SmartestEnergy is one of the UK’s leading business energy suppliers. The company started in 2001, focusing on buying independently generated renewable energy.
- 24 years renewable pioneer - SmartestEnergy has championed independent renewable generation since 2001 with 100% green electricity
- Premium renewable pricing - Tariffs 5-12% above market average at 31-38p/kWh reflecting genuine sustainability & renewable investment
- Perfect for large energy users - Specialises in businesses consuming 500,000+ kWh annually requiring bespoke renewable energy solutions
- Complex pricing structure - Multiple tariff components & charges less transparent than simplified suppliers like Clear Business Energy
- Outperforms Good Energy - Offers 20% better commercial rates & superior account management for equivalent 100% renewable supply
Related Business Energy Guides
They serve businesses nationwide, offering traditional and renewable energy products.
- Compare Business Energy Options
- Is a No Standing Charge Tariff Right for Your Business?
- How Much Energy Does an Office Use in the UK?
- 2026 Business Electricity Costs
FREE QUOTE COMPARISON
Compare Business Energy Quotes from Trusted Suppliers
✓ Save up to 45% on energy bills
100% free • No obligation • Takes under 2 minutes
They serve businesses nationwide, offering traditional and renewable energy products. Contracts come in both flexible and fixed-rate options.
SmartestEnergy is the UK’s 5th largest energy supplier by volume, working with over 600 independent renewable generators across wind, solar, hydro, and biomass. This lets them offer certified renewable electricity alongside standard products.
They support both energy consumers looking for business rates and generators seeking power purchase agreements. Customer reviews go both ways – some people mention professional service, while others find the website tricky to use.
Their products include FlexiBase for market flexibility, EnviroPass for transparent levy pricing, and several renewable energy options for businesses aiming to cut their environmental impact.
Overview of SmartestEnergy
SmartestEnergy is the UK’s 5th largest energy supplier by volume, buying from over 600 independent renewable generators.
SmartestEnergy is the UK’s 5th largest energy supplier by volume, buying power from independent renewable generators since 2001. They’ve become a major player in the commercial energy sector.
They support independent generators and provide flexible solutions to businesses across the UK.
Company Background and History
SmartestEnergy began in 2001 with the goal of transforming the UK’s energy market. From the start, they positioned themselves as a next-generation energy company.
They built their business by supporting independent energy generators. Over time, this led to a network of more than 600 projects across the country.
These projects include specialist developers, blue-chip companies, farmers, landowners, and local communities.
Key milestones include:
- 2001: Company founded
- Growth to over 600 renewable projects
- Became a top 10 business electricity supplier
- Recognised as the UK’s 5th largest energy supplier by volume
Their early focus on independent generation remains central to the business. This approach has driven growth in renewables.
Market Presence and Reputation
SmartestEnergy holds a spot as a top 10 business energy supplier in the UK. Their market position reflects a big role in renewables.
Customer ratings are broadly positive. Trustpilot shows a 4.2/5 average from over 5,200 reviews, though satisfaction varies.
Some industry surveys show lower satisfaction scores, so experiences clearly differ depending on the measure used.
Market Position Highlights:
- Top 10 UK business electricity supplier
- Major buyer of independent renewable energy
- Supports over 600 renewable projects
- Focuses only on the commercial market
Employee reviews on Glassdoor (39 from UK staff) suggest a fairly stable team.
Business Focus and Rebranding
SmartestEnergy works as both an energy supplier and a support service for generators. This dual approach sets them apart from more traditional suppliers.
For business customers, they offer flexible contracts – both fixed and flexible – with renewable options. For generators, SmartestEnergy provides Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and helps with grid connections.
Core Business Areas:
- Energy Supply: Flexible contracts with renewable choices
- Generator Support: PPAs and help for renewable projects
- Market Trading: Direct access to wholesale markets
Their business model bridges independent renewable generators with commercial users. This helps the UK’s shift to cleaner energy.
All renewable products come with proper certification, ensuring customers get genuine green energy.
FREE QUOTE COMPARISON
Compare Business Energy Quotes from Trusted Suppliers
✓ Save up to 45% on energy bills
100% free • No obligation • Takes under 2 minutes
Energy Products and Services
SmartestEnergy offers flexible contracts, certified renewables, and smart metering for UK businesses.
SmartestEnergy offers flexible contracts, certified renewables, and smart metering for UK businesses. They focus on supporting independent generators and provide competitive prices for small and medium-sized companies.
Business Electricity Contracts
SmartestEnergy has several flexible contract options. Their FlexiBase lets companies buy at open market prices with a fully flexible approach.
Group FlexiBase allows multi-site businesses to bundle all locations into one contract. This helps larger companies manage energy across different sites.
FlexiBase Dual Meter brings together both half-hourly and non-half-hourly metered sites under one contract. Handy for businesses with mixed metering.
With EnviroPass, government taxes and levies get passed on at published rates, so businesses pay only what’s required.
They supply over 100,000 small businesses in the UK, focusing on small to medium-sized enterprises, not households.
Renewable Energy Options
SmartestEnergy specialises in 100% renewable energy, all backed by certificates. Their Renewable Standard gives clean electricity from solar, hydro, wind, and biomass.
Natural Renewable uses only wind, water, or solar – no biomass or other sources – so businesses can pick the fuel types they prefer.
The Specific Renewable product lets companies choose electricity from a single source, giving more control over their energy mix.
All renewable customers get annual energy labels showing carbon emissions and fuel mix. These reports help big businesses with government carbon reporting.
They’re a major buyer of independent generation, supporting more than 600 renewable projects – farms, communities, and specialist developers.
Smart Metering Solutions
SmartestEnergy installs free smart meters for businesses to monitor usage. These give real-time data, which helps with energy management.
Smart meters work with both electricity and gas. They provide accurate readings, so no need for manual checks.
Invoices are based on actual usage, with timing depending on contract terms.
Smart meters make it easier for businesses to manage sites and switch suppliers. The technology streamlines admin for customers.
Pricing, Tariffs and Billing
SmartestEnergy offers fixed and variable pricing, with terms up to four years.
SmartestEnergy offers fixed and variable pricing, with terms up to four years. Their billing is transparent, and rates are competitive for businesses of all sizes.
Tariff Options and Custom Quotes
SmartestEnergy has different tariff structures for varying business needs. SmartFix allows you to lock in prices for up to four years, which helps protect against market swings.
SmartFlex is a variable tariff with no contract tie-ins. Businesses can switch at any time, as long as they clear outstanding invoices.
For unpredictable cash flow, SmartPay works as pay-as-you-go. You can top up online, by phone, or via direct debit. SMS and email alerts help manage your balance.
Low User is for businesses using less than 5,000 kWh a year. This variable tariff is competitive for small businesses.
Renewable versions of these products are available for those aiming for sustainability.
Price Comparison with Competitors
SmartestEnergy competes through tender offers and procurement services, serving over 100,000 small to medium-sized businesses.
Fixed-rate products offer price certainty for up to four years, while variable ones move with the market. This lets businesses pick what suits their risk and budget.
Their focus on renewables and supporting independent generators gives them an edge over traditional suppliers. Actual pricing depends on your usage and needs, so you’ll need a custom quote.
Billing Processes and Transparency
Supply prices show clearly on SmartestEnergy invoices under ‘Electricity/Gas Used’. Customer service teams are on hand to help explain invoices and pricing.
Payment options include direct debit, online, and phone payments, depending on your tariff. SmartPay offers extra flexibility for businesses with irregular cash flow.
For variable tariffs, SmartestEnergy gives advance notice of price changes. This helps businesses plan ahead.
The billing system fits different needs, from no standing charge tariff setups to traditional daily standing charges.
Customer Service and Support
SmartestEnergy assigns dedicated account managers and customer service executives to business customers.
SmartestEnergy assigns dedicated account managers and customer service executives to business customers. They achieve solid performance metrics, including 8.1 customer satisfaction scores and a +31 Net Promoter Score.
Customer Experience and Satisfaction
Customers often give positive feedback about their support experience. SmartestEnergy holds a 4.2 out of 5 Trustpilot score from over 5,200 reviews, which is a good sign.
Business customers rated them 8.1 for satisfaction across five service areas in 2024. This beats the average for business energy suppliers.
Their Net Promoter Score of +31 shows customers actively recommend them to others.
People often mention staff by name in reviews – Aatiqah, Leona, Harry, Kimberley, Ridhaa, and Sandra get specific praise.
Reviewers highlight the team’s patience, knowledge, and problem-solving. Many appreciate how helpful and efficient the staff are.
Channel Availability and Responsiveness
SmartestEnergy offers several ways to get support. Customers can submit meter readings 24/7 by calling 0800 088 4581.
Meter readings are also accepted by email, as long as you include your account and meter serial numbers.
Each customer gets a dedicated Account Manager and Customer Service Executive. This ensures you have consistent support.
The company resolves queries in about five days on average. They try to respond within five working days or sooner.
SmartestEnergy has a 100% site registration rate for new customers switching over, helping ensure a smooth transition.
Dispute Resolution and Complaints Procedure
Some customers share mixed experiences with support. Issues mentioned include trouble with contact procedures and refunds.
Annual customer satisfaction surveys help SmartestEnergy monitor service quality. This feedback helps spot issues early.
Their billing process aims to deliver timely and accurate bills, reducing disputes about charges or timing.
While many customers get excellent support, some do face challenges with complex issues or getting refunds sorted.
FREE QUOTE COMPARISON
Compare Business Energy Quotes from Trusted Suppliers
✓ Save up to 45% on energy bills
100% free • No obligation • Takes under 2 minutes
Sustainability and Renewable Commitments
SmartestEnergy leads on sustainable energy with verified carbon reduction targets and green programmes.
SmartestEnergy leads on sustainable energy with verified carbon reduction targets and green programmes. They provide traceable renewable electricity to thousands of business sites, and they report transparently on their own environmental impact.
Green Energy Credentials
In 2024, SmartestEnergy issued renewable energy labels to over 4,000 business sites. These labels show zero-carbon electricity, verified by the Carbon Trust.
They launched Traceable Renewable Supply to help organisations maintain best practice sustainability. This service makes it easier for businesses to prove their 100% renewable energy claims and handle environmental reporting.
SmartestEnergy partners with Ecologi to support global reforestation and carbon offset projects. This partnership extends their impact beyond just energy supply.
Their sustainability priorities include decarbonising operations and customer supply chains, increasing renewable adoption, and developing talent in sustainability. All staff receive certified carbon literacy training to better support customers on their net zero goals.
Carbon Emissions and Corporate Responsibility
SmartestEnergy’s verified carbon footprint for FY23/24 was 360.1 tCO₂e, measured using location-based reporting. They carried out a double materiality assessment to find priority areas for change.
Key emission categories:
- Scope 1: Direct emissions from company operations
- Scope 2: Indirect emissions from bought energy
- Scope 3: 47.7 tCO₂e (business travel)
They take part in EcoVadis sustainability assessments, scoring 49/100 in the ‘committed’ category. Sustainability is managed at board level with a CEO-led steering group.
SmartestEnergy supports community initiatives like STEM education and partnerships with the Women’s Utilities Network. They’ve set up ‘Giving something back’ guidelines to encourage staff volunteering in local communities.
Pros, Cons and Final Verdict
SmartestEnergy: the UK's 5th largest energy supplier by volume. Rated 4.2/5 on Trustpilot from 5,200+ reviews. Flexible contracts and certified renewable electricity. Our verdict.
SmartestEnergy brings competitive pricing and strong renewable credentials, especially for businesses after sustainable solutions.
SmartestEnergy brings competitive pricing and strong renewable credentials, especially for businesses after sustainable solutions. Customer service experiences, though, can vary quite a bit.
Benefits for Business Customers
SmartestEnergy stands out as a business energy supplier with several advantages. Their pricing is competitive, which can help cut costs for many businesses.
Their focus on renewables is a real selling point. By buying independently generated renewable energy, SmartestEnergy appeals to companies that care about the environment.
Customer service gets positive feedback from many clients. Advisors offer personalised support throughout the contract.
Flexible contract terms mean businesses can negotiate arrangements that fit their needs and budgets.
Their expertise in the business energy market helps clients navigate complicated pricing. This is valuable for those switching suppliers or renegotiating contracts.
Limitations and Common Issues
SmartestEnergy business operations run into a handful of challenges that can affect how happy customers feel. Some clients have a tough time with billing accuracy or find contract management a bit of a headache.
Customer service? It’s a mixed bag. Some people rave about the support, but others get caught up in delays or struggle to get clear answers when they need help.
Because the company focuses on business customers, smaller enterprises sometimes slip through the cracks. A few small business owners say the service doesn’t quite fit their needs.
Contracts can get complicated fast. Without some professional help, businesses often feel lost trying to figure out pricing structures or what happens if they want to leave early.
Admin processes can be a pain too. Delays pop up during switching or account setup, especially when things get busy or properties change hands.
