The Utility Regulator has launched its enhanced Small Business Energy Charter for winter 2026/2027*, with all electricity and gas suppliers in Northern Ireland voluntarily committing to provide additional support to small business consumers.
This year’s Charter introduces new guidance** on comparing energy tariffs, working with energy brokers, accessing debt support and seeking help with unresolved complaints. The guidance is designed to help businesses feel more confident and informed when navigating the energy market.
As part of this winter’s Charter, businesses in payment arrears can contact their supplier to discuss their individual circumstances and reasonable repayment plan options, as well as any tariff or contract renewal options that may be available.
Participating suppliers will also use best endeavours to engage with businesses in debt to discuss alternatives before issuing any letters referencing disconnection and will direct businesses to relevant sources of advice and support.
The Small Business Energy Charter has been launched for a third year as part of Northern Ireland’s Consumer Energy Charters for winter 2026/2027, an annual programme aimed at supporting consumers throughout the colder months.
The Charter is designed to help small businesses manage energy challenges and access support when they need it most.
The Charters are also supported by the Department for Communities, the Department for the Economy, Advice NI and Make the Call.
Commenting on the Charter, Colin Magee, Non-domestic Consumer Protection Manager at the Utility Regulator, says, “Small businesses across Northern Ireland continue to face a range of financial pressures and we want them to feel more confident and informed when making decisions about their energy this winter.
“Our recently published Small Business Consumer Experience of Energy Stress Report*** highlighted the significant pressures that energy costs can place on firms, with some businesses reporting debt difficulties, reduced confidence and concerns about their future viability.
“The Small Business Energy Charter is intended to make support easier to access and help businesses understand their options before financial difficulties escalate. If you are struggling to pay your energy bills, contact your supplier as early as possible.
“Participating suppliers have committed to listening to your circumstances, considering reasonable repayment plans and discussing any tariff or contract options that may be available.
“The Charter also provides practical guidance on comparing tariffs, working with energy brokers, finding debt advice and getting help with unresolved complaints.
“We want small businesses to know that support and advice are available and that it is better to seek help early.”
Raymond Gormley, Head of Energy Policy at the Consumer Council, adds, “Small and micro businesses are the backbone of Northern Ireland’s economy, and many face the same pressures as households when it comes to managing rising energy costs. For smaller businesses, where resources are often stretched, access to clear information, practical advice and additional support can make a real difference.
“The Consumer Council welcomes the enhanced Small Business Energy Charter and the commitments made by energy suppliers to support businesses experiencing difficulties. We would encourage any business concerned about its energy bills to seek advice early and explore the support available.”
Advice NI’s Head of Money, Debt, and Quality, Sinéad Campbell, comments, “Behind every unpaid energy bill is a household or small business facing impossible choices. With winter comes increased energy costs and debt can quickly spiral from a worry into a crisis, affecting people’s finances, health and sense of security.
“We welcome the additional protections provided through the Consumer Energy Charters and encourage anyone who is worried about their bills to seek help early. These Charters send an important message that no one should struggle in silence.
“We urge anyone who is falling behind to seek help immediately; Advice NI’s free, independent Personal and Business Debt Advice Services can help them regain control and find a way forward by helping people understand their options, maximise their income and take practical steps towards managing their finances and debt.
“Many of our clients have told us their biggest regret was not seeking advice sooner, after struggling with debt for years before reaching out for our help.
“It is important people know they are not alone. Debt is nothing to be ashamed of and our advisers are here not to judge but to support.”
The commitments from the Small Business Energy Charter will be in place from 1 November 2026 to 31 March 2027.
To find out more about the Small Business Energy Charter for winter 2026/2027, visit: www.uregni.gov.uk