior Content Manager at Bionic","image\u002Fpng",84731,"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F69842c59-20c3-4c2d-a8c6-1befcae5f4dc\u002Flesroberts-new.png",287,{},{"name":212,"type":7,"value":213},"Meta title","Les Roberts | Content Manager | Bionic",{"name":215,"type":7,"value":216},"Meta description","With a background in business and consumer affairs, Les writes about everything from how current events will affect your business to the best way to set up a business bank account.",{"name":218,"type":219,"value":220},"Add no index tag","multiple_choice",[221],{"name":222,"codename":223},"No","no",{"name":225,"type":7,"value":226},"Canonical URL","https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fauthors\u002Fles-roberts\u002F",{"codename":166,"collection":44,"id":228,"language":44,"lastModified":229,"name":230,"sitemapLocations":231,"type":232,"workflowStep":233,"workflow":44},"2cb817c0-35d8-4d8e-99ee-fd561e981d01","2024-10-09T09:22:44.1545356Z","AUTHOR - Les Roberts",[],"author","published",{"name":235,"type":164,"value":236,"linkedItems":237},"Reviewer",[],[],{"name":239,"type":240,"value":241,"displayTimeZone":242},"Publish Date","date_time","2025-03-18T00:00:00Z","UTC",{"name":244,"type":240,"value":49,"displayTimeZone":49},"Updated Date",{"name":246,"type":197,"value":247},"URL","business-energy-for-shops\u002F",{"name":212,"type":7,"value":249},"Business Energy For Shops | Save Money On Your Bills | Bionic",{"name":215,"type":7,"value":251},"🏪 From lighting to heating, every business needs energy for its day-to-day running. Learn about business energy for shops and how to cut your bills with Bionic 🦾\n\n\n",{"name":218,"type":219,"value":253},[254],{"name":222,"codename":223},{"name":225,"type":7,"value":256},"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fguides\u002Fbusiness-energy-for-shops\u002F",{"name":258,"type":164,"value":259,"linkedItems":260},"Related Articles",[],[],{"name":262,"type":164,"value":263,"linkedItems":265},"Categories",[264],"category___business_energy_guide",[266],{"elements":267,"system":320},{"name":268,"short_name":270,"call_to_action":273,"call_to_action_button":276,"mobile_name":279,"url_slug":282,"icon":285,"active_icon":294,"seo__meta_title":301,"seo__meta_description":303,"seo__add_no_index_tag":305,"seo__canonical_url":308,"type":310,"order":316},{"name":171,"type":7,"value":269},"Business Energy Guide",{"name":271,"type":7,"value":272},"Short Name","Business Energy",{"name":274,"type":7,"value":275},"Call To Action Title","Get a quote for business energy",{"name":277,"type":7,"value":278},"Call To Action Button Text","Start a quote",{"name":280,"type":7,"value":281},"Mobile Name","Energy",{"name":283,"type":197,"value":284},"URL SLug","business-energy",{"name":286,"type":201,"value":287},"Icon",[288],{"name":289,"description":290,"type":291,"size":292,"url":293,"renditions":49},"business-energy-orange.svg","Energy Icon","image\u002Fsvg+xml",5492,"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002Fe7af8fd3-1fae-4b4a-8e3a-fcb5b49954fd\u002Fbusiness-energy-orange.svg",{"name":295,"type":201,"value":296},"Active Icon",[297],{"name":298,"description":299,"type":291,"size":292,"url":300,"renditions":49},"business-energy-white.svg","Energy Icon White","https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F6f05ed3c-9e23-4a60-8879-cd0402bb0da9\u002Fbusiness-energy-white.svg",{"name":212,"type":7,"value":302},"Business Energy Guides | Business Gas and Electric | Bionic",{"name":215,"type":7,"value":304},"Bionic's business energy guides use our expert knowledge to cut through the jargon and help you find the best gas and electric deals for your business ",{"name":218,"type":219,"value":306},[307],{"name":222,"codename":223},{"name":225,"type":7,"value":309},"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fguides\u002F",{"name":311,"type":219,"value":312},"Type",[313],{"name":314,"codename":315},"Guide","guide",{"name":317,"type":318,"value":319},"Order","number",1,{"codename":264,"collection":44,"id":321,"language":44,"lastModified":322,"name":323,"sitemapLocations":324,"type":325,"workflowStep":233,"workflow":44},"6792dcae-3009-4c58-a113-f7827f7d0184","2024-03-12T12:30:12.9734149Z","Category - Business Energy Guide",[],"category",{"name":327,"type":164,"value":328,"linkedItems":329},"Subfolder",[],[],{"name":331,"type":164,"value":332,"linkedItems":333},"Tags",[],[],{"name":335,"type":201,"value":336},"Thumbnail Image",[337],{"name":338,"description":15,"type":339,"size":340,"url":17,"width":19,"height":18,"renditions":341},"Empty, brightly-lit aisle in large supermarket.jpg","image\u002Fjpeg",352752,{},{"name":343,"type":219,"value":344},"Show on index page",[345],{"name":346,"codename":347},"Yes","yes",{"name":349,"type":219,"value":350},"Hide Author",[351],{"name":222,"codename":223},{"name":353,"type":219,"value":354},"Hide Reviewer",[],{"name":356,"type":219,"value":357},"Hide Tags",[358],{"name":346,"codename":347},{"codename":360,"collection":44,"id":361,"language":44,"lastModified":46,"name":362,"sitemapLocations":363,"type":315,"workflowStep":233,"workflow":44},"energy_guide___business_energy_for_shops","f005e926-23b1-4ba1-a1ac-277f62e1e587","ENERGY GUIDE - Business Energy for Shops",[],1784910326742]