Commercial energy theft rises sharply across UK businesses

13 January 2026

New national data analysed by Stay Energy Safe, the anonymous reporting service operated by Crimestoppers, shows that confirmed cases of commercial energy theft have risen sharply between 2022/23 and 2024/25, with sustained, triple-digit increases across both gas and electricity.

These illegal activities not only put businesses and the public at risk but also unfairly increase costs for honest bill payers, who ultimately bear the financial burden. 

Commercial electricity theft increased by 88% between 2022/23 and 2023/24, followed by a further 18% rise last year, producing a total three-year increase of 122%. Gas theft has grown even more rapidly, climbing 152% in the first year and a further 59% in 2024/25, resulting in a cumulative rise of 300%. Across both energy types, the average increase in confirmed commercial energy theft since 2022/23 is 138%.

The surge is affecting a broad range of commercial premises, from shops and restaurants to offices, warehouses and industrial units. Commercial cases now represent a larger share of all confirmed energy theft than they did three years ago, highlighting a shifting risk profile for the sector.

Rising costs and operational pressures are cited as contributing factors. Cadent’s Energy Diaries 2025 – Voices of Small Organisations found that energy costs can account for up to 30% of operating expenses for some SMEs, while many charities and small businesses are actively reducing or rationing energy use. A significant proportion also report concern about business viability over the next five years.

While most organisations respond lawfully, a minority are resorting to illegal meter tampering. Stay Energy Safe warns that such practices carry serious risks, including gas leaks, fires, electric shocks, power outages and damage to neighbouring premises. Tampered meters can also lead to criminal prosecution and substantial financial penalties.

In many cases, the motivation is not financial pressure but deliberate attempts to maximise profit, with some choosing to bypass meters despite understanding the risks. These costs and risks are then passed on to honest billpayers.

Because commercial units often share buildings or operate in high-footfall areas, a single compromised meter can endanger multiple businesses, workers and the public. The service encourages anonymous reporting of suspicious activity, including damaged or bypassed meters, exposed wiring, unusual smells or sounds, and unusually low bills.

Stay Energy Safe provides a 24-hour anonymous reporting service by phone and online.

Call 0800 023 2777 or report online at www.stayenergysafe.co.uk