Energy Bills Explained
Whether you're looking at a bill for your home energy or your business, it can be confusing to understand all the charges and terminology completely. This guide will clarify the common charges and terminology, including kWh, MPRN, MPAN, and unit prices.
What's Included in Your Energy Bill?
The first page of your energy bill typically includes essential information such as your details, billing information, and a summary of charges. Understanding your electricity readings is crucial, as it can lead to more accurate billing. Generally, your electricity and gas bills are issued separately.
By comprehending the details of your energy bill, you can better manage your energy usage.
Key Information on Your Energy Bill
Here's the most important information you'll need to know:
- Name & address - Basic contact information to ensure the supplier is billing the correct address.
- Tariff - the name of your tariff should be cross-referenced with your usage habits to ensure you're on the best one for you.
- Supplier details - all your supplier information should be included on your bill, with all the relevant contact information.
- Account number - your account number can help your supplier quickly find your account when you need to discuss it.
- Billing dates - the billing period for which you're being charged.
- Gas & electricity usage - check your usage against your bill to ensure it's accurate
- Unit rate - this is the rate you're charged for each kWh of electricity and gas used.
- Standing charge - this is the daily standing charge applied to your bill by your supplier to cover the delivery of energy.
- Meter readings - any meter readings taken should be displayed on your bill.
- Balance owed - your bill should display the balance owed with any exit fees if you plan to switch while in contract.
- Meter numbers - your MPAN and MPRN numbers relating to your meters should also be on your bill.
- Estimated annual cost - your projected annual cost will be included based on past usage.
Could you pay less for your energy bill?
Often featured on the first page of your energy bill, this section presents a personal projection of your annual energy expenditure (including VAT, discounts, and other charges relevant to you).
If you want to find a cheaper tariff that offers more, then you can compare tariffs from a range of suppliers to find a better energy deal for you and your household.