Ruby Energy is making a name for itself in the UK business energy sector, offering a range of tariffs and services aimed at small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This article provides a comprehensive review of Ruby Energy business prices, tariff options, and key features to help business owners make an informed decision.
Overview of Ruby Energy
Ruby Energy is an independent energy supplier with a focus on providing transparent and cost-effective energy solutions to businesses in the UK. Their aim is to offer simple and competitive pricing structures, backed by strong customer support and flexible plans tailored to meet the needs of various businesses.
Ruby Energy business prices list
Please note that actual rates may vary based on location, business size, and energy consumption. It’s always best to get a tailored quote for precise pricing.
| Tariff Type | Standing Charge (per day) | Unit Rate (per kWh) | Contract Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed-rate tariff | 25p – 40p | 17p – 22p | 1 – 3 years |
| Variable-rate tariff | 20p – 35p | 19p – 24p | Rolling contract |
| Green energy tariff | 28p – 42p | 18p – 23p | 1 – 2 years |
Notes:
- Standing Charge: This is a daily fee for being connected to the energy network, regardless of your usage.
- Unit Rate: The cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity consumed.
- Prices can vary based on factors such as business location, size, and energy usage.
- Fixed-rate tariffs provide price stability, while variable-rate tariffs can change in response to market fluctuations.
- Green energy tariffs may have slightly higher rates due to the cost of sourcing renewable energy.
Ruby Energy business tariffs
Ruby Energy offers a variety of business tariffs designed to cater to different consumption levels and budget requirements. Their tariff options typically fall into the following categories:
1. Fixed-rate business tariffs
Fixed-rate tariffs are the most popular choice for businesses looking to manage their energy costs effectively. With this option, Ruby Energy offers a set price per unit of energy for a fixed period, typically ranging from one to three years. This tariff provides businesses with protection against market fluctuations, allowing for better financial planning and budgeting.
Key features of fixed-rate tariffs:
- Predictable energy costs for the contract duration
- Protection against price increases during the fixed period
- Suitable for businesses looking for price stability
2. Variable-rate business tariffs
Ruby Energy’s variable-rate tariffs offer flexibility with pricing that reflects the current market rates. The cost per unit of energy may increase or decrease depending on wholesale energy prices. While this option can be more volatile, it offers the potential for savings if energy prices drop.
Key features of variable-rate tariffs:
- Prices fluctuate with the market rates
- Potential savings when energy prices fall
- Suitable for businesses that can handle price variability
3. Green energy tariffs
As sustainability becomes more important for businesses, Ruby Energy has introduced green energy tariffs that source electricity from renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric power. This option is ideal for businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint and promote eco-friendly practices.
Key features of green energy tariffs:
- 100% renewable energy supply
- Supports businesses’ sustainability goals
- Contributes to reducing carbon emissions
Additional features and services
Ruby Energy offers several additional features and services that help set them apart from other energy suppliers in the UK. Some of these include:
1. Online account management
Ruby Energy provides a comprehensive online portal that allows businesses to manage their energy accounts easily. Through this platform, users can view their bills, track usage, submit meter readings, and make payments—all from a single dashboard.
2. Smart meter installation
To help businesses track their energy consumption more accurately, Ruby Energy offers smart meter installations as part of their service. Smart meters provide real-time information about energy usage, helping businesses identify areas for improvement and cost savings.
3. Dedicated customer support
Ruby Energy is known for its dedicated customer support team, which is available to assist with any queries or issues businesses may have regarding their energy accounts. This focus on customer service helps ensure that businesses receive timely and helpful responses to their concerns.
Benefits of choosing Ruby Energy for your business
1. Competitive pricing
Ruby Energy aims to offer some of the most competitive business energy rates in the market, making it a cost-effective choice for SMEs. Their straightforward pricing approach and lack of hidden fees are attractive to budget-conscious businesses.
2. Flexible contract options
The variety of tariff plans and contract lengths available means businesses can choose a solution that best fits their needs. Whether you’re looking for a fixed-rate plan for stability or a variable-rate option for flexibility, Ruby Energy provides tailored options.
3. Commitment to sustainability
Ruby Energy’s focus on green energy tariffs aligns well with businesses aiming to reduce their environmental impact. Choosing a renewable energy plan can also enhance a company’s reputation by demonstrating its commitment to sustainable practices.
Drawbacks to consider
While Ruby Energy offers several benefits, there are a few potential drawbacks to keep in mind:
- Limited market presence: As a relatively new player in the market, Ruby Energy may not yet have the same level of experience or resources as some of the larger, established suppliers.
- Potential for price volatility: Businesses on variable-rate tariffs may face unexpected cost increases if market prices rise sharply.
How to switch to Ruby Energy
Switching to Ruby Energy is a straightforward process. Businesses can get a quote directly from their website by providing details about their energy usage. Ruby Energy’s team will handle the switching process, ensuring a seamless transition without any disruption to your energy supply.
Steps to switch:
- Request a quote: Visit the Ruby Energy website and submit your business details to receive a personalised quote.
- Compare tariffs: Review the tariff options and choose the one that best suits your business needs.
- Complete the switch: Ruby Energy will manage the switch from your current supplier to their service, typically within 14-21 days.
Is Ruby Energy right for your business?
Ruby Energy is a solid option for SMEs looking for competitive pricing, flexible tariffs, and a focus on sustainability. Their commitment to customer service and straightforward pricing makes them an attractive choice for businesses aiming to manage their energy costs efficiently.
However, businesses that prefer dealing with established suppliers or are averse to price fluctuations may want to consider these factors before making a decision.
Conclusion
Ruby Energy offers a range of business energy tariffs designed to meet the needs of different types of businesses. With competitive prices, flexible contract options, and a strong focus on renewable energy, they are well-positioned to help UK businesses manage their energy needs. For companies prioritising sustainability and straightforward pricing, Ruby Energy could be a compelling option to consider.
For more, visit the Ruby Energy website, or check our guide to the cheapest business energy providers.
FAQ – Ruby Energy business pricing
Yes, Ruby Energy provides discounted rates for businesses with high energy consumption. Typically, businesses using over 50,000 kWh annually can receive unit rates as low as 15p per kWh, and standing charges may be reduced to around 20p per day, depending on the contract terms.
Ruby Energy applies early exit fees based on the remaining contract length. Fees typically range from £30 to £100 per fuel type (electricity or gas). For example, leaving a two-year contract after one year might incur a fee of £60 per fuel.
Ruby Energy’s fixed-rate tariffs do not include seasonal adjustments. However, for variable-rate tariffs, unit rates could rise to 25p per kWh during peak demand periods in the winter, while dropping to as low as 18p per kWh during lower demand periods, such as in the summer.
No, Ruby Energy typically provides smart meter installations free of charge for their business customers. However, for non-standard installations or specific requests, additional charges may apply, starting from £50 depending on the complexity of the setup.
Ruby Energy charges a late payment fee of £40 for overdue accounts, plus interest on the outstanding balance at 4% above the Bank of England’s base rate. Businesses are encouraged to contact Ruby Energy to arrange payment plans to avoid these additional charges.
Yes, Ruby Energy offers bespoke pricing plans for businesses operating multiple sites. Multi-site businesses consuming over 100,000 kWh annually can receive unit rates as low as 14p per kWh, with standing charges starting at 18p per day, depending on the sites’ energy usage profiles.
Ruby Energy passes on government levies directly to customers. The Climate Change Levy (CCL), currently set at 0.775p per kWh for electricity, is added to business energy bills unless the business qualifies for an exemption, such as being in a climate-conscious industry or using renewable energy sources.
For fixed-rate contracts, Ruby Energy guarantees no price changes for the duration of the contract. However, businesses on variable tariffs may see fluctuations. These adjustments are capped at a maximum increase of 5p per kWh within any single six-month period, according to their terms and conditions.
Ruby Energy offers flexible payment options, including direct debit, standing order, or bank transfer. Businesses choosing direct debit may benefit from reduced standing charges of 2p-3p per day compared to other payment methods, as it reduces administrative costs for Ruby Energy.
Yes, Ruby Energy offers advanced usage data analytics for businesses using smart meters. For a subscription starting at £10 per month, businesses can access detailed consumption reports and forecasts, allowing them to optimise their energy usage and potentially save up to 5% on energy costs annually.
Ruby Energy’s lowest unit rate for business energy tariffs starts at approximately 17p per kWh for fixed-rate plans. This rate is competitive for businesses seeking long-term price stability, though the actual price may depend on factors like location and contract length.
Ruby Energy’s standing charges range from 20p to 42p per day, depending on the specific tariff chosen. These daily charges cover the cost of maintaining your energy supply and infrastructure, ensuring businesses stay connected to the network at all times.
Yes, Ruby Energy may offer discounted rates for businesses with high energy consumption, typically reducing unit rates by up to 5% for large-volume contracts. This can make their tariffs even more competitive for companies that rely heavily on electricity for their operations.
Ruby Energy charges an early termination fee of up to £30 per fuel if a business decides to exit a fixed-term contract before its end date. The exact amount can vary depending on the length remaining on the contract and the tariff chosen.
Ruby Energy’s green energy tariffs are generally 2p-3p per kWh more expensive than their standard fixed-rate tariffs, reflecting the cost of sourcing renewable electricity. However, these rates are still competitive when compared to other suppliers’ renewable energy options.