Business energy guidance
Opening a new site or increasing your supply capacity? Understand the connection process, likely timescales and costs before committing to your next step.
At Kilowatt Energy, we manage the full process from application to your first fixed-rate bill, helping you keep the network work and energy contract aligned.
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A physical connection and an energy supply contract are separate arrangements. Plan for both.
Start with your site
A new business energy connection establishes a permanent electricity or gas supply to premises that have never been connected, or significantly upgrades an existing supply.
Unlike switching supplier, it involves physical work. This can include laying cables or service pipes, upgrading transformers and arranging metering.
If your existing supply is suitable and you only want a different tariff, start with business energy comparison instead.
Scope, cost and timing
The infrastructure at or near your site determines how much work is needed. Confirm your capacity requirements before asking for a quotation.
For sites where the existing network is close by and standard equipment can meet your requirements.
Electricity work typically involves a new cable from the local distribution network. Gas work usually involves a service pipe from the main to your meter point.
Typically 5 to 30 working days
Most standard connections complete within this period, depending on the network operator and complexity of the site work. This is generally the fastest and least expensive route.
For sites where standard infrastructure cannot provide the voltage, capacity or access you need.
High-voltage connections, significant network reinforcement and premises far from existing network assets require a more detailed design and quotation process.
Allow for a longer programme
Large commercial and industrial projects can take significantly longer. Ask for a site-specific schedule covering design, permissions, network work and metering.
The overall range for a new connection, depending on the work required. Your opening date needs a confirmed programme, not an assumption.
Some suppliers charge nothing for a new connection; others charge hundreds. Check these fees separately from physical network costs.
You choose your business energy supplier independently of the connection. Compare supply terms as well as connection quotations.
From application to first bill
Your electricity Distribution Network Operator (DNO), or gas network operator, handles the physical network connection. Your energy supplier provides and bills for the energy you use.
These are separate commercial relationships and contracts. Metering arrangements also need to be coordinated so a completed connection is ready to use.
Gather your site address and plans, intended opening date, ownership or tenancy details, and any existing supply references. Ask your electrical or gas contractor to confirm the capacity your equipment needs.
Confirm whether you need a new supply, an upgrade or a temporary connection. Submit your requirements to the appropriate network operator.
Check the design, scope, exclusions and payment terms. Connection costs vary significantly, so get multiple quotes where available before committing.
Agree access, permissions and responsibilities for site preparation. Confirm how network work fits around your building programme and internal installation.
Compare supplier contracts and agree the supply start date. Coordinate meter installation and the checks required before the supply can be made live.
Record opening readings and check the meter details, billing dates, agreed rates and standing charges. Raise any mismatch promptly with supporting records.
Compare the whole cost
There is no single connection price for every business. Distance from the network, required capacity and site conditions all affect the work. Separate one-off costs from ongoing energy charges.
Ask which cables, pipes, reinforcement, excavation and reinstatement are included. Confirm who handles permissions and any work outside the quoted scope.
Check responsibility for internal wiring or pipework, meter housing and installation. Do not assume every contractor's work is covered by one quotation.
Compare supplier setup fees, unit rates, standing charges and contract length. Check when charges begin and how the agreement treats any delay to your opening date.
For the supply side of your project, explore our 2026 business energy comparison guide. Setting up other utilities too? We can also help with business water management.
Useful answers
A few early checks can help you avoid ordering the wrong service or setting an opening date before the supply is ready.
Your next premises. A clearer plan.
Share your site details and target opening date. We'll help you understand the connection requirements and compare the energy supply options for your business.