The Utility Regulator for Northern Ireland has announced new protections for small business energy customers, that have come into effect from 4 February 2026. The changes are designed to make the energy market fairer, clearer and easier to navigate for small businesses.
With energy costs still a major pressure for many firms, these updates should give businesses more confidence and control when choosing a gas or electricity supplier.
What’s changing?
Clearer pricing online
Energy suppliers will now be required to publish clear and transparent pricing information for small business customers on their websites. This should make it much easier to understand costs and compare deals – without hidden surprises.
It will be interesting to see how suppliers react to this new requirement and whether their most competitive offers are listed. For many small business owners getting on the most competitive deal will be key.
Fairer rules around security deposits
If a supplier asks for a security deposit, they must explain whether there are alternatives available, as well as when the deposit will be returned. This added clarity should help prevent small businesses being unfairly penalised or left out of pocket.
Easier switching from deemed contracts
Small businesses on deemed contracts – often the most expensive option – will no longer need to give notice before switching supplier. This removes a key barrier and makes it easier to move to a better deal.
(A deemed contract is the automatic default rate and terms that apply when a business is using energy but hasn’t agreed a contract, or is out of contract).
Why this matters
These changes form part of the Utility Regulator’s Consumer Protection Programme 2024–2029, which aims to improve protections for non-domestic customers who have traditionally had fewer rights than household energy users.
The Regulator has highlighted that small businesses want simpler pricing, clearer information and more confidence when dealing with energy suppliers – and these reforms are designed to address exactly that.
Colin Magee, Non-domestic Consumer Protection Manager at the Utility Regulator, commented, “These new protections come at an important time for Northern Ireland’s business community. Our engagement has shown us that small businesses want clearer information, fairer treatment, and more straightforward processes when engaging with the energy market.”
What this means for your business
If you’re a small business energy customer in Northern Ireland, the new rules could help you to:
- Compare energy prices more easily
- Avoid unfair or unclear security deposits
- Switch supplier without unnecessary delays
At Power to Switch, we always encourage small businesses to shop around and challenge their energy costs. These new protections should make it simpler and safer to do just that.
If you want help understanding your options or checking whether you could switch to a better energy deal, we’re here to help. Get a free quote today.
