Opus Energy, a leading independent energy supplier in the UK, offers a range of business energy products designed to cater to different needs. This review explores Opus Energy buinsess pricing, the products they offer, and how businesses can benefit from their services.
Overview of Opus Energy
Opus Energy is a part of the Drax Group and has been a prominent player in the UK energy market since its founding in 2002. The company specialises in providing gas and electricity to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Opus Energy is known for its flexible contracts and customer-focused approach, aiming to help businesses manage their energy costs effectively.
Opus Energy business pricing list – Gas and electricity
Below is an indicative pricing data table for Opus Energy business energy products. Please note that prices may vary based on market conditions, the size of the business, and specific contract terms. This table provides illustrative prices for different types of contracts.
| Contract Type | Electricity Price (p/kWh) | Gas Price (p/kWh) | Standing Charge (p/day) | Renewable Option Available |
| Fixed Rate (1-Year) | 16.00 | 4.00 | 25.00 | Yes |
| Fixed Rate (2-Year) | 15.50 | 3.90 | 24.00 | Yes |
| Fixed Rate (3-Year) | 15.00 | 3.80 | 23.00 | Yes |
| Variable Rate | 18.00 (avg.) | 4.50 (avg.) | 20.00 | Yes |
| Renewable Fixed Rate | 16.50 | 4.20 | 26.00 | 100% Renewable |
| Half-Hourly Metering | 14.00 – 20.00 (based on usage) | N/A | 30.00 | Yes |
Business energy products offered by Opus Energy
Opus Energy provides a variety of products tailored to meet the unique needs of different businesses. These products are designed to offer flexibility, control, and competitive pricing.
- Fixed Rate Contracts:
- This is the most popular option among businesses as it offers price stability. With a fixed-rate contract, businesses agree on a set price for their energy usage over a specified period, typically one to three years. This helps businesses to budget more effectively by protecting them from market fluctuations.
- Variable Rate Contracts:
- These contracts offer more flexibility as the prices are tied to the market rates. While businesses might benefit from lower rates when the market is favourable, they are also exposed to potential increases. This option suits businesses that can adapt to changing prices and prefer not to be locked into long-term fixed rates.
- Renewable Energy Options:
- Opus Energy is committed to supporting the transition to sustainable energy. They offer green energy products sourced from renewable sources, including wind, solar, and hydroelectric power. Businesses choosing this option can improve their environmental credentials and contribute to sustainability goals.
- Half-Hourly Metering:
- Large businesses with higher energy demands can benefit from half-hourly metering, which provides detailed data on energy consumption. This allows businesses to track usage patterns and optimise their energy efficiency strategies.
Pricing structure
Opus Energy’s pricing is competitive and varies based on the type of contract, business size, and energy consumption. Prices are determined by several factors, including wholesale energy costs, the duration of the contract, and whether the energy is from renewable sources.
- Electricity Prices:
- Electricity rates for businesses are typically quoted in pence per kWh. Opus Energy offers bespoke quotes based on the business’s consumption and location. Fixed-rate contracts provide price certainty, whereas variable-rate contracts can fluctuate with market prices.
- Gas Prices:
- Similar to electricity, gas prices are also quoted per kWh. Businesses can choose fixed or variable rate plans. Opus Energy’s gas pricing is influenced by market conditions, and businesses are advised to consider their consumption patterns when selecting a contract.
Additional charges
While the main component of energy pricing is the cost per kWh, businesses should be aware of additional charges that may apply:
- Standing Charges:
- A daily fee that covers the cost of maintaining the supply of energy to the business premises. This fee is independent of usage and is charged regardless of energy consumption.
- Non-Commodity Costs:
- These include government levies, network charges, and environmental obligations. They are a significant part of the total bill and are passed on to customers by energy suppliers.
How to get the best deal with Opus Energy
- Evaluate Your Energy Needs:
- Understanding your business’s energy consumption patterns can help you choose the most cost-effective contract. Consider factors such as peak usage times, total consumption, and potential for energy efficiency improvements.
- Compare Contract Options:
- Opus Energy offers various contracts. Comparing fixed, variable, and renewable options will help you find a plan that aligns with your business strategy and budget.
- Consider Long-Term Contracts:
- While they lock you in for a longer period, fixed-rate contracts can offer significant savings and protection from price hikes in the volatile energy market.
- Monitor Market Conditions:
- If you are on a variable rate contract, keeping an eye on market trends can help you anticipate price changes and make informed decisions about switching contracts or suppliers.
- Leverage Energy Efficiency:
- Reducing your overall energy consumption can lower costs. Implementing energy efficiency measures such as LED lighting, energy-efficient appliances, and optimising heating and cooling systems can make a significant difference.
For more, see our business energy comparison, and our price lists for business gas and business electricity.
FAQ – Opus Energy business pricing
Opus Energy typically offers fixed-rate electricity contracts for businesses, with prices around 15.00 pence per kWh for a 3-year contract. For a shorter 1-year fixed rate contract, the price might be around 16.00 pence per kWh. Variable rate contracts can average around 18.00 pence per kWh, depending on market conditions.
Opus Energy offers competitive gas prices for businesses. A fixed-rate 1-year contract usually costs around 4.00 pence per kWh. For longer-term contracts, like a 3-year fixed-rate contract, the price might be approximately 3.80 pence per kWh. Variable rate gas contracts average around 4.50 pence per kWh.
The standing charges that Opus Energy applies to business customers vary by contract type. For most fixed-rate contracts, the standing charge is around 23.00 to 26.00 pence per day. Variable rate contracts have a slightly lower standing charge, typically around 20.00 pence per day.
Yes, Opus Energy provides renewable energy options for businesses. The price for a fixed-rate renewable electricity contract is generally around 16.50 pence per kWh. The standing charge for renewable contracts is slightly higher due to the sourcing of green energy, averaging around 26.00 pence per day.
For businesses using half-hourly metering, Opus Energy provides pricing that varies based on actual usage. Typically, electricity prices range from 14.00 to 20.00 pence per kWh. The standing charge for half-hourly metered businesses is usually higher, at about 30.00 pence per day, to account for the detailed monitoring and reporting.
To secure the best rates with Opus Energy, businesses can consider long-term fixed-rate contracts. For example, a 3-year fixed electricity contract offers rates around 15.00 pence per kWh, which can be lower than the rates for shorter-term contracts or variable rates. Reviewing usage patterns and opting for a plan that aligns with energy consumption can also help optimise costs.
In addition to the standard rates per kWh and standing charges, Opus Energy includes non-commodity costs such as government levies and network charges. These charges are typically included in the overall rate and can influence the final cost, although they are not itemised separately in most contracts. Businesses should expect these additional costs to be integrated into their per kWh pricing.