While low prices are important when looking for an energy deal, there are many other things you have to take into consideration before signing a contract with an energy supplier.

There are many energy providers that you can choose from. Many people only know the ones that belong to the Big Six and they assume that they have the best prices and offers. In reality, however, there are many smaller suppliers in the UK that provide cheaper rates and better customer service.

Here at Niccolo, for example, we truly stand out from the competition and we are among the smaller energy suppliers. If you want to find out what factors take into consideration when choosing an energy supplier, keep reading.

The reputation of the supplier

Reading reviews left by the suppliers’ former and existing customers is a great way to find out more about the quality of their services. Based on them you can find out whether the supplier you are considering has a good reputation. If they do not have any reviews or their reviews are bad, maybe you should think about a different provider.

Rates

All energy customers want to be getting the most competitive rates available. The energy prices vary from supplier to supplier. Moreover, in addition to prices per unit of energy consumed, suppliers charge additional fees such as a standing charge. When you are offered an energy contract make sure to analyse all the elements of what you will have to pay to avoid hidden charges.

The length of the contract

When you are looking for an energy deal, you will typically find contracts for 12, 24, or 36 months. Signing a contract means that you agree to be paying a certain fixed-rate for the duration of the plan. Sometimes choosing a longer plan helps you avoid the energy prices rising. Sometimes, however, the prices fall and yet you still have to pay the fixed rates you committed to. That is why taking some time to think about whether you should choose a short-term or a long-term contract is very important.

Impact on the environment

‘We are not on track to achieve the Paris Agreement’s goal of limiting climate change to 1.5*C by the end of the century. In fact, we’re on the opposite track, heading for more than a 3*C rise’, UN Climate Change reported on Twitter.

As climate change is a pressing problem, we all should undertake steps to lower our impact on the Planet.

Choosing a green energy provider is a good way to start. Nowadays most energy suppliers offer renewable energy deals so you can easily be getting your energy from clean sources. No matter whether it is solar, wind, or green gas, by choosing a green tariff you are doing something good for yourself and the environment!

Contract flexibility

In addition to comparing and analysing the prices, make sure to have a look at the terms and conditions of your chosen energy contract. It is important that you understand whether there will be many obstacles to you cancelling your contract and what fees you will need to pay if you switch providers before your existing energy deal expires.

You should carefully analyse all these aspects when choosing your energy supplier. Once you sign a contract with them, you might be stuck with it for more than a year so you have to do everything you can to make sure it is the best deal available. If you are feeling overwhelmed by the choice of suppliers and you need help understanding the terms of the contract they offer you, seek assistance from an energy broker. Thanks to the help of Energy Solutions, an energy broker with more than 20 years of experience, you can save time and money and make sure that you are getting the most competitive energy contract there is.