# What protections do micro-businesses have on energy?

> Quick answer · Last updated 5 July 2026

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## In short

Ofgem classifies micro-businesses — typically fewer than 10 employees and turnover or balance sheet under set limits — for enhanced contract rules: clear key terms on bills, notice before out-of-contract rates apply, and ability to switch more easily from rollover contracts placed after specific regulatory dates.

Micro-business definitions use employee count, annual turnover and energy consumption — very high kWh users may fall outside micro status despite small headcount.

Suppliers must provide principal terms, contract end dates and renewal windows on bills — use these to avoid silent rollovers to deemed rates.

Cooling-off rights apply to some doorstep and telesales business contracts — distance sales regulations give 14 days to cancel certain agreements.

If struggling to pay, speak to supplier early — disconnection rules for business differ from domestic protections but suppliers must follow licence conditions on fair treatment. See business energy explained.

## Related

- [Business energy explained](https://moneyguide.org.uk/bills-utilities/business-energy-explained/)
- [How to switch business energy](https://moneyguide.org.uk/answers/how-to-switch-business-energy/)

## Primary source

ofgem.gov.uk/information-consumers/energy-advice-businesses/micro-businesses

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Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.