Manage your energy supplier
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Your company is protected not only by the contractual terms and
conditions agreed with your energy supplier, but also by the statutory
obligations and standards of performance set out by regulatory bodies. Negotiating service level agreementsIt is
crucial that you negotiate the level of service that you require when you sign
up for a new contract. Maintenance of your gas and electricity supply should be
consistent throughout the life of your contract, not just at the
beginning.With so many suppliers in the energy industry, it's a buyers market -
so don't be frightened to ask questions. Look for clauses in the contract that
stipulate, for example, how often your meter will be read, don't just assume
it's every month. Clarify what level of account management you require during
the negotiations. Take time to look over the contract and seek amendments to any
clauses you are not happy with, or negotiate your own conditions. Weigh up the
cost with the level of service - the cheapest option is not always the best!
Impartial trade exchanges, such as
BuyENERGYonline, will assist you
in finding the best deal. Check the procedures for terminating the contract and
make sure they are not too restricitive, and remember to diarise the notice
period. Emergency situationsLearning how to recognise
a gas leak is the first step: natural gas is colourless, odourless and
non-toxic, however it is highly flammable. For safety reasons, a smell like
rotten eggs is added to the gas so you can detect a leak. Clear the gas by
letting it escape thorugh windows and doors, and if a fire starts don't attempt
to put it out with water.As a precautionary measure you should vacate the building and call
Transco, who operate the 24-hour emergency response service, on 0800 111 999.
This service operates 365 days a year. If a disconnection is required, Transco
will do this for you and it is at this point that you should contact your
supplier to find out about receiving compensation. Interruption of supplyA gas or power cut may
cause disruption to your business so make sure you are aware of the procedures
for dealing with it as quickly as possible.The Utilities Act 2000 has empowered Ofgem to set guaranteed and
overall standards for electricity distributors, electricity suppliers, gas
transporters and gas suppliers. Most standards are guaranteed with compensation
payments if suppliers fail to meet the requirements. For example, electricity supplies must be restored within 18 hours
after a fault is reported. One hundred pounds will be given to non-domestic
customers whose guarantee is not met, with a further £25 for each
additional 12-hour period without power. See
Ofgem for
further guaranteed standards.
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