# Business energy contracts: micro-business protections in 2026

> Energy & bills · 5 July 2026

Canonical HTML: https://moneyguide.org.uk/news/business-energy-small-firms-july-2026/
Markdown mirror: https://moneyguide.org.uk/news/business-energy-small-firms-july-2026.md

## Summary

Ofgem's micro-business rules cap contract lengths and require clear renewal notices. Compare unit rates, standing charges and rollover clauses — out-of-contract rates can double once fixed terms end silently.

Micro-businesses — generally fewer than 10 employees and low energy use — get Ofgem protections on contract terms, renewal notices and dispute resolution through the Energy Ombudsman.

Business energy is not covered by the domestic price cap. Contracts are bespoke — unit rates, standing charges, pass-through costs and climate levy lines all affect the bill.

Rollover and deemed rates apply when fixed terms end without a new contract. These are often far above market — diarise renewal dates 12 months ahead.

Half-hourly metering and pass-through charges complicate comparison for larger sites. Smaller shops and offices should still compare whole contract cost, not headline p/kWh alone.

Green tariffs and REGO-backed renewable claims vary in quality. See our business energy guide, energy switching guide and energy tariff comparator for domestic comparison principles.

## Related topics

- [/bills-utilities/](https://moneyguide.org.uk/bills-utilities/)
- [/work-earnings/](https://moneyguide.org.uk/work-earnings/)

---

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