Changing your electricity supplier

Changing your electricity supplier is a straightforward process that puts you in control of your energy choices. It is a move that can lead to better value, improved customer service, or a supplier whose values align with your own. The UK energy market, regulated by Ofgem, ensures a fair and secure switching experience, making it simpler than many people imagine.

Switching your electricity supplier can feel like a big step, but with Fuse Energy, it is designed to be simple and transparent. We focus on making your energy experience straightforward, so you can take control of your home's power. Click here to switch to Fuse Energy today.

Why consider changing your electricity supplier?

Switching electricity suppliers is more than just chasing the cheapest deal; it is about making a "power play" that gives you greater control and transparency over your home energy. Several factors might prompt you to consider a change.

Seeking better value and tariffs

The most common reason to switch is to find a better tariff and potentially lower your energy bills. Energy prices fluctuate, and new deals are constantly emerging. If you are on a Standard Variable Tariff or your fixed-term contract has ended, you could be paying more than necessary. Regularly comparing tariffs ensures you are not overpaying for your electricity.

Improving customer service

Poor customer service can be a significant source of frustration. If you are tired of long wait times, unhelpful responses, or difficulties managing your account, switching to a provider with a strong reputation for customer support can make a substantial difference to your energy experience.

Aligning with green energy values

Many suppliers now offer tariffs that source electricity from renewable generation. If reducing your carbon footprint and supporting sustainable energy is a priority, switching to a supplier committed to green energy can align your household's consumption with your environmental values. For those considering further steps towards sustainable living, exploring options like an air source heat pump grant could also be beneficial.

Taking control of your energy

Beyond cost and ethics, switching empowers you to actively manage your energy. A modern energy supplier can offer tools and insights to help you understand and optimise your usage. The average UK home uses around 2,500 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per year, a figure that can be better managed with the right provider.

How to change electricity supplier: a step-by-step guide

The process of changing your electricity supplier is designed to be simple, speedy, and safe, thanks to regulations from Ofgem and the Energy Switch Guarantee.

Gather your current energy information

Before you start, have a recent energy bill to hand. This document contains crucial details such as your current supplier's name, your existing tariff, your annual energy consumption in kWh, and your Meter Point Administration Number (MPAN). If you cannot find a bill, your postcode, current supplier, and tariff name can often suffice.

Compare tariffs and providers

Use an Ofgem-accredited comparison service to explore available tariffs and suppliers. These services allow you to input your usage details to find the most suitable and cost-effective options for your household. Focus on the total annual cost, including unit rates and standing charges, and check for any exit fees if you are on a fixed contract.

Initiate your switch with a new supplier

Once you have chosen a new supplier and tariff, you can initiate the switch directly with them, often online or via their app. Your new provider will handle the entire switching process with your current supplier, so you typically do not need to contact your old provider to tell them you are leaving. You will usually have a 14-day cooling-off period, which starts from when your switch request is submitted, during which you can cancel the switch without penalty.

Provide final meter readings

Around the time of your switch, your new supplier will ask you for a meter reading. This reading is vital for your old supplier to generate an accurate final bill and for your new supplier to start your account correctly. If you have a smart meter, readings are often sent automatically, but it is still wise to check.

Confirm your new supply

After the switch is complete, your old supplier will send you a final bill within eight weeks of the contract ending. Any credit balance should be refunded within 10 working days of receiving that final bill. You will not experience any interruption to your electricity supply during the switch; only the billing changes.

Key considerations before you switch

Navigating the energy market requires understanding a few key elements to ensure a smooth transition.

Understanding your current contract

Before switching, check the terms of your current contract. If you are on a fixed-term tariff, there might be exit fees for leaving before the contract ends. However, Ofgem rules state that suppliers cannot charge an exit fee if you switch in the last 49 days of your contract. If you are on a Standard Variable Tariff, you can switch at any time without incurring exit fees.

Switching with a smart meter versus traditional meter

You can switch suppliers whether you have a smart meter or a traditional meter. Smart meters can continue to function with your new provider, automatically sending readings and enabling access to smart tariffs. If you have a traditional meter, you will need to provide manual readings.

Your rights and the energy switch guarantee

The Energy Switch Guarantee is a set of commitments that many suppliers voluntarily sign up to, ensuring a reliable and hassle-free switch. It guarantees:

• No interruption to your energy supply.
• The switch will be completed within 5 working days.
• A 14-day cooling-off period to change your mind without penalty.
• Your new supplier will handle the entire switching process.
• You will receive your final bill within eight weeks of the switch, and any credit balance will be refunded within 10 working days of receiving that final bill.

Common questions about changing energy suppliers

Switching energy suppliers often brings up a few common queries. Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.

Can I switch if I rent my home?

Yes, you can switch electricity suppliers if you rent your home, provided you are responsible for paying the energy bills directly to the supplier. You do not need your landlord's permission, but it is often courteous to inform them. If your landlord pays the supplier directly, you would need to discuss options with them.

What if I owe money to my current supplier?

You can often switch suppliers even if you have an outstanding balance, but the rules vary depending on your meter type and the amount owed.

• Credit meters: If your debt is less than 28 days old, you can usually switch, and the debt will be added to your final bill. If the debt is older than 28 days, your current supplier can block the switch until you repay it.
• Prepayment meters: You may be able to switch if you owe £500 or less per fuel (i.e., up to £500 on electricity and up to £500 on gas), as your new supplier may agree to take on this debt under the Debt Assignment Protocol (DAP). You will repay it to them through your new prepayment meter. If you owe more than £500 per fuel, you will typically need to reduce the debt before switching.

How long does the switching process take?

Thanks to Ofgem's Faster Switching rules, most energy switches are completed within 5 working days from the date your new supplier receives your application. If your new supplier fails to complete the switch within 5 working days, they must pay you £40 in compensation.

Does switching affect my credit score?

Comparing energy deals will not affect your credit score. However, when you formally apply to switch, most suppliers will run a credit check. This is usually a 'soft' check, which does not impact your credit score. In rare cases, a 'hard' check might be performed, which can temporarily affect your score, but a single check usually has a minimal and short-lived impact. Regularly missing energy payments, however, can negatively affect your credit report.

What happens if I have a radio Teleswitch service (RTS) meter?

Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) meters are a legacy meter type that uses a radio signal to switch between peak and off-peak rates. The RTS signal is being phased out, having started on 30 June 2025. If you have an RTS meter, your current supplier is responsible for replacing it with a smart meter. You cannot complete a switch to Fuse Energy while you still have an RTS meter, as it is an unsupported meter type. Once your current supplier has replaced your RTS meter with a smart meter, you can then switch to a modern provider.

Making an empowering 'power play' with Fuse Energy

Switching to Fuse Energy is an empowering "power play" that shifts control and advantage directly to you, the customer. It contrasts with the traditional industry mindset by focusing on abundance and transparency, rather than simply encouraging you to "use less."

Seamless digital experience

Fuse Energy aims to offer a digital-first experience, putting control directly into your hands. The Fuse Energy app is designed to help you manage your account and understand your usage. This transparency simplifies the switching process and ongoing energy management.

24/7 human support for peace of mind

Even with the most advanced digital tools, sometimes you need to speak to a person. Fuse Energy provides 24/7 human customer support, ensuring that assistance is always available when you need it. This round-the-clock support alleviates anxieties during the switching process and beyond, offering peace of mind.

A future-focused energy partner

Fuse Energy positions itself as a forward-thinking energy partner, aligning with a future of abundance rather than scarcity. By choosing Fuse, you are opting for a modern, responsive energy experience that empowers you with greater control and a clear path to understanding and managing your energy usage. For more details on how we are building this future, you can explore our mission here.

Managing your energy bills should be clear and easy to understand. Fuse Energy focuses on straightforward pricing, so you can see exactly what you are paying without unnecessary complexity. We aim to provide tools and insights to help you understand and optimise your usage. Our 24/7 human support team is always on hand whenever you need help. Click here to switch to Fuse Energy today. Find out about our mission by clicking here.