The energy price is important—but the contract wrapped around it can matter just as much.

Volume tolerances, change-in-law provisions, pass-through charges and termination rights may not attract much attention when a quote lands.

They often become much more interesting once circumstances change.

Before signing, businesses should understand:

* How far consumption can vary
* Which charges can be amended
* What happens if a site closes or usage falls
* Where the commercial risk actually sits

A competitive price attached to unsuitable terms may prove expensive later.

If you are comparing energy offers, compare the contract—not just the pence per kWh.