Clear Business Out of Contract Rates (Effective January 2025)

Thomas McGlynn • 10 January 2025

Avoid Overpaying: What You Need to Know About Clear Business’s Out of Contract and Deemed Rates

If your fixed-term contract with Clear Business has expired, and you haven’t switched suppliers or renewed your agreement, you’ll automatically be placed on their Out of Contract (OOC) rates. While these rates ensure your electricity supply continues, they are significantly higher than fixed-term agreements, impacting your business’s energy costs.

What Are Clear Business’s Deemed and Out of Contract Rates?

Clear Business applies higher rates to customers without a formal agreement in place. Here’s how these rates are structured:

Gas Rates (Effective January 2025)

Band AQ Band (kWh) Standing Charge (p/day) Unit Rates (p/kWh)
1 0 - 73,200 510.00 13.7
2 73,201 - 293,000 510.00 13.7
3 293,001 - 732,600 1200.00* 13.7

* Band 3 standing charge is the minimum, any additional fixed costs will be passed-through. 


Note: These rates exclude VAT and are subject to change based on industry notifications.

Non-Half Hourly Out of Contract Rates (Effective January 2025)

Standing Charge (p/day) Unit Rate (p/kWh)
360.00 47.50

Half-Hourly (HH) Low Voltage Out of Contract Rates

Region Standing Charge (p/day) Day Rate (p/kWh) Night Rate (p/kWh) DUoS Capacity Charge (p/kVa/day) Metering Charge (£/month)
East England 3,260 52.3 45.5 11.2 55
East Midlands 3,470 51.2 45.2 12.8 55
London 2,990 53.3 45.5 9.2 55
North Wales, Merseyside 3,890 53.5 45.7 18.7 55
West Midlands 3,600 51.4 45.5 16.7 55
North East England 3,670 51.1 45.1 15.4 55
North West England 3,280 52.1 45.2 11.3 55
South England 3,660 51.8 45.4 15.8 55
South East England 3,490 52.1 45.4 14.2 55
South Wales 3,650 51.7 45.5 18.2 55
South West England 3,760 51.4 45.2 18.0 55
Yorkshire 3,610 51.5 45.5 12.8 55
South and Central Scotland 3,830 51.7 45.2 16.7 55
North Scotland 3,410 52.8 45.8 17.5 55

Half-Hourly (HH) Low Voltage Out of Contract Rates

Region Standing Charge (p/day) Day Rate (p/kWh) Night Rate (p/kWh) DUoS Capacity Charge (p/kVa/day) Metering Charge (£/month)
East England 14,060 50.2 44.5 12.8 55
East Midlands 17,420 49.3 44.3 18.2 55
London 10,160 50.5 44.4 14.8 55
North Wales, Merseyside 24,730 50.3 44.4 24.5 55
West Midlands 19,080 49.6 44.5 20.5 55
North East England 23,920 49.1 44.2 15.1 55
North West England 14,180 49.8 44.3 12.8 55
South England 19,910 49.7 44.4 19.6 55
South East England 21,610 50.2 44.5 9.6 55
South Wales 22,370 50.0 44.5 20.3 55
South West England 21,290 49.7 44.4 19.3 55
Yorkshire 21.340 49.2 44.3 15.0 55
South and Central Scotland 22.610 49.0 44.0 21.5 55
North Scotland 15.540 49.1 44.4 31.3 55

What’s the Difference Between Deemed and Out of Contract Rates?


Clear Business distinguishes between deemed and out-of-contract rates based on your circumstances:


  • Deemed Contract Rates:
    Applied when you move into a new premises and begin using energy from the existing supplier without signing a formal agreement.


  • Out of Contract Rates:
    Applied when your fixed-term contract expires, and you continue receiving energy without renewing or switching to a new deal.



Why It Matters: Both rate types are higher than fixed-term contracts to reflect the risk suppliers face with uncertain usage. However, deemed rates tend to be slightly higher than out-of-contract rates.

Why Avoid Clear Business Out of Contract Rates?


  1. Higher Costs – Electricity rates exceed 50p/kWh, with standing charges as high as £90,264.50/year for half-hourly supplies.

  2. No Price Stability – These rates are subject to change without much notice.

  3. Missed Savings Opportunities – Fixed-term agreements often provide far better rates and stability.

How The Smart Energy Company Can Help

At The Smart Energy Company, we make it simple to switch from expensive deemed or out-of-contract rates to a tailored energy plan that saves your business money.


Here’s what we offer:


  • Full Market Comparison:
  • We compare rates from over 25 trusted suppliers to find the best deal for your business.


  • Hassle-Free Switching:
  • Our team handles all the paperwork and supplier communications, ensuring a smooth transition.


  • Savings Guarantee:
  • We secure competitive fixed-term rates tailored to your energy usage, saving you time and money.



  • Proactive Renewal Management:
  • Never fall onto deemed or out-of-contract rates again—we’ll alert you before your contract expires.

Why Act Now?


Every day you remain on deemed or out-of-contract rates with Clear Business could cost your business hundreds of pounds unnecessarily. By switching to a fixed-term contract through The Smart Energy Company, you can:


  • Cut Costs: Access significantly lower rates.


  • Secure Stability: Lock in predictable pricing.


  • Focus on Growth: Let us handle the transition while you focus on your business.


FAQs About British Gas's Out of Contract Rates

  • What should I do if I’m on deemed rates with Clear Business?

    Contact us today with a copy of your latest bill. We’ll compare your rates with competitive options in the market and help you switch to a better deal.

  • How quickly can I switch from deemed or out-of-contract rates?

    The switching process typically takes around 2 - 5 days, but it can vary depending on your circumstances. We’ll ensure a seamless transition to your new supplier.

  • Are deemed rates always higher than out-of-contract rates?

    Yes, deemed rates are typically higher because they apply when there’s no formal agreement in place. However, both types of rates are more expensive than fixed-term contracts.

Take Action Today


Don’t let high deemed or out-of-contract rates with Clear Business drain your budget. Contact The Smart Energy Company today to secure a better deal.



Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote:


Call us: 0151 459 3388

Email us: info@smart-energy.uk

Get a quote online:

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