Compare Business Gas Rates To Power Your Business Smartly

• LPG is stored in pressurized containers, bottles, or storage tanks located on your property. These containers are connected directly to the appliances that require gas.
• Once the LPG supply runs low or is depleted, the containers need to be refilled, which requires manual intervention.
• LPG is often used for appliances that require mobility or cannot be connected to a fixed gas line. For example, mobile outdoor heaters in restaurants or event spaces often use LPG because they rely on portable gas bottles.
• LPG bottles come in various sizes to suit different needs, ranging from small cylinders to large storage tanks of over 100 or 200 kilograms.

• Natural gas, on the other hand, is supplied through an underground gas line that is connected to a wider distribution network. This setup provides a continuous supply of gas directly to your business.
• Appliances are connected to the natural gas supply through pipes installed within the building, ensuring a steady and reliable flow of energy without the need for manual refills.
• Natural gas is typically used for fixed installations, such as heating systems, ovens, and other appliances that require a constant and uninterrupted gas supply.

An energy broker acts as an intermediary between your business and energy suppliers, helping you navigate the complex energy market. Their primary role is to analyze your current energy usage and costs, then compare rates and plans from various providers to find the best deal for your specific needs. Energy brokers have in-depth knowledge of the market and can identify opportunities for savings that might not be immediately apparent to business owners. By negotiating on your behalf, they can often secure better rates or contract terms than you could achieve on your own. Additionally, energy brokers provide ongoing support, monitoring the market for changes and advising when it might be advantageous to switch plans or providers again.

Reducing your business energy costs involves a combination of improving energy efficiency, choosing the right energy plan, and regularly reviewing your usage. Here are some steps to consider:

1. Conduct an Energy Audit: Identify areas where your business could be wasting energy and implement efficiency measures. This could include upgrading to energy-efficient lighting, optimizing HVAC systems, or insulating your building.
2. Compare Energy Plans: Regularly compare gas and electricity plans to ensure you’re on the most cost-effective rates. Switching providers or plans could result in significant savings.
3. Implement Energy-Saving Practices: Encourage employees to adopt energy-saving habits, such as turning off lights and equipment when not in use.
4. Consider Renewable Energy: If possible, explore the option of installing solar panels or other renewable energy sources to reduce reliance on grid electricity.

By taking these steps, you can manage and reduce your business energy costs, freeing up resources for other areas of your operation.

Yes, there may be fees associated with disconnecting or reconnecting your gas or electricity supply. These charges are typically imposed by your energy distributor and passed on to you by your energy provider, appearing on your next bill. The exact amount can vary depending on your location and the specific terms of your energy contract. To find out if you’re responsible for these fees, check your energy offer summary or contact your provider directly.

Your gas distributor is responsible for maintaining the gas network, including the pipes and infrastructure that deliver gas to your business. While your energy provider sells you gas and handles billing, the distributor ensures that gas is delivered safely and reliably to your property. If you already have a business gas plan, you can find your distributor’s contact information on your natural gas bill. This is important to know in case you experience any issues with your gas supply, such as leaks or interruptions.

Reading your gas bill is straightforward once you understand the key components. Here’s what you’ll typically find on a natural gas bill:

• Account Details: Includes your account number, billing period, and due date for payment.
• Amount Due: The total amount you owe for the billing period, including GST.
• Supply and Usage Charges:
  • Daily Supply Charge: A fixed charge for providing gas to your business, regardless of how much you use.
  • Usage Charge: The cost of the gas you’ve consumed, usually listed in cents per megajoule (MJ).
• Tariff Type: Indicates the type of gas plan you’re on, which affects your rates.
• Next Scheduled Meter Reading: The date when your meter will next be read.
• Payment Options: Lists the available methods for paying your bill, such as direct debit, BPAY, or credit card.

By reviewing these sections, you can ensure your bill is accurate and manage your energy usage effectively.

If you’re unsure whether your business premises is connected to a natural gas supply, you can verify this in several ways:

1. Check Online: Visit your gas distributor’s website and use their address lookup tool to see if your property is connected to the gas network.
2. Contact Your Distributor: Reach out to your gas distributor by phone or email with your business address to confirm if there’s an existing connection.
3. Consult Your Energy Provider: If you’re a new customer, your energy provider can assist in checking the connection and arranging for a new one if necessary.

If your business isn’t connected but you’re eligible, your distributor can install a service line, though there may be associated costs for this work.

To get a gas meter installed at your business premises, you’ll need to go through the following steps:

1. Apply with Your Provider: Start by contacting your gas provider, who will arrange the installation with your distributor.
2. Service Line Installation: If your property isn’t connected to an existing gas pipeline, you’ll need a service line installed first. This can take anywhere from 5 to 30 business days, or up to 8 weeks in Western Australia.
3. Meter Installation: Once the service line is in place, the gas meter itself can be installed. Meter-only installations typically take up to 3 business days.

Be sure to plan ahead, especially if your business relies on gas for its operations, to ensure there’s no delay in getting connected.

If your business is moving to a new location, it’s important to notify your gas provider in advance so they can arrange for the gas connection at your new property. Here’s what to do:

1. Contact Your Provider: Let them know about the move at least three business days before your move-in date. This gives them time to check if the property is already connected to the gas network.
2. Arrange Connection: If the property isn’t connected, your provider will coordinate with the distributor to install a service line and meter. Be sure to confirm the connection date so that your gas is ready when you move in.

By planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth transition to your new premises without any disruption to your gas supply.

In most Australian states, you don’t need to be present when your business gets gas connected unless:

• The Meter Is Inside: If the gas meter is located inside your business premises.
• Behind a Locked Gate: If the meter is behind a gate that is usually locked.
• Requires Safe Access: If the meter is in a location that requires specific safety precautions to access.

If any of these conditions apply, either you or an authorized person aged 18 or above will need to be present during the connection.

If you suspect an issue with your gas bill, such as being overcharged, you can request a meter reading from your energy provider. Here’s how:

1. Contact Your Provider: Call your energy provider and explain your concern. They can arrange for a special meter reading at your business premises.
2. Check for Accuracy: If the reading shows that you were billed correctly, you may be charged a fee for the special reading. If there was an error, your bill will be adjusted accordingly.
3. Estimated Bills: If your bill was estimated due to a missed meter reading, contact your provider to discuss options. They may arrange for a new reading or offer other solutions.

Regularly monitoring your meter readings can help ensure your bills are accurate and reflect your actual energy usage.

Yes, business gas bills may be eligible as a deduction on your next tax return, depending on the nature of your business and how you use energy at your premises. Here’s what you need to consider:

1. Business Use: Ensure that the gas usage is directly related to your business operations. This might include heating, cooking, or running machinery.
2. Home-Based Businesses: If you operate your business from home, you’ll need to calculate the portion of your gas usage that applies to your business activities. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) provides guidelines on how to do this.
3. Record Keeping: Keep copies of all business energy bills as they will be required for your tax records. Proper documentation will support your deductions and ensure compliance with tax laws.

For detailed advice tailored to your business, consult with an accountant or refer to the ATO’s resources.