Setting up energy for your new flat
Moving into a new flat is an exciting milestone, but the energy setup can often feel like a complex puzzle. Many people, especially those new to managing their own utilities, struggle to find genuinely cost-effective, hassle-free energy solutions without feeling guilty about their consumption. This guide cuts through the complexity, empowering you to make smart energy choices from day one, so you can enjoy your new home without the usual energy anxieties.
Setting up energy in your new flat can be simple with Fuse Energy. Discover how our app and tariffs can help you manage your energy from day one. Click here to get started.
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Your first steps: energy setup in your new flat
The first few days in your new place are crucial for setting up your energy correctly. Ignoring these initial steps can lead to unnecessary stress and incorrect bills down the line.
Taking meter readings on moving day
When you first step into your new flat, make it a priority to locate your electricity and gas meters. Take clear, accurate photos of the meter readings on the day you move in. This simple act helps prevent you from being incorrectly charged for the previous occupant's energy consumption. Once you have these readings, submit them to the existing energy supplier for your property. This establishes a clear start date for your responsibility.
Identifying your current supplier and tariff
You might assume you can pick your energy supplier immediately, but your new flat will already have one. Your first task is to identify who supplies your gas and electricity. You can often find this information on a previous bill left by the last tenant or owner, or by asking your landlord or letting agent. If that fails, online tools can help you find your gas and electricity suppliers using your postcode.1 For gas, you can use the "Find My Supplier" website or call the Meter Number Helpline. For electricity, you'll first need to identify your Distribution Network Operator (DNO) using the Energy Networks Association's tool, then contact them for your supplier's details. Once identified, contact them to let them know you have moved in. You will likely be placed on a 'deemed' or 'default' tariff initially.
Understanding your rights as a new occupant
As a new occupant, you have specific rights regarding your energy supply. Ofgem, the UK's energy regulator, oversees the gas and electricity markets and protects consumers.2 This means you have rights concerning switching suppliers, managing your account, and receiving accurate billing. You are not tied to the previous occupant's tariff indefinitely; you have the freedom to compare and switch to a deal that better suits your needs.
Choosing the right energy tariff for your new home
Navigating energy tariffs can feel overwhelming, but understanding the basics will help you find a plan that supports your lifestyle and budget.
Fixed vs variable tariffs explained
Energy tariffs generally fall into two main categories: fixed and variable. A fixed tariff means the unit price you pay for your energy (per kilowatt-hour, or kWh) and your standing charge remain the same for a set period, typically 12 to 18 months. This offers predictability, shielding you from price increases, and can help with budgeting. However, you might incur an exit fee if you leave before the contract ends, unless you are within the first 14 days (cooling-off period) or the last 49 days of your contract.
A variable tariff, on the other hand, means your unit rates and standing charge can change, usually in line with the wholesale cost of energy or Ofgem's price cap.3 These can be cheaper if wholesale prices fall, but you are exposed to potential increases. Variable tariffs typically do not have exit fees, offering more flexibility to switch at any time. Most new movers will initially be on a variable 'deemed' tariff.
Comparing deals and finding cost-effective solutions
Once you know your current supplier and tariff, it is time to shop around. Do not just stick with the default. Use online comparison sites to see what other suppliers are offering. Consider your typical energy usage - if you work from home or charge an electric vehicle, your consumption patterns might differ from someone who is out all day. Look beyond just the headline price; check for any exit fees (common with fixed tariffs if you leave early) and read customer reviews. The goal is to find a tariff that genuinely fits your usage without forcing you to compromise on comfort.
Eligibility for special tariffs (e.g., EV)
Some tariffs are designed for specific needs, such as Electric Vehicle (EV) tariffs. These often offer cheaper electricity rates during off-peak hours, typically midnight to 5am, making it more cost-effective to charge your EV overnight. To be eligible for the Fuse EV tariff, you will need an online smart meter and a compatible connected smart EV charger. The off-peak rate applies to your entire household usage during that window, not just EV charging. If you have a manual meter and want the EV tariff, you can switch to Fuse on a standard tariff first, then you will be eligible for a free smart meter upgrade. Once your smart meter is connected and you have linked a compatible EV charger, you can switch to the EV tariff.
Smart meters and the Fuse Energy app: your digital advantage
In today's connected world, managing your energy does not have to be a chore. Smart meters and intuitive apps can put you in control.
The benefits of smart meters for new movers
Smart meters are a game-changer for energy management. They automatically send your meter readings to your supplier, eliminating the need for manual submissions and ensuring accurate bills. This means no more estimated bills or scrambling to find your meter in the dark. For new movers, a smart meter provides immediate insight into your energy usage, helping you understand where your energy goes and how to manage it more effectively. They are also often a prerequisite for accessing certain tariffs, like those designed for EV owners. If you have a manual meter, Fuse Energy offers a free smart meter upgrade once your supply has switched in.
How the Fuse app simplifies energy management
The Fuse app is designed to simplify energy setup and management, giving you clear oversight of your usage and costs. It aligns with a tech-savvy lifestyle, allowing you to monitor your energy consumption and bills regularly for better control and cost management. Fuse Energy operates in Great Britain, supplying gas and electricity to homes in England, Scotland, and Wales. The app provides transparent control, helping you understand your energy without needing constant monitoring.
Connecting your smart meter and tracking usage
If your new flat already has a smart meter, you will want to ensure it is connected to your new supplier. If not, or if you have an older, traditional meter, consider getting a smart meter installed. With Fuse, the app allows you to connect your smart meter and track your energy usage in real-time. This insight empowers you to make informed decisions about your energy consumption, helping you enjoy your new flat with cheap, clean energy without guilt or the need for constant monitoring.
Making the switch: joining Fuse Energy
Switching energy suppliers might sound complicated, but it is often a straightforward process, especially with modern, tech-driven providers.
The simple switching process
If you have found a tariff that works for you, making the switch is usually quite simple. Once you have chosen a new supplier, they will handle most of the process. You will provide your details, including your moving-in meter readings, and they will communicate with your old supplier to transfer your account. The process is designed to be hassle-free, ensuring a smooth transition of your energy supply.
What to expect during your switch
During the switch, there might be a short period where both your old and new suppliers are processing the change. You will not experience any interruption to your energy supply. Your new supplier will keep you updated on the progress, confirming your switch date and when your new tariff will begin. Fuse Energy bills are typically issued on the second working day of each month, covering usage from the first to the last day of the previous month. Your first bill from your new supplier will reflect your usage from your switch-in date. New customers are typically on a variable Direct Debit, meaning you pay for the energy you use each month.
Referral benefits for new customers
Fuse runs a referral programme. If you have a referral code from another Fuse user, enter it during sign-up through the Fuse app or website (not via a price comparison site) - both you and the person who referred you will get a chance to spin the wheel for a reward, which is credited to the referrer's account after the referred customer pays their first bill. You can find your own referral code in the Fuse app once your account is active.
Ongoing energy management and saving in your new flat
Setting up your energy is just the beginning. Effective ongoing management helps you maintain control and continue to make smart choices.
Monitoring your usage and bills
Regularly monitoring your energy usage and bills is key to managing costs effectively. The Fuse app provides clear oversight of your usage and costs, aligning with a tech-savvy lifestyle. By keeping an eye on your consumption patterns, you can identify areas where you might be using more energy than you realise and adjust accordingly. This proactive approach helps you stay on top of your budget and avoid any surprises.
Beyond the bill: abundant energy, no trade-offs
Fuse believes in abundance over scarcity. This means you should not have to choose between comfort and cost-effectiveness in your new home. Fuse aims to provide cheap, clean energy that allows you to enjoy your new flat without guilt or the need for constant monitoring. It is about empowering you to live fully, using the energy you need to build the future you imagined, rather than constantly worrying about cutting back. Fuse's modern, tech-driven approach offers a distinct alternative to traditional suppliers, resonating with a generation looking for forward-thinking solutions.
When to consider the Priority Services Register
The Priority Services Register (PSR) provides extra support for vulnerable customers during power cuts or supply interruptions. You might be eligible if you are of state pension age, have young children (under five), have a disability or long-term health condition (including mental health), rely on medical equipment that uses electricity, or are recovering from an injury or recent hospital stay. If you feel you might need extra support, it is always worth checking your eligibility and registering with your energy supplier. Joining the PSR can provide benefits such as priority support in an emergency and advanced notice of scheduled power cuts. You will need to provide specific information for registration, such as a reason for being added to the PSR, and optionally, a secondary phone number or an alternative contact's details.
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. If you have a smart meter, you can view detailed usage data through the app or website, helping you understand how you can lower your bills. If you do not have a smart meter, Fuse Energy can upgrade your non-smart meter, completely for free. This can make it easier to track spending and make informed decisions about your energy use. Our 24/7 human support team is always on hand with fast response times of under 5 minutes whenever you need help. Click here to switch to Fuse Energy in as little as 3 minutes. Find out about our mission by clicking here.
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Disclaimer
For the avoidance of doubt, this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice. The author and/or Fuse Energy shall not be responsible for any losses arising out of any reliance on the information contained herein.
Moving to a new house
