| Energy Bills |
Business energy meters in the UK include half-hourly (HH), AMR, and smart meters. Profile classes determine settlement. Since 2017, P272 moved many to HH. In 2026, HH meters are mandatory for high usage. Data access varies by meter type. The figures above are as published by the named sources on the review date and are checked against the tables in
This guide explains UK business energy meter types, focusing on half-hourly meters, their obligations, benefits, and how they differ from AMR and smart meters.
KEY FACTS
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LAST REVIEWED 2026-09-06
What are the different types of business energy meters in the UK?
Business energy meters in the UK fall into several categories: standard meters, AMR (automatic meter reading), smart meters, and half-hourly (HH) meters. The type affects how consumption is measured, billed, and settled. This guide focuses on half-hourly meters, which record usage every 30 minutes.
The main types are: standard (non-smart) meters, which require manual reads; AMR meters, which transmit data remotely but not necessarily every half-hour; smart meters, which provide near-real-time data to both supplier and customer; and HH meters, which are mandatory for high-usage sites. Each type has different data capabilities and settlement implications.
For businesses, the choice of meter type is often dictated by consumption levels and regulatory requirements. Since 2017, many businesses have been migrated to HH metering under P272. In 2026, HH meters are required for sites with high usage, typically those with a maximum demand above 100 kW.
Understanding the differences helps businesses manage energy costs and data access. The type of meter also influences eligibility for various tariffs and the accuracy of billing.
What is a half-hourly electricity meter and how does it work?
A half-hourly (HH) electricity meter records consumption every 30 minutes, providing detailed data on when energy is used. This data is used for settlement and enables time-of-use tariffs. HH meters are typically installed at larger commercial and industrial sites.
HH meters communicate data remotely via a data collector to the supplier and network operator. This allows for accurate billing based on actual consumption, rather than estimates. The data is also used to calculate capacity charges, which are based on the maximum demand in any half-hour period.
For businesses, HH metering offers several benefits: accurate billing, the ability to shift usage to cheaper periods, and better energy management. However, it also means exposure to half-hourly pricing, which can be volatile.
In 2026, HH meters are mandatory for sites with a maximum demand above 100 kW, but many smaller businesses also have them voluntarily. The data from HH meters is essential for participation in demand response and other flexibility services.
| Rule | Detail | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic price cap | does not apply to non-domestic contracts | Ofgem |
| Microbusiness test | fewer than 10 employees and under 2 million euros turnover, or under 100,000 kWh electricity or 293,000 kWh gas a year | Ofgem |
| VAT | 20% standard; 5% reduced rate below 33 kWh electricity or 145 kWh gas a day | HMRC |
| Complaints | Energy Ombudsman after 8 weeks or deadlock letter | Energy Ombudsman |
What are profile classes and how do they relate to business meters?
Profile classes are categories used in electricity settlement to estimate consumption patterns for non-half-hourly (NHH) meters.
These classes determine the settlement method and the shape of the load profile used to estimate consumption.
This means they no longer rely on profile classes for settlement but instead use actual half-hourly data.
In 2026, profile classes still exist for smaller non-domestic sites that are not HH. Understanding the profile class helps businesses know how their consumption is estimated and billed.
What is P272 and how did it change business metering?
P272 is a modification to the Balancing and Settlement Code (BSC) that required mandatory half-hourly settlement for many non-domestic sites.
Before P272, these sites were settled using estimated load profiles. P272 mandated that they have HH meters installed and be settled on actual half-hourly data. This was a significant change for many businesses, as it meant more accurate billing but also exposure to half-hourly pricing.
The legacy of P272 is that most medium and large businesses now have HH meters. This has enabled more sophisticated energy management and the growth of flexibility services. However, it also means that businesses must monitor their consumption more closely to avoid peak demand charges.
In 2026, P272 remains relevant as the foundation for HH metering. New sites that meet the criteria are still required to have HH meters installed.
What is an AMR meter and how does it differ from a smart meter?
AMR (automatic meter reading) meters are an older technology that transmits consumption data remotely, typically on a daily or monthly basis. They do not provide half-hourly data unless specifically configured. Smart meters, on the other hand, provide near-real-time data and can communicate in half-hourly intervals.
AMR meters were commonly installed for businesses to avoid manual reads. They use various communication methods, such as mobile networks or radio. Smart meters use a dedicated national network (DCC) and offer more functionality, including in-home displays and remote switching.
For businesses, the key difference is data granularity and access. Smart meters can provide half-hourly data, making them suitable for HH settlement, while AMR meters may not. However, AMR meters are still used in some contexts, particularly where smart meters are not yet available.
In 2026, smart meters are being rolled out to businesses, but AMR meters remain in use. The choice between them depends on the supplier and the specific needs of the site.
What are the obligations and benefits of half-hourly metering for businesses?
Half-hourly metering is mandatory for sites with a maximum demand above 100 kW, but many smaller businesses choose it for the benefits. The main obligation is to have a HH meter installed and to provide data for settlement.
Benefits include accurate billing, the ability to take advantage of time-of-use tariffs, and better energy management. HH data allows businesses to identify peak usage and shift consumption to cheaper periods. It also enables participation in demand response schemes.
However, HH metering also means exposure to half-hourly pricing, which can be volatile. Businesses need to monitor their consumption to avoid high peak charges. The data can also be used to negotiate better contracts with suppliers.
In 2026, HH metering is standard for many businesses. The obligations are set out in the BSC, and suppliers are responsible for ensuring compliance.
| Date | Event | Source |
|---|---|---|
| January 2019 | Default tariff cap introduced | Ofgem |
| October 2022 | Cap moves to quarterly reviews | Ofgem |
| July 2026 | Typical consumption values reset to 2,500 kWh electricity and 9,500 kWh gas | Ofgem |
| 26 August 2026 | Q4 2026 cap announced at £1,723 | Ofgem |
| 1 October 2026 | Q4 cap in force; VAT on domestic electricity cut to 0% until 31 March 2027 | Ofgem |
How can a business check its meter data and access consumption records?
Businesses can access their meter data through their supplier or via a data collector. For HH meters, data is available in half-hourly intervals and can be accessed through online portals or APIs. For AMR and smart meters, data may be available less frequently.
To check meter data, businesses should request access to their data from their supplier. Many suppliers offer online portals where customers can view their consumption. For HH meters, data is also available from the Data Aggregator.
It is important for businesses to regularly review their meter data to ensure accuracy and identify opportunities for savings. Discrepancies should be reported to the supplier.
In 2026, data access is improving with smart meters, but businesses should be proactive in requesting data. The Energy Ombudsman can help resolve disputes.
What should a business consider when choosing a meter type?
When choosing a meter type, businesses should consider their consumption levels, the need for half-hourly data, and the cost of installation. HH meters are more expensive but offer more detailed data. AMR and smart meters may be cheaper but have limitations.
Businesses with high usage (above 100 kW) are required to have HH meters. Smaller businesses may choose HH meters to access time-of-use tariffs or to prepare for future requirements. Smart meters are being rolled out and may become the standard.
It is also important to consider the supplier's capabilities and the terms of the contract. Some suppliers may offer incentives for certain meter types.
In 2026, the choice is often dictated by regulation, but businesses should evaluate their energy management needs.
How do business energy meters affect energy bills and tariffs?
The type of meter affects how energy is billed. HH meters allow for time-of-use tariffs, where prices vary by half-hour. AMR and smart meters may be billed on a simpler tariff structure.
HH meters also incur capacity charges based on maximum demand. This can be a significant part of the bill. Businesses with HH meters need to manage their peak demand to control costs.
Smart meters can provide data to help businesses understand their usage and potentially switch to more suitable tariffs. However, the actual tariff depends on the supplier and market conditions.
In 2026, the energy price cap does not apply to non-domestic contracts, so businesses are exposed to market prices. Meter type influences the pricing structure available.
What is the future of business metering in the UK?
The future of business metering is likely to see wider adoption of smart meters and increased use of half-hourly data. The government and Ofgem are promoting smart metering for all, and by 2026, many businesses will have smart meters.
There is also a move towards more flexible energy use, with businesses using their data to shift consumption and participate in demand response. This requires HH data, which smart meters can provide.
In the longer term, half-hourly settlement may become the norm for all consumers, not just businesses. This would require widespread smart metering.
For now, businesses should ensure they have the right meter for their needs and use the data to manage their energy costs effectively.
Glossary: the terms on an energy bill explained
Half-hourly (HH) meter: A meter that records electricity consumption every 30 minutes, enabling accurate settlement and time-of-use tariffs.
AMR meter: Automatic meter reading meter that transmits data remotely, but not necessarily in half-hourly intervals.
Smart meter: A meter that provides near-real-time data and communicates via a national network, supporting half-hourly readings.
Profile class: A category used for settlement of non-half-hourly meters, based on consumption patterns and maximum demand.
P272: A modification to the Balancing and Settlement Code that mandated half-hourly settlement for many non-domestic sites from 2017.
Settlement: The process of reconciling energy consumption with supplier purchases, using meter data or estimates.
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Disclaimer. This guide is editorial information drawn from primary sources. It is not financial, legal or tax advice and does not recommend any provider. Figures are those published by the named sources on the review date and may change. Kael Tripton Ltd receives no commission, referral fee or lead payment from any provider named on this page. |
Frequently asked questions
What is a half-hourly electricity meter?
A half-hourly meter records electricity usage every 30 minutes. This data is used for accurate billing and settlement. It is mandatory for sites with high demand, typically above 100 kW. Many businesses have them voluntarily to access time-of-use tariffs and better manage energy costs.
Are half-hourly meters compulsory for businesses?
Yes, for sites with a maximum demand above 100 kW, half-hourly metering is compulsory under the Balancing and Settlement Code. Smaller businesses may also be required if they fall under certain criteria. Since 2017, P272 has migrated many businesses to HH metering.
What is the difference between AMR and smart meters?
AMR meters transmit data remotely but often not in half-hourly intervals. Smart meters provide near-real-time data and can record half-hourly readings. Smart meters use a dedicated network and offer more functionality, such as remote switching and in-home displays.
How can I check the business meter data?
You can request access to your meter data from your supplier. Many suppliers offer online portals. For half-hourly meters, data is available in half-hourly intervals. If you have a smart meter, you may have access to near-real-time data through an app or portal.
Does the energy price cap apply to business meters?
No, the energy price cap does not apply to non-domestic contracts. Businesses are exposed to market prices. However, there are protections for microbusinesses, such as the microbusiness test, which considers employee numbers and energy usage.
What is P272 and why is it important?
P272 is a modification to the Balancing and Settlement Code that required mandatory half-hourly settlement for many non-domestic sites. It came into effect in 2017, meaning many businesses had to have HH meters installed. This improved accuracy but also exposed businesses to half-hourly pricing.
