Key dates for UK businesses this winter

A lot lands between now and the new year. Here are the dates worth putting in your diary, with what each one means.

28th October: Autumn Budget

The Chancellor sets out tax and spending plans. Industry has asked for help with electricity bills, but nothing has been promised. The only firm commitment so far is to business rates reform. HM Treasury: Budget date

25th November: January price cap announced

By this date, Ofgem will announce the household price cap for January. It doesn't cover business contracts, but it's a useful sign of where prices are heading. Cornwall Insight currently forecasts a rise of about 16%. Ofgem price cap

30th November: BICS applications close at 11:59pm

The British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme closes to applications at 11:59pm. If you think you might qualify, check the guidance now rather than in the last week. BICS guidance for applicants

5th December: ESOS progress update

ESOS is the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme, which applies to larger businesses. If your business took part in Phase 3, a progress update is due by 5th December, showing what you've done towards the energy savings you planned. ESOS guidance

1st January 2027: UK CBAM starts

A carbon charge applies to imported iron and steel, aluminium, cement, fertiliser and hydrogen, including items such as bolts, screws and aluminium sheet. Businesses importing £50,000 or more of these goods will need to register, report and pay. HMRC CBAM policy summary

And just after: 1st April 2027

Grid charges and the Climate Change Levy go up. If your contract passes these through, budget for it now. HMRC Climate Change Levy rates

A simple plan

• Pick one person to own each date.
• Check the BICS and ESOS dates first, because they're deadlines, not announcements.
• Read your energy contract before April.

If you'd like help with any of these, get in touch. Numbers and options, no hard sell.