How to switch energy supplier:
5 working days, supply never cuts off
Switching energy supplier is simpler than most people think. Here is exactly what to do, step by step, and what to watch out for.
Switching energy supplier takes 3 to 5 working days under Ofgem's Faster Switching Programme. Your supply is never cut off. You need your postcode, current supplier name, and a recent bill. Your new supplier handles everything including contacting your old one. You have a 14-day cooling-off period if you change your mind.
How to switch energy supplier in 2026
Check your current tariff and any exit fees
Find your current energy bill and note your supplier name, tariff name, annual kWh usage, and whether you are in a fixed contract. If you are on a fixed deal, check whether it has an exit fee, typically £30 to £50 per fuel. If you are on a standard variable tariff, there are no exit fees and you can switch at any time.
Compare tariffs by postcode
Use your postcode and annual kWh usage to compare tariffs. The cheapest deal varies by region and meter type so postcode is essential. Compare on total annual cost, not just the unit rate, as standing charges vary significantly between tariffs. See our energy tariff comparison to find deals available for your home.
Choose your new tariff and sign up
Select the tariff you want and sign up directly with the new supplier or through a comparison service. You will need your postcode, current supplier name, and payment details. The process takes around 10 minutes online. You have a 14-day cooling-off period after signing up, during which you can cancel for free with no penalty.
Submit meter readings on switch day
On the day of your switch, take actual meter readings for both gas and electricity. Submit these to both your old and new suppliers. This step is important: it ensures your final bill from your old supplier is accurate and that your new supplier starts billing from the correct baseline. Smart meter readings are usually submitted automatically.
Your new supplier handles the rest
Your new supplier contacts your old one and arranges the transfer. You will receive a confirmation email and a completion notification when the switch is complete, typically within 3 to 5 working days. Do not cancel your old direct debit until you have received and paid your final bill from your old supplier. Your old supplier must refund any credit within 10 working days.
What to watch out for when switching
Do not cancel your old direct debit too soon
Wait until you have received and paid your final bill from your old supplier before cancelling your direct debit. Cancelling early causes billing disputes and can delay getting any credit refunded to you.
Check for exit fees before switching mid-contract
Fixed deals sometimes charge £30 to £50 per fuel if you leave early. Run the numbers: if the saving on the new tariff outweighs the exit fee over the remaining contract period, switching still makes sense.
Smart meters continue working after a switch
Most second-generation (SMETS2) smart meters continue to work normally after switching supplier. Older SMETS1 meters may temporarily lose smart functions but will still measure usage correctly and are usually upgraded remotely.
Debt does not always block a switch
If you have a prepayment meter with debt under £500 per fuel, the Debt Assignment Protocol lets you switch and take the debt with you. For credit meter debt, contact your supplier to discuss options.
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Questions people ask
Switching typically takes 3 to 5 working days under Ofgem's Faster Switching Programme. Your supply is never interrupted throughout. Only the company billing you changes.
No. Your supply is never interrupted. Gas and electricity continue through the same pipes and wires. The switch is entirely administrative and your new supplier handles everything.
Your postcode, current supplier name, tariff name, and ideally your annual kWh usage from a recent bill. On switch day, take meter readings for both gas and electricity for accurate final and opening bills.
Only if you are on a fixed deal mid-contract. Standard variable tariff customers can switch at any time with no exit fees. Fixed deals sometimes charge £30 to £50 per fuel. Check your tariff terms before switching.
Yes in most cases. Prepayment customers with debt under £500 per fuel can switch and take the debt to their new supplier via the Debt Assignment Protocol. For credit meter debt, contact your supplier first.
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