How to Identify and Dispute Errors on Your Commercial Energy Bill

Energy may be one of the more significant expenses in a business’s budget, but that doesn’t mean the monthly bill is always right. In fact, many businesses experience significant increases in spending each year due to billing errors, overcharges, and simple mistakes that often go unnoticed, even by the most organized companies. Both utility-supplied and supplier-generated bills can contain errors.

From misread meters to contract rates that quietly increased, even the most organized companies aren’t immune. The best way to take control of your energy spend is to review your bills carefully and regularly. Here’s how to review your commercial energy bill for errors, and what to do if you find something that doesn’t quite add up.

Scrutinize the Details

When it comes to commercial energy bills, small mistakes can add up quickly and inflate your costs without you even realizing it. A careful, step-by-step review is your best defense. Start by examining the following crucial areas to catch common problems:

• Check the Meter Readings: Compare the meter readings on your bill with your actual on-site meters. Inflated or estimated readings are one of the most common culprits behind high energy bills.
• Review Your Usage Patterns: Look at historical consumption data month by month. If you have major, unexplained spikes in your bill, that may signal a billing error or meter problem.
• Look for Fees and Surcharges: Watch for unfamiliar line items or late fees. Review past bills for sudden additions.

Compare Bills Over Time

Spotting errors is easier when you look at trends rather than one bill in isolation. Take a moment to look at both recent and past bills to ensure consistency from month to month and across all locations you manage.

• Review Previous Bills: A year-over-year comparison can quickly reveal abnormalities. Has your consumption pattern changed for no reason? Have line items or rates shifted suddenly?
• Audit Multiple Locations: If you manage multiple sites, check that you’re not accidentally being billed for an address or meter that isn’t yours.

Cross-Reference Your Contract

Reviewing your energy contract alongside your bill is a crucial step in ensuring you’re being charged correctly. Contracts can include rate caps, exemptions, or discounts that aren’t always reflected in your monthly statement.

• Double-Check Terms: Pull out your energy supply contract with your supplier and match up these terms against the bill. Are all promised caps, exemptions, or rebates from your supplier being properly applied?

Dispute Billing Errors

If you spot an error, acting quickly improves your chances of getting a correction or refund. Below are a few steps to guide you through that process:

• Gather Your Evidence: Clearly document the error, including copies of the bill, meter readings, contracts, or any other relevant correspondence.
• Contact Your Supplier: Reach out to your supplier’s billing department. Most have dedicated processes for these types of situations.
• Submit Your Dispute: Provide a concise, but detailed written explanation, attach your evidence, and request a correction or refund in line with your contractual agreement.
• Follow Up: Track your complaint, set reminders, and escalate if you don’t receive a timely resolution.

Protect Your Bottom Line

Even with a thorough review, billing errors and confusing line items can be overwhelming. That’s where expert support can make a difference.

Catalyst Power® offers custom-priced retail electricity packages designed for commercial businesses. By working with our team, you gain confidence that your bills align with your contract—and protection against unnecessary costs and market volatility.