Switch energy in the UK: compare & change supplier

Compare whole-of-market tariffs, understand the costs and caveats, and switch with confidence — whether you’re on a fixed deal, variable rate, prepayment, or Economy 7.

  • See estimated prices across suppliers (terms vary)
  • Keep your supply on — switching is managed between suppliers
  • Know what to check first: exit fees, meter type, and payment method
Get your energy quote How switching works

Estimates depend on your usage, region, meter type and payment method. Always check tariff details and exit fees before switching.

Fast answer: how to switch energy (UK)

Most UK households can switch gas, electricity, or both in a few steps: compare tariffs using your postcode and estimated usage, choose a tariff, then your new supplier arranges the transfer. You won’t have your energy cut off because of switching. Your final bill from the old supplier is based on your closing meter reading.

Before you switch

  • Check if you’re in a fixed deal and whether an exit fee applies.
  • Find your meter type (credit, prepayment, smart, Economy 7).
  • Know your payment method (Direct Debit is usually cheapest).

When it’s worth it

  • Your current tariff is ending soon (or you’re on a variable rate).
  • You can switch to a cheaper unit rate/standing charge for your region.
  • You want tariff features (e.g., EV, tracker-style, 100% renewable claims).

Big caveat

The “best” deal depends on your annual kWh, region and meter. A tariff with a low unit rate can still cost more if the standing charge is high (or vice versa).

Tip: If you don’t know your annual usage, use your last 12 months of bills (kWh) or your online account history. If you only have £ amounts, you can still compare — but kWh-based estimates are usually more reliable.

Compare tariffs and switch (whole-of-market)

Use the form to get a tailored comparison based on your postcode and contact details. We’ll use what you enter to prepare your quote and (if you choose) help you complete a switch. If you’d rather browse first, jump to the tariff comparison table and checklist.

What you’ll need (2 minutes)

  • Postcode (prices vary by region)
  • Email and phone (to send your quote and help if anything needs confirming)
  • Your name (for accurate lead handling)

How switching works (step-by-step)

  1. Compare: We show estimated costs based on your region and typical usage assumptions (you can refine later).
  2. Choose: Pick a tariff type (fixed, variable, or specialist) and check key terms.
  3. Switch: Your new supplier contacts your old supplier and coordinates the changeover.
  4. Meter reading: You’ll usually be asked for an opening/closing reading (smart meters may submit automatically).
  5. Final bill: Old supplier issues a final statement; any credit is refunded (timescales vary).
No interruption to supply: Switching changes the company that bills you. Your gas/electricity keeps flowing through the same pipes and wires.

Get your energy quote

Tell us where you are and how to reach you. We’ll send your estimated comparison and next steps.

Start your comparison

By submitting, you confirm this is for a UK home energy comparison. We’ll use your details to provide quotes and contact you about your comparison. You can opt out at any time.

Tariff types compared (and who they suit)

These are the most common tariff options you’ll see when you switch energy. What’s “best” depends on your risk tolerance, how often you’re willing to review your tariff, and whether your home has a specialist meter (like Economy 7) or higher off-peak usage.

Tariff type What it means Pros Watch-outs
Fixed (e.g., 12 months) Unit rates and standing charges are set for the term (unless you change tariff). Budgeting certainty; protection from short-term price rises. May include exit fees; may not fall if market prices drop.
Standard variable (SVT) Price can change (often tracks the Ofgem price cap level for many households). Flexible; usually no exit fees; good default if you’re unsure. Can rise; may not be the cheapest option for your usage.
Tracker / market-linked Price changes with a published formula (daily/weekly/monthly), depending on tariff rules. Can benefit if wholesale prices fall; transparent pricing formula. Less predictable bills; not ideal if you need fixed monthly budgeting.
Economy 7 / multi-rate Different day and night electricity rates (times vary by region/meter). Cheaper off-peak for storage heating or heavy night usage. Higher day rate; if you don’t use enough off-peak, it can cost more overall.
Prepayment (PAYG) You pay in advance (key/card or smart prepay). Options can be more limited. Control spending; helpful if you prefer pay-as-you-go. Not all tariffs available; you may need a meter exchange to move to credit (eligibility varies).

Quick decision checklist

A fixed tariff may suit you if:
You want predictable pricing, you’re happy to commit for a term, and any exit fee is acceptable.
A variable tariff may suit you if:
You want flexibility, you might move home, or you’re waiting for better fixed deals.
Economy 7 may suit you if:
A meaningful share of your electricity use is overnight (often with storage heaters).

Who switching might not suit (right now)

  • You’re mid-contract and the exit fee outweighs the likely benefit.
  • You’re in the middle of a home move and don’t have final readings yet (it may be easier to switch once settled).
  • You’re on a restricted meter / complex setup and want to confirm tariff availability first.
  • You have significant debt on a prepayment meter (rules vary; you may need to clear or agree a repayment plan).
Still compare: Even if you can’t switch immediately, comparing helps you understand what to do next (for example, when your exit-fee window opens).

Two realistic switching scenarios (with assumptions)

Scenario A: dual fuel, credit meter, Direct Debit

Assumptions (illustrative): 2–3 bed home, electricity 3,100 kWh/year, gas 12,000 kWh/year, typical regional standing charges. Current deal ends this month.

  • Current estimated annual cost: £1,690
  • Alternative fixed tariff estimate: £1,610
  • Estimated difference: £80/year

Why it changes: different unit rates and standing charges for your region; actual bills depend on usage and any price changes on variable tariffs.

Scenario B: all-electric flat on Economy 7

Assumptions (illustrative): electric-only, storage heaters, 4,600 kWh/year with 55% used off-peak; comparing Economy 7 tariffs only.

  • Current Economy 7 estimated annual cost: £1,420
  • Alternative Economy 7 estimate: £1,340
  • Estimated difference: £80/year

Key sensitivity: if your off-peak share drops (e.g., 55% ? 35%), the same tariff could become less competitive.

Important: These numbers are examples to show how comparisons work. Your estimate can be higher or lower depending on your region, meter setup, payment method, and actual kWh usage.

Costs, exclusions and common switching pitfalls

Switching itself is usually free, but certain tariff terms and household situations can affect what’s available and what you’ll actually pay. Here’s what to look out for before you commit.

1) Exit fees (fixed deals)

Some fixed tariffs charge a fee if you leave early. Check your contract end date and whether there’s a fee-free switching window.

Check: “Termination fee”, “exit fee”, or “early exit” in your online account or welcome pack.

2) Standing charge vs unit rate

A cheaper unit rate can be offset by a higher standing charge — especially for low-usage homes and single occupants.

Rule of thumb: if you use less energy than average, compare the total annual estimate rather than focusing on unit rates.

3) Meter type and tariff availability

Prepayment, Economy 7, and some smart meter setups can limit which tariffs you can take. Some suppliers may require a meter exchange to move to credit.

Always confirm whether the tariff is available for your meter and payment method before you switch.

4) Direct Debit discounts and billing cadence

Some of the best prices assume monthly Direct Debit and online billing. Paying on receipt of bill or using cash/cheque is often priced higher.

5) Debt and repayment plans

If you owe money to your current supplier, your ability to switch can depend on the amount, your meter type, and any agreed repayment plan.

If you’re worried: Citizens Advice can help you understand your options and supplier obligations.

6) Moving home timing

If you’re about to move, it can be simpler to take opening readings at the new property first, then switch once your account is set up correctly.

Avoid these common mistakes

  • Not checking the tariff end date — you might pay an avoidable exit fee.
  • Comparing using the wrong meter type (single-rate vs Economy 7) — this can distort estimates.
  • Using outdated usage — a new baby, hybrid working, or a heat pump can change your kWh significantly.
  • Ignoring standing charges — especially if you’re a low-usage household.
  • Forgetting to submit readings — can delay your final bill or refund.

Switch energy FAQs (UK)

Will my gas or electricity be cut off if I switch?

No. Switching changes who bills you — the physical supply stays on. The only common disruption is administrative (for example, if meter readings are missing), not loss of energy.

How long does an energy switch take in the UK?

Timescales vary by supplier and setup. Many switches complete within a short period, but some take longer (for example, complex meters, address issues, or prepayment changes). Your new supplier should confirm the expected date.

Can I switch if I’m renting?

Usually, yes — if you pay the energy bills and the account is in your name. If bills are included in rent or your landlord controls the supply, you may not be able to switch. Check your tenancy agreement and who the bill payer is.

Can I switch from a prepayment meter to Direct Debit?

Sometimes. It depends on the supplier, your credit checks, and whether a meter exchange is required. Some suppliers offer smart prepayment options; others may insist on keeping prepay unless eligibility criteria are met.

Do I need to give meter readings when switching?

Often, yes. If you have a smart meter, readings may be sent automatically, but it’s still worth taking your own photos on switch day. Accurate readings help avoid estimated final bills and disputes.

What if I’m in credit with my current supplier?

Your old supplier should return any remaining credit after your final bill is produced. Refund methods and timing can vary. Keep your final statement and note your readings in case you need to query it.

Can I switch if I don’t know who my current supplier is?

Yes. You can find your electricity supplier via your bill or by using the official MPAS route, and your gas supplier via the Meter Point Reference service. If you’re moving in, the previous occupant’s information can help too.

Will switching affect my smart meter?

It shouldn’t stop your supply, but smart features can depend on supplier systems and meter type. If your in-home display stops updating or readings aren’t received, your new supplier can advise on reconnection steps.

Is it better to switch gas and electricity together?

Not always. Dual fuel can be convenient, but it’s worth checking separate deals too — sometimes one supplier is strong on electricity pricing, another on gas. Comparing both options is usually the best approach.

Trust, methodology and sources

Page details

Editorial promise: We prioritise clarity and accuracy. Where figures are used, we label them as examples or estimates and explain assumptions.

How we assess “switching value”

When we talk about whether switching could help, we focus on the parts of a bill you can compare across suppliers:

  • Unit rates (p/kWh) for gas and electricity
  • Standing charges (p/day), which vary by region
  • Payment method assumptions (e.g., monthly Direct Debit vs pay on receipt)
  • Meter setup (single-rate, Economy 7, prepayment, smart)
  • Contract terms (length, exit fees, price change rules)

Limitations: quotes are estimates until your usage and meter details are fully confirmed. Supplier availability and tariff rules can change.

Sources (UK)

Not financial advice: This guide is general information for UK households. Tariffs, eligibility and supplier terms vary and can change.

Ready to switch energy?

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Updated on 4 May 2026