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Gas rates and charges vary by plan and usage, which affects what you pay across the year.
Gas use often changes with the seasons, especially in colder months, which can impact overall costs.
Contract length and exit conditions can affect your ability to change plans as your business needs shift.
Stable gas usage suits different plans than businesses with changing or seasonal demand.
The small energy market for SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises) typically includes businesses consuming under 100,000 kWh of electricity or spending less than about $3,000 monthly on energy. Bills for these customers are usually sent quarterly.
On the other hand, the large energy market for C&I (commercial & industrial) businesses consists of those using over 100,000 kWh per year or spending more than about $3,000 a month. In NSW, VIC, QLD, and ACT, a C&I business is defined as one that consumes more than 100,000 kWh annually. In SA, this threshold is set at over 160,000 kWh per year, with bills always issued monthly.
What sets small business (SME) energy customers apart from large business (C&I) customers is that the large business customers can participate in, or qualify for, the wholesale energy market, enabling them to secure forward purchasing at better rates.
To figure out where you stand, simply check your energy bill. With this information, you should have no trouble determining if you've received a SME or C&I energy bill.
Business gas rates are influenced by usage levels, location, contract terms, and wholesale market conditions.
Reviewing a recent gas bill and comparing it against available plans designed for business use is the most reliable approach. Zembl's Energy Experts can do this for you.
Fixed-rate plans provide price certainty, making it easier to manage budgets and cash flow.
A business gas comparison can help identify whether your current plan or rates are no longer suitable.
Some plans offer renewable or lower-emissions options, depending on availability and location.
It's generally a good idea for businesses to periodically check their business gas plan, particularly when they receive a price change notification or their circumstances change. A review allows you to confirm your current contract terms remain suitable and meet current business needs, without necessarily changing providers.
Focusing only on price, ignoring contract terms, and not considering seasonal usage are common mistakes.
Gas usage often increases in colder months, which can impact costs depending on your plan structure.
Improved efficiency can reduce ongoing costs and lower exposure to future price changes.
Simple explainers to help you understand how energy works.
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