Business Meters

3 mins read

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Business meters automatically capture your company’s electricity usage every half hour, night and day, and relay it to your energy provider in real time.

Business Meters

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Only businesses can use these meters since they’re not available for domestic customers. So, could they make a difference for your company?

Why Use A Half Hourly Meter?

The main benefit of having a half hourly business meter is that it takes up to date and highly accurate readings so you’ll only pay for electricity which you’ve actually used. Also, since those readings are automatically submitted to your energy supplier you won’t need to spend time and effort on taking and submitting your meter readings manually.

Another advantage for your company is that customers with a half hourly meter can receive a contract deal that is tailored flexibly to meet their own unique user profile. You’ll also receive a detailed breakdown of when you use most of your company electricity. This can help your business to become more energy efficient and cut down on usage to save you money.

Do Half Hourly Meters Have Any Drawbacks?

Half hourly business meters offer many advantages to users but there are a couple of things you should consider if you’re thinking of making the switch.

Some companies will include charges with half hourly meters for the meter operator to covert the maintenance and rental of the meter itself. This agreement can cost between £250 and £500 per year depending on which meter operator is used and the kind of meter being installed.

Also, most half hourly meter contracts have a larger scope and size and this makes renewing a contract or getting a new one can take more time. After having a half hourly meter installed you’ll also find that the majority of providers won’t change it to a different kind of meter.

What Kind Of Meter Do I Have At The Moment?

It’s possible to work out the type of electricity supply you already have by taking a look at a recent bill. Your MPAN (Meter Point Administration Number) will be outlined on the bill. Alternatively, if you don’t have a bill, the electricity distributor near you or your energy provider can tell you your MPAN number. If 00 are the first two digits, you’ve got a half hourly business meter already. Any other two initial digits means you don’t have one and you’re eligible to have one installed.

Should I Change To A Half Hourly Business Meter?

You’re required to change to a half hourly business meter if you have an electricity demand higher than 100kW in any half hour period. You’re also required to make the switch if you’re renewing a contract on a meter number starting with 08, 07, 06 or 05. However, you can also choose to install a half hourly meter if your business has a peak electricity demand over 70kW.

Is It Possible To Change Half Hourly Meter Supplier Or Tariff?

Yes, you can switch the supplier of your half hourly meter and you can also change the tariff you’re on. The best way to make sure you’re getting the right cheap deal for you is to compare what is on offer from different providers and getting quotes. You should begin this process around six months before it’s time to renew your contract. Here at SwitchPal we can help you to find the best deal for you so complete our online form today!

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