The Utility Regulator has launched its Small Business Energy Charter for a second year, introducing two new commitments that build on those established in last year’s Charter to further support Northern Ireland’s small business energy consumers.
This update is part of the launch of Northern Ireland’s Consumer Energy Charters for Winter 2025/2026—an annual programme aimed at supporting consumers throughout the colder months.
Electricity and gas suppliers across Northern Ireland have once again agreed to deliver enhanced assistance, reaffirming their commitment to helping small businesses manage energy challenges this winter.
The development of the Charter commitments is a collaborative project led by the Utility Regulator, in partnership with gas and electricity supply companies and the Consumer Council for Northern Ireland.
The Charters are also supported by the Department for Communities, the Department for the Economy, Advice NI and Make the Call.
Two new commitments have been added to this year’s Small Business Energy Charter. Participating energy suppliers will ensure that their staff are trained to understand and support the specific needs of small business consumers.
In addition, these suppliers have agreed to introduce a dedicated Frequently Asked Questions section on their websites to address common concerns raised by small business consumers.
Commenting on the launch, Sinéad Dynan, Head of Consumer and Business Protection at the Utility Regulator says, “We are pleased to launch Northern Ireland’s Consumer Energy Charters for Winter 2025/2026, in partnership with the Consumer Council for Northern Ireland and gas and electricity supply companies.
“We are grateful for the support of the Department for Communities, the Department for the Economy, Advice NI and Make the Call.
“It’s especially encouraging to see the Small Business Energy Charter entering its second year, now strengthened by two new commitments that will offer even greater support to small business consumers across Northern Ireland.
“The Utility Regulator’s core mission is to protect the interests of electricity, gas and water consumers across Northern Ireland, and the annual Consumer Energy Charters are an important part of our work to ensure both domestic and business consumers receive the support they need.
“If you are a small business concerned about your ability to make payments, we would encourage you to contact your electricity or gas supplier as early as possible.
“Suppliers are committed to treating customers with empathy and respect and will work with you to explore reasonable repayment options. Their trained staff are ready and willing to help.
“Whether you’re worried about an upcoming bill or are already facing energy debt, please don’t hesitate to reach out, support is available.”
Other commitments within the Small Business Energy Charter for Winter 2025/2026* include an agreement by suppliers to engage with small business consumers who are in payment arrears and to consider reasonable repayment plan options.
Suppliers have also committed to discussing contract renewal and available tariff options, where such changes can be facilitated contractually, and to discuss alternative options before issuing letters referencing disconnection.
Karen Smyth, Director of Infrastructure and Sustainability at the Consumer Council for Northern Ireland says, “Small and micro businesses are paying high prices for energy, and as a result many are struggling with energy costs. The Consumer Council welcomes the continued voluntary agreement of local suppliers to put in place extra support this winter for both domestic and non-domestic customers.
“We will support suppliers to ensure these tangible, beneficial, and measurable commitments to their customers are delivered and will continue to work closely with the Utility Regulator to enhance consumer protection.
“We strongly encourage any small or micro businesses experiencing difficulty paying their bill to contact their supplier as soon as they can to talk through their options.”
The commitments from the Consumer Energy Charters will be in place from 1 November 2025 to 31 March 2026.
Sinéad Campbell, Head of Money Debt and Quality at Advice NI, comments, “We welcome the Utility Regulator’s new Winter Energy Charter for both domestic and business customers. The Charter’s focus on clear communication and practical support is especially important as we enter the colder months, when costs rise and the most vulnerable feel the pressure first.
“If you’re worried about falling behind on energy bills or are already in utility debt, please reach out early—free debt advice is available. It’s also important to get a free benefits entitlement check to make sure you’re receiving all the support you are entitled to and to speak to us for free, confidential, independent advice.”
To find out more about Northern Ireland’s Consumer Energy Charters for Winter 2025/2026, visit: www.uregni.gov.uk