Switch energy supplier in the UK — compare the whole market
Compare home energy deals in one place and switch with confidence. EnergyPlus is a whole-of-market comparison service for UK households — check prices, review tariffs, then request your switch.
- Compare gas, electricity or dual fuel from multiple UK suppliers
- See fixed & variable options, estimated annual costs and key tariff details
- Start your switch in minutes — no interruption to your supply
For UK home energy only. You can switch even if you rent (with the bill payer’s permission). You’ll keep the same gas/electricity supply and only the supplier changes.
Compare energy and request your switch
Switching energy supplier in the UK is usually straightforward: you choose a tariff, request the switch, and your new supplier takes care of the rest. With EnergyPlus, you can compare options across the market so you’re not limited to a small panel.
Use the form to tell us what you need. If you have it, keep a recent energy bill handy — your postcode, whether you want gas, electricity or dual fuel, and your rough usage help us produce a more accurate comparison.
Good to know: You won’t be left without energy. There’s no engineer visit in most switches, and your meters stay the same (unless you later choose an upgrade such as a smart meter).
Why switch energy supplier?
Many UK households stay on the same tariff for years. If your deal has ended, you might be on a more expensive standard variable tariff. A switch can help you align your tariff with your household’s needs — whether you prioritise budget certainty, flexibility, or features like smart meter integration.
Potential savings
Compare estimated annual costs across suppliers and tariffs. Even small differences in unit rates and standing charges can add up over a year.
Choose the tariff that fits
Fixed or variable, direct debit or prepay, single fuel or dual fuel — switching lets you select the option that matches your household setup.
No disruption to supply
Your gas and electricity keep flowing. The change is administrative — your new supplier arranges the switch and opening meter read.
Tip: If you’re coming to the end of a fixed tariff, start comparing early. That gives you time to weigh up exit fees, new rates, and your preferred contract length.
How switching energy works in the UK
In most cases, switching supplier is a managed process. You pick a tariff, confirm your details, and the new supplier handles the changeover. You’ll normally be asked for an opening meter read around the switch date (or it may be estimated).
- Compare tariffs based on your postcode, fuel type, payment method, and estimated usage.
- Check key details including unit rate, standing charge, contract length, and any exit fees.
- Request the switch — your new supplier contacts your current supplier and sets the switch date.
- Provide an opening meter read so your final and first bills are accurate.
- Manage your new account (Direct Debit, online account, and statements) and review again when your fix ends.
Will my credit history be checked? Some suppliers may carry out credit checks for certain tariffs (often Direct Debit). If you need a tariff with fewer checks, consider telling us in the form notes when we contact you.
What you’ll need
- Postcode and house/flat details
- Current supplier (if known)
- Meter type (credit or prepayment; smart meter if you have one)
- Usage in kWh from a recent bill (helpful but not essential)
- Payment method preference (e.g. monthly Direct Debit)
Common switching checks
Tariff types explained (fixed, variable, prepay)
Understanding tariff types helps you choose with confidence. The cheapest headline price isn’t always best if it doesn’t match your payment method, usage pattern, or appetite for price changes.
Fixed tariff
Your unit rate and standing charge are typically fixed for a set term (e.g. 12 months). This can help with budgeting.
- Often includes an exit fee if you leave early
- Can protect you from market rises during the term
Variable tariff
Rates can go up or down. Variable tariffs may offer flexibility and fewer restrictions, but less certainty.
- Often no exit fee (check the tariff details)
- Good if you may move home soon
Prepayment tariffs
If you top up a key/card or prepay via an app, you’ll need tariffs that support prepayment meters. Pricing and availability vary by region and meter type.
Dual fuel vs single fuel
Combining gas and electricity with one supplier can be convenient. However, separate suppliers can sometimes be cheaper. Comparing both options can reveal the best fit.
Can I switch?
Most households in England, Scotland and Wales can switch home energy supplier. Northern Ireland’s energy market operates differently, so options and switching processes may vary.
Homeowners
If you pay the energy bills, you can usually switch whenever you like, subject to any contract terms and exit fees.
Renters
If you’re the bill payer, you can often switch. If your landlord pays the bills, you’ll need their permission.
Moving home
You can still compare. Depending on timing, it may be better to switch after you move (and you can take meter readings on move-in day).
If you have a prepayment meter: switching may be affected by outstanding debt, meter type, or supplier policies. Share what you know in the form — we’ll help identify realistic options.
What affects your energy price when you switch?
UK energy quotes are typically driven by a few key factors. Understanding them helps you compare like-for-like and avoid surprises after switching.
Comparing accurately: If you don’t know your kWh usage, you can still start with an estimate. For best accuracy, check your annual kWh on a recent statement (often shown as “annual consumption”).
Switching energy FAQs
Will my supply be interrupted?
No — switching supplier doesn’t usually affect the physical supply. Your gas and electricity keep running as normal while the account transfers.
How long does an energy switch take?
Timing can vary by supplier and circumstances, but many switches complete in a matter of days to a few weeks. Your new supplier will confirm the expected date.
Can I switch if I’m in debt to my current supplier?
It depends. Debt on prepayment meters can affect switching options. If you’re in this situation, still request a comparison — we can explain realistic routes forward.
Is it better to fix or go variable?
Fixed tariffs offer price certainty for the term, while variable tariffs are more flexible. The best choice depends on your budget, how long you plan to stay, and whether you can accept price changes.
Do I need to contact my current supplier?
Typically no. Your new supplier usually handles the switch, including notifying your current supplier. You may want to keep an eye on final billing and Direct Debit changes.
What if I change my mind?
You may have a cooling-off period depending on how you sign up and the supplier’s terms. Always check the tariff paperwork and confirmations you receive.
Trusted switching help for UK households
People switch for different reasons — lowering monthly costs, improving service, or getting more certainty. Here are examples of what customers commonly value during the switching process.
“The comparison was easy to follow and the tariff details were clear. I felt confident choosing a fix that suited our budget.”
“I didn’t have my exact usage, but EnergyPlus explained what mattered and helped me compare like-for-like.”
“Switching didn’t interrupt our supply at all. The meter read reminder was helpful and final billing made sense.”
Trust indicators: Whole-of-market comparisons, clear tariff breakdowns, and a process designed for UK households switching home energy.
Ready to switch?
Compare energy deals across the UK market and request your home energy switch today. It only takes a few minutes to start.
EnergyPlus.co.uk — home energy comparison and switching support for UK households.
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