How to Switch Energy Supplier in the UK

Why switch energy supplier?

Switching your domestic energy supplier can help you find a tariff that better fits your home, usage and budgeting style. Whether you want predictable bills, greener electricity or improved customer service, switching is quick, safe and protected by UK regulation.

What you need before you switch

You can start a switch with just a few details. Having the following to hand will make it even smoother:

• Your postcode and address
• Current supplier(s) and tariff name (from your latest bill)
• Annual usage in kWh for electricity and/or gas (shown on your bill) – or your monthly spend as a fallback
• Meter type: standard, Economy 7/10, or prepayment; smart meter model if known
• Preferred payment method (e.g. Direct Debit, pay on receipt of bill, prepayment)
• Email and mobile number for updates

How to switch supplier – step by step

1. Compare tariffs

   Check available tariffs based on your usage. Consider unit rates, standing charges, contract length, exit fees and any green credentials.

2. Choose your new supplier

   Pick the tariff that suits your needs. You’ll enter your contact details, supply address and payment preference to initiate the switch.

3. Cooling-off period

   You’ll receive a contract summary and have 14 days to change your mind. You can still set a future switch date.

4. Provide a meter reading

   On (or just before) your switch date, send an opening reading to your new supplier. It’s shared with your old supplier to produce your final bill. Smart meters often send this automatically.

5. Final bill and any refund

   Your old supplier will send a final bill. If your account is in credit, expect a refund after they issue it (often within 10 working days).

How long does switching take?

Thanks to Ofgem’s faster switching arrangements, many domestic switches complete within 1–5 working days after the cooling-off period or on your chosen future date. Your lights and heating stay on throughout.

Exit fees, credit checks and refunds

Exit fees

• Fixed-term tariffs may include an early exit fee if you leave early.
• No exit fees are allowed in the final 49 days of a fixed-term contract.
• Variable tariffs usually have no exit fees.

Credit checks

For Direct Debit tariffs, suppliers may run a soft or hard credit check. If you have a limited credit history, you can still switch – you may be offered pay-on-receipt or prepayment options.

Account credit refunds

If your old account is in credit, you should receive a refund after the final bill is issued. Signatories to the Energy Switch Guarantee aim to refund credit promptly, often within 10 working days of the final bill.

Switching when you have a smart meter

Most smart meters in Great Britain now communicate through the national smart network, meaning they retain smart functions after you switch. Here’s what to know:

• SMETS2 meters and most enrolled SMETS1 meters keep smart functionality with your new supplier.
• In a few cases, your in-home display may need time to update; your supply and billing won’t be affected.
• You can switch without replacing your meter. Your new supplier will let you know if any settings need updating.

Want to learn more? See our Smart Meters Guide.

Renters, shared homes and landlords

• If you pay the energy bill, you usually have the right to switch. Check your tenancy agreement for any clauses.
• Always take clear meter readings and photos at move-in and move-out.
• For shared homes (HMOs), confirm who is the account holder to avoid conflicts.
• Landlords cannot unreasonably prevent you from choosing your supplier when you’re responsible for the bills.

Moving soon? Read our Moving Home Energy Checklist.

Switching with a prepayment meter

You can switch prepayment tariffs, and in many cases you can switch to credit (bill) payment if you pass eligibility checks. Key points:

• If you owe less than £500 per fuel on a prepayment meter, you can usually switch under the Debt Assignment Protocol; the debt moves to your new supplier.
• Top-up methods may change. Ensure your preferred top-up option is supported by the new supplier.
• Ask about smart prepayment (pay-as-you-go) for mobile top-ups and better usage insights.

Economy 7/10 and time-of-use tariffs

Homes with storage heaters or high night-time usage may benefit from multi-rate tariffs. When comparing:

• Check both day and night unit rates and your expected % usage split.
• Ensure your meter supports multi-rate billing after the switch.
• For EVs, consider specialist EV charging tariffs if available.

Help, discounts and protections

• Energy Switch Guarantee: Many suppliers commit to a smooth switch, handling the process and keeping you informed.
• Priority Services Register (PSR): If you or someone in your home is vulnerable, register for extra support with your supplier and network operator.
• Warm Home Discount: Check eligibility windows and participating suppliers each scheme year.
• Price Cap: Ofgem’s energy price cap limits unit rates for standard variable tariffs; actual costs depend on your usage.

Troubleshooting & complaints

Erroneous transfers (switched by mistake)

If your supply was switched in error, contact the supplier shown on the unexpected bill. They must work with your original supplier to reverse the switch and put things right.

Meter reading disputes

Disagree with the opening/closing read? Submit a photo reading and contact both suppliers. A disputes process exists to agree a correction.

How to complain

Raise a complaint with your supplier first. If unresolved after 8 weeks, you can escalate to the Energy Ombudsman for a free, independent review.

Frequently asked questions