A key player in the business energy space is Smartest Energy, a supplier that focuses on providing tailored energy solutions for businesses. This guide will explore Smartest Energy business pricing, products, and overall suitability for UK businesses looking to optimise their energy costs.
Understanding Smartest Energy
Smartest Energy, part of the Marubeni Corporation, is known for its commitment to sustainability and competitive energy solutions. Specialising in renewable energy, Smartest Energy sources a significant portion of its electricity from independent renewable generators. This focus makes it an attractive choice for businesses prioritising environmental responsibility alongside cost-efficiency.
Smartest Energy business pricing list – Gas and electricity
Since actual prices can vary based on contract specifics, market conditions, and the size of the business, the table below will provide indictive rates for various types of contracts.
| Contract Type | Typical Duration | Renewable Energy Percentage | Unit Rate (pence per kWh) | Standing Charge (pence per day) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed-term Contract | 1 year | 100% | 15.5 | 30 |
| Fixed-term Contract | 3 years | 50% | 14.0 | 28 |
| Flexible Contract | Variable | 100% | 13.5 – 18.0* | 35 |
| Renewable Energy Plan | 2 years | 100% | 16.0 | 32 |
| Standard Business Plan | 1 year | 0% (Non-renewable) | 14.5 | 25 |
| Demand-side Response | N/A | 100% | Based on market rates | N/A |
* Note: The unit rate for flexible contracts can vary significantly based on market conditions, timing of purchase, and consumption patterns.
Overview of Smartest Energy business energy pricing and products
Smartest Energy offers a variety of energy products designed to cater to the diverse needs of UK businesses. Their offerings include:
- Fixed-term contracts: These contracts provide businesses with price certainty over a specified period, typically ranging from one to three years. Fixed-term contracts are ideal for companies looking to avoid fluctuations in energy prices and budget effectively.
- Flexible contracts: For businesses with higher energy consumption or those wanting to take advantage of market movements, Smartest Energy offers flexible contracts. These contracts allow companies to purchase energy at different times throughout the year, potentially securing better prices when market conditions are favourable.
- Renewable energy products: Smartest Energy emphasises renewable energy, offering products that guarantee a certain percentage of electricity is sourced from renewable generation. This option is particularly appealing to businesses with sustainability goals or those required to meet specific environmental standards.
- Demand-side response (DSR): Through DSR services, Smartest Energy helps businesses reduce their energy costs by adjusting their consumption patterns in response to grid demands. This can include reducing usage during peak times or shifting operations to off-peak periods.
Pricing structure and transparency
Smartest Energy’s pricing structure is competitive, but like all energy suppliers, the actual cost can vary significantly based on factors such as market conditions, contract length, and energy consumption levels. Businesses can benefit from Smartest Energy’s transparent approach to pricing, which includes:
- Market-based pricing: Smartest Energy often bases its prices on wholesale market conditions, which can lead to competitive rates for businesses able to time their purchases effectively.
- Breakdown of costs: The company provides a detailed breakdown of energy costs, including wholesale prices, network charges, and environmental levies. This transparency helps businesses understand where their money is going and how they can potentially reduce costs.
- Customised quotes: Smartest Energy offers tailored quotes based on a business’s specific energy consumption patterns and requirements. This personalised approach ensures that companies are not paying for more than they need.
Benefits for UK businesses
Choosing Smartest Energy can offer several advantages for UK businesses:
- Cost savings: Through competitive pricing and the option to lock in rates with fixed-term contracts, businesses can achieve significant cost savings.
- Sustainability: With a strong focus on renewable energy, Smartest Energy allows businesses to reduce their carbon footprint and align with corporate social responsibility goals.
- Flexibility: The range of products, from fixed contracts to flexible pricing and DSR, means businesses can find a solution that fits their operational needs and financial goals.
- Expert support: Smartest Energy provides expert guidance and support, helping businesses navigate the complexities of the energy market and make informed decisions.
Considerations when choosing Smartest Energy
While Smartest Energy offers many benefits, businesses should consider the following before committing:
- Market volatility: For those on flexible contracts, market volatility can lead to unpredictable energy costs. Businesses need to have a risk management strategy in place to handle price fluctuations.
- Contract terms: It’s essential to understand the terms and conditions of any contract fully. Businesses should pay attention to details such as termination fees, renewal terms, and any potential hidden costs.
- Sustainability premium: While renewable energy is a major selling point, it can sometimes come at a premium compared to non-renewable options. Businesses need to weigh the cost against the benefit of meeting sustainability targets.
For more, see our business energy comparison, and our price lists for business gas and business electricity.
Smartest Energy business pricing – FAQ
Smartest Energy’s typical pricing for a fixed-term contract can vary based on the length of the contract and the percentage of renewable energy included. For example, a 1-year fixed-term contract with 100% renewable energy might have a unit rate of 15.5 pence per kWh and a standing charge of 30 pence per day. A 3-year fixed-term contract with 50% renewable energy could have a lower unit rate of around 14.0 pence per kWh and a standing charge of 28 pence per day.
Yes, Smartest Energy often provides more competitive rates for high consumption businesses. For instance, businesses using more than 100,000 kWh annually might receive unit rates as low as 13.0 pence per kWh, depending on the contract terms and market conditions.
Smartest Energy’s flexible contract pricing allows businesses to purchase energy at different times throughout the year, potentially securing better rates. The unit rate for flexible contracts typically ranges from 13.5 to 18.0 pence per kWh, depending on market conditions. The standing charge for these contracts is usually around 35 pence per day.
Smartest Energy offers a range of options for renewable energy in its business contracts. Some contracts offer 100% renewable energy, while others might include 50% or more, depending on the business’s preference. For example, a business can choose a 100% renewable energy plan with a unit rate of 16.0 pence per kWh and a standing charge of 32 pence per day.
The standing charges for Smartest Energy business energy plans vary based on the type of contract. Typically, for fixed-term contracts, the standing charge might be around 30 pence per day. For flexible contracts, it could be approximately 35 pence per day. Standard business plans, without a focus on renewables, might have a lower standing charge, around 25 pence per day.
Smartest Energy aims for transparency in its pricing, providing a detailed breakdown of costs. However, businesses should be aware of potential termination fees if they wish to end a contract early. For instance, early termination fees can sometimes amount to £500 or more, depending on the remaining term of the contract and the specific agreement details.
Yes, Smartest Energy provides incentives for businesses opting for renewable energy plans. These plans often include benefits such as carbon footprint reduction reporting. While these plans may have unit rates around 16.0 pence per kWh, the long-term benefits of meeting sustainability goals can offset the slightly higher initial costs.
Smartest Energy offers a variety of contract durations for business customers. Typical contract durations range from 1 year to 3 years. A 1-year contract might have a unit rate of 15.5 pence per kWh, while a 3-year contract could have a more competitive unit rate of 14.0 pence per kWh, offering businesses a choice between flexibility and cost certainty.
Smartest Energy manages market volatility by offering both fixed and flexible contracts. Fixed-term contracts provide price stability with unit rates such as 15.5 pence per kWh for a 1-year term. Flexible contracts allow businesses to adapt to market changes, with rates fluctuating between 13.5 and 18.0 pence per kWh, helping businesses take advantage of favourable market conditions.
Yes, Smartest Energy can provide a customised quote based on your business’s specific energy usage and needs. For example, a business consuming 50,000 kWh annually might receive a unit rate of 14.5 pence per kWh, while a business with higher consumption might be offered a lower rate, around 13.0 pence per kWh, depending on the contract type and duration.