Gas meters in the UK can be either metric (measuring in cubic meters – m³) or imperial (measuring in cubic feet – ft³). You can check by looking at the units displayed on your meter:

• Metric meters show readings in m³ (cubic meters).
• Imperial meters show readings in ft³ (cubic feet), often labeled as "cubic feet" or "ft³".

If your meter has four or five digits before the decimal point, it is likely metric. If it has a longer reading with only whole numbers, it is likely imperial.

Gas meters record usage in cubic meters (m³) or cubic feet (ft³), but energy suppliers charge based on kilowatt-hours (kWh). The conversion ensures you’re billed correctly.

Formula:

• Metric meter (m³ to kWh):

Gas units used × Calorific Value × 1.02264
÷ 3.6 = kWh

• Imperial meter (ft³ to kWh):

Gas units×2.83×Calorific Value×1.02264÷3.6=kWh

💡 Calorific values fluctuate daily, but using 39.2 MJ/m³ provides a close estimate. Your supplier determines the final charge based on actual readings and calorific adjustments.

You'll need your latest and previous gas meter readings, your current rates, as well as the calorific value and correction factor (often found on your bill).

These values are typically displayed on your gas bill. They are used to account for variations in gas quality and ensure accurate calculations.

The calculators use industry-standard formulas for gas-to-kWh conversion, ensuring accurate results if you input the correct values.

It's best to use actual readings for accurate calculations. If you have estimated readings, the results may not reflect your true energy consumption.

If you are on a time-of-use tariff, your rates vary based on electricity demand. During peak hours (daytime), rates are higher, while during off-peak hours (night), rates are lower.

Businesses on flexible contracts or half-hourly meters may see real-time rate changes based on wholesale energy market fluctuations.

✔ Compare suppliers – Switching can help secure better rates.

✔ Use energy efficiently – Reduce waste, upgrade to LED lighting.

✔ Install a smart meter – Helps monitor and control usage.

✔ Check contract terms – Avoid high out-of-contract rates.

✔ Fix rates at the right time – Lock in lower prices when market rates are down.

Once you calculate your estimated bill, you can:

✔ Compare it to your supplier’s charges to see if you're being overcharged.

✔ Submit a meter reading to correct any discrepancies.

✔ Request a free quote if you want to explore cheaper supplier options.

Yes! Most suppliers allow meter readings via:

• Online portals (log in to your supplier’s website)
• Email or phone
• Mobile apps (for some suppliers)

If you’d like us to handle it for you, you can submit your reading, and we can pass it on to your supplier to recalculate your bills.

Switching suppliers is now faster and easier with the Faster Switching (FMRS) process, reducing switch times to 2–5 working days.

At Smart Energy Company, we handle the entire switching process for you—you just need to ensure there are no overdue balances with your current supplier, as this can cause objections and delays.

Here's how it works:

✔ Step 1: We provide you with a free quote based on the best rates available.

✔ Step 2: You choose the supplier & contract that suits your business.

✔ Step 3: We handle the entire switching process—ensuring a smooth transition with no service interruptions.

✔ Step 4: Your new supplier takes over within 2–5 working days.

💡 To avoid out-of-contract rates, we recommend starting the process 2–3 weeks before your contract ends.

🚀 Want to switch hassle-free? Let us take care of everything for you! Get a free quote today.

The Climate Change Levy (CCL) is a government tax on business energy usage. It’s meant to encourage businesses to be more energy efficient.

✔ Charged per kWh of electricity & gas used

✔ Applied to most UK businesses

✔ Exemptions apply for charities & small energy users

Your energy rates are impacted by:

✔ Wholesale gas & electricity prices (which fluctuate daily)

✔ Government taxes & levies (e.g., CCL, VAT)

✔ Supplier pricing strategies (fixed vs. variable contracts)

✔ Geopolitical events (gas supply disruptions, global energy crises)

When market rates are low, locking in a fixed contract can help businesses avoid future price hikes.