How long does it take to switch energy supplier?

Switching energy suppliers in the UK typically takes up to 5 working days to complete, thanks to Ofgem's Faster Switching rules. This streamlined process means you can often move to a new provider and tariff much quicker than in previous years. The old notion of switches taking 21 days or longer is now outdated.

Switching energy suppliers can feel like a big step, but with Fuse Energy, it is designed to be simple and transparent. We focus on clear pricing and an easy-to-use app to help you manage your energy. Click here to switch to Fuse Energy today.

The UK energy switching timeline: 5 working days

The energy market has evolved to make switching simpler and faster for consumers. Two key timelines govern the process: the actual switch duration and your right to cancel.

Understanding the 5-working-day standard

Under Ofgem's Faster Switching rules, introduced in July 2022 and fully aligned with Guaranteed Standard 6ZA from April 2024, domestic energy supplier transfers must complete within 5 working days of the contract agreement. This timeframe applies from the day you agree to a new contract and provide all necessary information. If you agree to a contract after 5pm on a working day, the window effectively extends to 6 working days. No physical work is required at your property during this process; the change happens through national industry systems.

The 14-day cooling-off period explained

Alongside the 5-working-day switch, you also have a 14-calendar-day cooling-off period. This period starts from when you submit your switch request (the day the contract is agreed). This allows you to cancel without penalty. Crucially, the cooling-off period runs in parallel with the switch, not delaying it, meaning your supply can transfer well within this 14-day window. You can cancel your switch during this period before your supply has transferred. Once your supply has transferred, the switch is complete and cannot be cancelled; you would need to switch to another supplier if you wished to leave.

Compensation for delayed switches

If your new supplier fails to complete your switch within 5 working days, you are entitled to £40 in compensation. This payment is made automatically by the new supplier directly into your energy account or bank account. Further £40 payments can be due for other related failures, such as if the supplier misses the deadline to pay the compensation owed, or if your supply is switched by mistake.

Your step-by-step guide to switching energy suppliers

Switching energy suppliers is a straightforward process designed to be managed by your new provider.

Comparing deals and choosing your new supplier

The first step is to compare energy suppliers and choose a new tariff that suits your needs. Consider your typical energy usage - the average UK home uses around 2,500 kWh of electricity and 9,500 kWh of gas per year. Knowing your household's typical consumption is crucial for accurately comparing tariffs and finding the best energy deal. When comparing deals, it is also worth considering how your energy supplier can support broader home efficiency goals, such as understanding the efficiency of air source heat pumps.

Providing your information

Once you have chosen a new supplier, you will need to provide them with your personal details and supply information. This typically includes your address, contact details, and current meter readings.

The switch in progress

Your new supplier will then initiate the switch request through industry systems. They will handle all the coordination with your previous supplier. During this time, your energy supply will not be interrupted; it is a seamless transfer of billing responsibility.

Final meter readings and bills

After your supply transfers, you will need to submit final meter readings to ensure accurate billing from both your old and new suppliers. If you have a smart meter, your new supplier will often connect to it and obtain these readings automatically. If you have a traditional meter, you will typically be asked to provide a reading within 5 days of your switch date. Your old supplier will then send you a final bill, and any credit balance you had should be refunded by them directly.

Common questions and concerns about switching

Addressing common concerns can make the switching process even smoother.

Switching with outstanding debt

If you have outstanding debt with your current supplier, your ability to switch depends on your meter type and the amount owed. For prepayment meter customers, the Debt Assignment Protocol (DAP) allows you to switch with up to £500 of debt per fuel (i.e., up to £500 for electricity and up to £500 for gas). Your new supplier may agree to take on this debt, which you would then repay to them.

For credit meter customers, if your debt is less than 28 days old, it will typically be added to your final bill. However, if the debt is older than 28 days, your current supplier may object to the switch until the debt is cleared.

Smart meters and the switching process

You do not need a smart meter to switch energy suppliers. Fuse Energy supports both smart and traditional meters for standard tariffs. If you have a smart meter, it can streamline the process by providing automatic meter readings, making billing more accurate and reducing the need for manual submissions. Modern energy suppliers can also help you understand the benefits of an air source heat pump as part of a more efficient home energy setup.

What if my switch is objected or rejected?

Occasionally, a switch might be objected to or rejected. Common reasons for an objection include outstanding debt with your previous supplier or if another switch is already in progress. If your switch is objected, you should contact your previous supplier to resolve the issue. If it is rejected, reasons can include invalid timing or another switch in progress. In such cases, a new switch request may be required once the underlying issue is resolved.

What happens after you switch to a new supplier?

Once your switch is complete, you become an active customer with your new supplier.

Your first bill and account management

Your new supplier will issue your first bill, typically covering the period from your switch-in date. Fuse Energy, for example, issues bills on the 2nd working day of each month for the previous month's usage. You can manage your account, view your usage, and access billing information through your supplier's app or online portal.

Connecting your smart meter

If you have a smart meter, your new supplier will connect to it after your switch is complete. This enables automatic readings and allows you to view your energy usage in near real-time through their app.

Managing credit with your previous supplier

If you had a credit balance with your old supplier, it does not automatically transfer to your new account. You will need to contact your previous supplier directly to request a refund.

Why switch energy suppliers?

Switching energy suppliers offers several benefits, from financial savings to improved service.

Finding a better deal

Comparing energy prices and switching to a new supplier is one of the most effective ways to find a better deal and potentially reduce your energy bills. With the 5-working-day switch, you can quickly take advantage of more competitive tariffs.

Improved customer service

A new supplier can offer improved customer service, including digital tools for managing your account and responsive support. Fuse Energy, for instance, offers 24/7 human customer support, ensuring you always have help when you need it.

Supporting modern energy solutions

By choosing a forward-thinking energy supplier, you can support companies that prioritise transparent processes and modern energy solutions. This aligns with a vision for a future where energy is abundant and easy to manage.

Ready to take control of your energy and experience a seamless switch? Fuse Energy makes the process simple and transparent, aligning with the modern 5-working-day standard. Discover clear pricing and empowering tools to manage your energy. Click here to switch to Fuse Energy today. You can also find out more about our mission to make energy abundant by clicking here.