- You can lock a new contract up to 12 months early
- Out-of-contract rates are 40–80% more expensive than a fixed
- Start comparing at least 90 days before your end date
- Serve written termination notice inside the contract window
The 12-month lock-in window
Ofgem allows suppliers to offer you a new fixed contract up to 365 days before your current end date. If wholesale prices dip during that window you can lock the lower rate and let it start automatically when your current deal expires.
Avoiding out-of-contract rates
If you don't renew or switch, suppliers move you to 'deemed' or out-of-contract rates that are typically 40–80% higher than a negotiated fixed. Diarise your end date and start comparing at least 90 days before.
Reading the market
Watch the front-month and season-ahead wholesale curves. A sustained fall over 4–6 weeks is usually a better signal than a single day's drop. A broker or comparison desk can flag when the market is offering value for your specific consumption profile.
Termination notice
Older contracts still carry termination-notice clauses. Serve notice in writing inside the window your contract specifies, otherwise the supplier can auto-roll you for another year.
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