Switching energy supplier in the UK is a straightforward digital process that can lead to better deals, improved customer service, or greener energy options. The entire transfer typically completes within 5 working days, with no physical work required at your property.
Considering a switch to a new energy supplier? Fuse Energy makes the process simple, with clear pricing and dedicated support. Click here to get started.
Even if you are satisfied with your current provider, regularly reviewing your energy options can be beneficial. The energy market is dynamic, and new tariffs and services frequently emerge.
Finding a better deal
Energy prices fluctuate, and new suppliers often enter the market with competitive offers. Comparing tariffs can reveal significant savings on your annual energy bills, ensuring you are not paying more than necessary for your gas and electricity.
Improving customer service
If you have experienced issues with billing, communication, or support from your current supplier, switching can provide access to better customer service. A provider that offers clear communication and readily available support can make a substantial difference to your experience. Fuse, for example, offers 24/7 human customer support, ensuring help is always available.
Supporting greener energy options
Many suppliers now offer tariffs backed by renewable energy sources. If reducing your carbon footprint is a priority, switching to a supplier with a higher proportion of green energy in their fuel mix allows you to align your energy consumption with your environmental values.
Before initiating a switch, gathering a few key pieces of information will streamline the process. This preparation ensures you can accurately compare tariffs and complete your application efficiently.
Gathering your current energy information
You will need details from a recent energy bill, including your current tariff name, unit rates, and standing charges. Crucially, locate your Meter Point Administration Number (MPAN) for electricity and Meter Point Reference Number (MPRN) for gas. These unique identifiers ensure your new supplier can correctly identify your supply points.
Understanding your energy usage
Knowing your annual electricity and gas consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh) is essential for accurate comparisons. According to Ofgem's medium typical domestic consumption values (TDCV) effective 1 July 2026, the average UK home uses around 2,500 kWh of electricity per year and 9,500 kWh of gas per year. This information is usually found on your annual energy statement or recent bills.
Checking your meter type
Identify whether you have a standard (manual) meter or a smart meter. Smart meters automatically send readings, simplifying the switching process and enabling access to certain tariffs. If you have a manual meter, you will need to provide readings yourself during the switch.
Switching energy suppliers is a straightforward process, designed to be completed quickly and with minimal fuss.
Compare tariffs and suppliers
Start by comparing available tariffs from different suppliers. Use your annual energy usage figures to get the most accurate quotes. Look beyond just the unit rates; consider standing charges, contract length, exit fees, and customer service ratings.
Initiate your switch with a new provider
Once you have chosen a new supplier and tariff, you can initiate the switch directly through their website or app. You will need to provide your personal details, your MPAN and MPRN, and your bank details for setting up payments. The 14-day cooling-off period for your new energy contract begins when you submit this switch request, not from the date your supply actually starts.
The switching process: from request to activation
After you submit your request, your new supplier handles the entire transfer with your old provider through national industry systems. This digital process means no physical work is required at your property. Domestic energy supplier switches must complete within 5 working days under Ofgem's Faster Switching rules. If your switch is not completed within this timeframe, you are entitled to £40 compensation, as per Ofgem's Guaranteed Standards, paid automatically by your new supplier.
Providing your final meter readings
Your new supplier will request a final meter reading to ensure accurate billing from both your old and new providers. If you have a smart meter, this reading is often taken automatically. For manual meters, you will need to provide the reading yourself, typically on the day your supply switches over, or within a few days of it.
Several factors can influence your switching experience. Understanding these can help you navigate the process without unexpected issues.
Switching if you rent your home
If you rent your home, you generally have the right to switch energy suppliers. Your landlord cannot unreasonably prevent you from changing suppliers, especially if you are responsible for paying the energy bills. However, it is always wise to check your tenancy agreement for any specific clauses regarding energy suppliers and to inform your landlord of your intention to switch.
Understanding credit checks and your credit score
When you apply to switch, your new supplier will typically perform a credit check. This helps them assess your ability to pay your bills. If you are asked for an initial deposit before switching, this means our industry partner for credit checks has flagged your account. In line with our credit policy, when we receive one of these flags, we ask for an initial deposit when you open your account. The deposit will only go toward your future bills with us.
Switching with outstanding debt
If you have outstanding debt with your current supplier, it can sometimes complicate a switch. However, if you have a prepayment meter and owe up to £500 per fuel (electricity or gas), as set by Ofgem's Debt Assignment Protocol, you may still be able to switch. Your new supplier may agree to take on this debt as part of the transfer. For credit meter customers, outstanding debt may lead to an objection from your current supplier, preventing the switch.
The 14-day cooling-off period explained
You have a 14-day cooling-off period during which you can cancel your new energy contract without penalty. This period starts from the day you submit your switch request, not when your energy supply actually begins. Since switches now complete within 5 working days, your supply will often start well within this cooling-off window.
Once your switch is complete, you will begin a new relationship with your chosen supplier. Here is what to expect.
Your first bill with your new supplier
Your first bill from your new supplier will reflect your energy usage from your switch-in date. It is important to review this bill carefully to ensure all details are correct, including your meter readings and tariff rates. If you had a smart meter, Fuse connects to it after switch-in and sends those readings to your old supplier for the final bill. If you have a manual meter, you should submit readings in the Fuse app within 5 days so billing is correct; Fuse sends those same readings to your previous supplier for the final bill.
Managing credit with your previous supplier
If you had a credit balance with your old supplier, this credit does not automatically transfer to your new account. You will need to contact your previous supplier directly to arrange a refund to your bank account.
Getting used to your new energy account
Familiarise yourself with your new supplier's online account management tools or app. This is where you will typically manage your tariff, submit meter readings (if applicable), view your usage, and access customer support. Fuse offers a digital-first experience with 24/7 human customer support, making it easier to manage your energy.
How long does it take to switch?
Energy supplier switches in Great Britain typically complete within 5 working days. This is mandated by Ofgem's Faster Switching rules. You can also request a later start date if that suits you better.
Will my energy supply be interrupted?
No, your energy supply will not be interrupted during a switch. The process is entirely administrative, handled by industry systems. Your gas and electricity will continue to flow without any break.
What if something goes wrong during the switch?
If you encounter any issues during your switch, such as delays or objections, your new supplier should be your first point of contact. If your switch is not completed within 5 working days, you are entitled to £40 compensation, paid automatically by your new supplier. If you cannot resolve the issue with your supplier, you can escalate your complaint to the Energy Ombudsman.
