How do I switch my gas and electricity supplier?

To switch supplier, compare tariffs, choose the plan that suits you, then apply online. Your new supplier will manage the switch and contact your current supplier. You’ll usually just need your address, current supplier details, and (if available) your MPAN (electricity) and MPRN (gas). You can start your switch here: https://www.energyplus.co.uk/guidesfaqs/Switch-Supplier

Will my energy supply be interrupted when I switch?

No. Your gas and electricity supply won’t be interrupted when you switch supplier. The same pipes and wires are used, and the change is handled between suppliers behind the scenes.

Can I switch if I’m in a fixed-term contract?

Yes, you can switch at any time, but you may have to pay an exit fee if you leave a fixed-term tariff early. Check your current tariff terms before switching, or contact your existing supplier to confirm any charges.

What information do I need to switch supplier?

Typically you’ll need your supply address, contact details, bank details for Direct Debit (if paying that way), and ideally a recent meter reading. If you have them, your MPAN (electricity) and MPRN (gas) can help match your meters quickly.

Do I need to contact my current supplier to switch?

Usually no. Your new supplier will contact your current supplier and manage the switch. You should still settle any outstanding balance and provide a final meter reading if requested.

Will I need to give a meter reading when I switch?

Often yes. A meter reading helps ensure your final bill from your current supplier and your opening bill with your new supplier are accurate. If you have a smart meter, readings may be collected automatically depending on configuration and coverage.

Can I switch supplier if I owe money?

It depends. If you’re in debt to your current supplier, you may still be able to switch, but there can be restrictions—especially for certain payment types such as prepayment meters. Contact your current supplier to understand your options and any debt repayment arrangements.

What should I check before switching energy supplier?

Before switching, check your current tariff end date and any exit fees, compare unit rates and standing charges, confirm your payment method (e.g., Direct Debit or prepay), and ensure your address and meter details are correct. For more guidance, visit: https://www.energyplus.co.uk/guidesfaqs/Switch-Supplier

Switch Energy Supplier in the UK (Whole-of-Market Comparison)

Q: How long does it take to switch energy supplier in the UK?

Most supplier switches complete within around 5 working days under the UK’s faster switching process (timescales can vary depending on your circumstances). You’ll be told the expected switch date during the application, and you’ll stay supplied throughout.

Q: Can I switch if I have a smart meter?

Yes. You can switch supplier with a smart meter. In some cases, smart functionality may be limited temporarily after switching, but you’ll still have energy and your meter will continue to record usage.

Compare gas and electricity tariffs across the market and switch with confidence. EnergyPlus helps UK households check deals, estimate savings, and request a call-back to complete your switch.

Whole-of-market approach: compare a wide range of suppliers and tariffs
Quick form — we’ll use your details to find suitable options for your home
Switching is normally seamless — no disruption to your energy supply
Support for single-fuel or dual fuel (gas + electricity)

Get energy quotes How switching works

For domestic properties in the United Kingdom. Switching timeframes can vary by supplier and meter type. Your energy supply stays on throughout.

Compare energy tariffs and switch supplier

If you’re on a variable tariff, your bills can change with market conditions. Switching energy supplier may help you find a tariff that better fits your home, your budget and how you use gas and electricity. With EnergyPlus, you can request a comparison based on your postcode and household details — then choose whether to proceed.

Good to know: When you switch supplier, your energy supply stays on. The change is handled in the background (including opening/closing meter readings).

Why use a whole-of-market comparison service?

You can see options across multiple suppliers and tariff structures (where available)
You can compare like-for-like using estimated annual cost and unit rates
You can factor in your meter type and payment method
You can get help understanding exit fees, price caps and contract terms

Get your comparison

Fill in the form and we’ll use your details to help find suitable tariffs for your home.

Tip: If you have a recent bill, keep it handy — your annual usage (kWh) helps make comparisons more accurate.

Benefits of switching energy supplier

Switching is a normal part of the UK energy market. The right tariff depends on your meter, household usage and whether you prefer price certainty or flexibility.

Potential bill savings

If your current tariff is no longer competitive, switching may reduce your projected annual cost — especially if you’ve been on a standard variable tariff.

Tariffs to suit your lifestyle

From fixed-rate deals to options that better suit electric heating or off-peak use (where available), you can match tariffs to how you use energy at home.

No interruption to supply

Your gas and electricity keep flowing. Switching is an administrative change between suppliers, with your network staying the same.

Clearer budgeting

Fixed tariffs can help some households plan. You’ll still want to check standing charges, unit rates and any fees before committing.

Manage both fuels together

If you have both gas and electricity, you can compare single-fuel versus dual-fuel options to see what fits best.

More confidence in your choice

A structured comparison helps you avoid missing key details like contract length, price changes, exit fees and payment method restrictions.

How switching energy supplier works (step-by-step)

Most UK home switches follow a similar process. Exact timelines can vary depending on the supplier, your meter setup and whether there are any issues to resolve.

Share your details — postcode and contact info, plus (ideally) your usage in kWh from a recent bill.
Compare tariffs — review unit rates, standing charges, contract terms, payment methods and any fees.
Choose a supplier/tariff — confirm whether you want single fuel (gas or electricity) or dual fuel.
Switch starts — your new supplier arranges the transfer; your existing supplier is notified.
Meter readings — you may be asked to provide opening/closing readings (or smart readings may be used).
Switch completes — you’ll receive final billing from the old supplier and ongoing billing from the new one.

Reminder: You do not need an engineer visit just to switch supplier. Your local network operator remains the same.

What you need to switch energy supplier

You can start with just your postcode, but having the following to hand can improve accuracy and reduce follow-up questions.

Helpful (if available)

Meter type (credit meter, smart meter, prepay)
Multi-rate details (e.g., Economy 7) if you use off-peak electricity
Your MPAN (electricity) or MPRN (gas) from your bill
Any special circumstances (e.g., all-electric home)

Understanding UK energy tariff types

Before you switch, it helps to know the most common domestic tariff types and what to check. Availability depends on supplier, region, meter type and market conditions.

Tariff type	Best for	What to check
Fixed-rate	Households that want price certainty for a set term	Contract length, unit rates, standing charges, exit fees, what happens at end of term
Variable	Those who prefer flexibility and fewer tie-ins	How prices can change, notice periods, whether rates track a cap or internal pricing
Time-of-use / multi-rate	Homes that use more electricity off-peak (meter dependent)	Day/night rates, how your meter is configured, suitability for your usage pattern
Prepayment	Customers who pay-as-you-go using a key/card or smart prepay	Top-up methods, emergency credit, standing charges, any smart meter requirements

Compare fairly: Look beyond the headline monthly estimate. Check the unit rate (p/kWh), standing charge (p/day) and any fees that could apply.

Common switching mistakes (and how to avoid them)

Comparing on price alone

A lower unit rate can be offset by a higher standing charge. Compare total estimated annual cost and the tariff details.

Not checking exit fees

If you’re in a fixed term, an exit fee may apply. Confirm your tariff end date and any switching rules.

Wrong meter assumptions

Economy 7, smart meters and prepay can affect which tariffs you can access. Use your bill to confirm meter type.

Skipping usage (kWh)

Without annual kWh, quotes can be less accurate. If possible, use your annual consumption figures rather than spend.

Forgetting payment method

Tariffs can differ by Direct Debit, receipt of bill, or prepayment. Make sure you compare based on how you intend to pay.

Missing key dates

If your fixed tariff is ending, review new options early. Leaving it too late can move you onto a more expensive default tariff.

Switch energy supplier FAQs (UK)

Will my gas or electricity go off when I switch?

No. Your supply continues as normal. Switching is primarily an administrative change and your local network operator stays the same.

How long does it take to switch energy supplier in the UK?

Timeframes vary by supplier and circumstances, but many switches complete within a few weeks. Any issues with meter details or address information can add time.

Can I switch if I have a smart meter or prepayment meter?

Often yes, but availability depends on the supplier and your meter setup. Provide accurate meter details so comparisons reflect the tariffs you can access.

Do I need to contact my current supplier?

Usually no. Your new supplier handles the switching process. You may need to provide meter readings when asked and ensure your account details are correct.

Will I pay an exit fee?

It depends on your current tariff. Fixed deals can include exit fees if you leave before the end date. Check your terms (or your latest bill) before switching.

Is it better to switch gas and electricity together?

Not always. Dual fuel can be convenient, but separate suppliers can sometimes work out cheaper. A whole-of-market comparison helps you evaluate both approaches.

Still unsure? Go back to compare suppliers and we’ll help you find suitable options.

Why households use EnergyPlus

When switching energy supplier, clarity matters. Customers tell us they value a straightforward process and help understanding tariff details.

“The comparison was clear and I understood what I was switching to — especially the standing charge and contract length.”

UK homeowner, switching dual fuel

“I didn’t realise my fixed deal had ended. The form was quick and I got the information I needed to decide.”

Customer moving from variable tariff

“Helpful when I wasn’t sure whether to keep Economy 7. The steps made it easy to follow.”

All-electric flat, multi-rate meter

Trust checks you should always do: confirm tariff terms, fees, payment method, and your meter type before proceeding with any switch.

Ready to switch energy supplier?

Complete the form to request your whole-of-market comparison. We’ll help you review suitable options for your home and take the next step if you choose to switch.

Domestic UK switching support
Compare tariffs using unit rates + standing charges
No interruption to your energy supply

Start my comparison

Already started? Jump back to the form.

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Updated on 3 Feb 2026