Small businesses in the UK often face challenges when it comes to understanding their gas bills. It can be confusing to make sense of the various charges and fees that appear on the bill, and it can be difficult to determine whether the business is being charged fairly. However, with a little knowledge and some attention to detail, small businesses can learn to understand their gas bills better and make informed decisions about their energy usage.
Understand the Terminology - The first step to understanding a gas bill is to become familiar with the terminology used. Gas bills typically include terms such as standing charge, unit rate, and VAT. The standing charge is a fixed daily fee that covers the cost of maintaining the gas supply to the property, while the unit rate is the cost per unit of gas used. VAT, or value-added tax, is a tax on the value of the gas supply and is charged at a standard rate of 20%.
Check the Meter Readings - It's important to ensure that the gas meter readings on the bill match the actual readings on the meter. This will help to ensure that the business is being charged correctly for the amount of gas used. If there is a discrepancy between the meter readings on the bill and the actual readings, it's important to contact the gas supplier immediately to have the issue resolved.
Understand the Billing Period - Gas bills are typically issued on a quarterly basis, but the billing period can vary depending on the supplier. It's important to understand the billing period to ensure that the business is being charged correctly for the amount of gas used during that period. It's also important to ensure that the billing period is consistent from one bill to the next, as this can impact budgeting and forecasting.
Compare Prices - Small businesses in the UK have the option to choose their gas supplier, and it's important to compare prices before making a decision. Comparison websites can be useful for finding the best deals, but it's important to read the terms and conditions carefully before signing up for a new supplier. It's also important to consider the level of customer service offered by the supplier, as this can be a key factor in the decision-making process.
Manage Energy Usage - One of the best ways to reduce gas bills is to manage energy usage effectively. This can include measures such as installing energy-efficient appliances and equipment, improving insulation, and ensuring that heating systems are maintained and serviced regularly. Small changes such as turning off lights and equipment when not in use can also help to reduce energy usage and lower bills.
In conclusion, understanding gas bills can be a challenge for small businesses in the UK, but by following these simple steps, it's possible to gain a better understanding of the charges and fees involved. By monitoring gas usage and comparing prices, small businesses can make informed decisions about their energy usage and potentially save money on their bills.
How can PSP help?
The energy terms found on your business energy bills can be very confusing and we understand the difficulties this can bring to business owners. We understand these challenges and will work with businesses to ensure that they fully understand their bills and to make better informed decisions when it is time to renew their contracts.