Changing energy supplier: The complete guide.

You can usually switch energy suppliers at any time, but there might be some restrictions if you're on a fixed-term contract with exit fees. Smart meters generally don't cause any issues when switching.

Sometimes your electricity supplier might change automatically due to company closures, government intervention, or supplier buyouts. If this happens, don't panic! Ofgem appoints a new supplier in such cases, and your new supplier will contact you.

Switching energy suppliers could actually save you money, get you better service, and offer more environmentally friendly options. But it's important to compare deals and see what works best for you before making the switch. Sometimes, sticking with your current supplier might be the best choice, especially if they offer a good loyalty rate.

If you’ve already got a smart meter, this can make the switching process even smoother and help you track your energy use more effectively. If you have an older smart meter (SMETS1), it's worth checking with your new supplier to ensure it’s compatible with your new tariff.

Your final bill from your old supplier will include charges for all energy you’ve used up to the switching date, including any outstanding debt, and any credit you're owed. Check this bill very carefully for any errors or discrepancies as you may be eligible for a refund if you’ve been overpaying.

Your final bill will include charges for all energy used up to the switching date, any outstanding debt, and any credit you're owed. It's crucial to check this bill for accuracy and contact your old supplier if you have any questions.

Your old supplier is legally obligated to refund any outstanding credit on your account. This usually happens automatically within a few weeks of your switch.

Yes, you have the right to dispute any inaccuracies on your final bill. Contact your old supplier and provide evidence of the error. If the issue isn't resolved, you can escalate the complaint to the Energy Ombudsman.

You can still switch suppliers with a prepayment meter. Your new supplier will provide instructions on how to transfer any existing credit to your new account. In some cases, you may need a new meter installed.

Many suppliers offer renewable energy tariffs, where the electricity you use comes from sources like wind, solar, or hydro power. When comparing tariffs, check the fuel mix to see how much of the energy is renewable.

You can usually arrange for your energy supply to be transferred to your new address, or you can choose a new supplier. It's best to inform your current supplier of your moving date and provide them with forwarding details.

If you're in debt to your current supplier, you may need to pay off the debt before you can switch. However, some suppliers may allow you to switch with a small amount of debt, which will be added to your final bill.

Ofgem, the energy regulator, has a 'safety net' process to ensure your energy supply isn't interrupted if your supplier goes bust. You'll be automatically transferred to a new supplier, and any credit balance you have will be protected.

Compare suppliers based on tariff type, unit rates, standing charges, contract length, and customer service. Price comparison tools and supplier websites can help you here.

If a switch is rejected, it may be due to debt with your current supplier or incorrect details. Contact both suppliers to resolve the issue and try again.

When changing energy suppliers in the UK, your new energy supplier is responsible for your Direct Debit. To be clear, there isn’t a ‘switching over’ process, your new supplier sets up a new Direct Debit.

Your new supplier also lets your old supplier know that you're switching and stops your previous Direct Debit after your final bill.

Find more information about switching and Direct Debits at Citizen’s Advice.

Don’t worry, when changing energy providers, you won’t need to tell your old energy supplier that you’re leaving. Your new supplier will sort everything for you.

Switching is quick and flexible, typically taking 3-5 days to complete. You’re protected by a 14 day cooling off period if you change your mind, without paying any fees should you change your mind.

Finally, if you’d prefer to switch on a specific date, you usually can. Simply contact your new supplier and let them know the date. This is ideal if you’re nearing the end of a fixed tariff and don’t want to switch until it’s ended.

There are a number of places to get independent and impartial advice on finding the best deal for your home. The most common next step is using a comparison website that has signed up to Ofgem's Confidence Code. This code ensures the comparisons are truly independent and unbiased.

Generally, the most competitive fixed rate deals are offered to customers who pay by Direct Debit. Suppliers usually run a credit check for these deals to be confident you'll be able to pay your bill each month.

However, if you're keen to avoid a credit check, you'll likely be offered a Prepayment tariff. This means paying for your energy upfront by topping up a meter. It's important to note that Prepayment tariffs are usually more expensive than Direct Debit options, though the gap has narrowed thanks to the energy price cap.

Yes. Most Standard Variable Tariffs (SVTs), like our Next Flex tariff, don't have any exit fees because they aren't tied to a fixed contract length. So, you're free to switch whenever you want! Just note that the unit price you pay can go up or down with the market.

If you live in a rural area and are unsure, you can check supply availability by entering your postcode and getting a quote. If you are still uncertain, simply get in touch with us and we can assist.

We’re dedicated to giving you the best support possible. You can contact us in multiple ways, including by phone, email, and WhatsApp.

We also have a helpful community forum where you can chat with other customers to get top tips and the latest news. Find out all the ways you can get in touch with us.

While getting a cheaper energy bill is always the biggest incentive, switching offers much more than this, including:

• Unlocking savings by moving from an expensive variable tariff to a more competitive fixed or tracker deal.

• Giving you access to specialist tariffs (e.g. electric vehicles (EVs) and solar batteries) that offer cheap overnight charging rates.

• Offering green tech discounts, such as savings on things like solar panels, heat pumps, and EV chargers.

• Access to loyalty perks, from refer a friend schemes to reward programmes for vouchers and freebies.

Get more out of your energy and explore our offers.