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How to Switch Energy Suppliers
Switching energy suppliers can seem like a daunting task, however, if you know how it is a quite straightforward process.
Here are the processes to follow to switch energy suppliers;
- Find a recent bill: To get an accurate quote, you need to provide about your current energy usage, your supplier, the tariff you are on
- Get a quote: Use the energy comparison service to get a quote quickly.
- Compare tariffs from different energy providers to find potential savings.
- Start switching: Choose a new tariff and start the switch application process.
- Provide meter readings: Provide meter readings to your new supplier on or near the switch date.
- Check old account balance: Check for any outstanding balances or credits on your old account.
- Receive final bill: Expect a final bill from your old supplier and request a refund if you’re in credit.
- Wait for the switch: Wait for the switch to complete, which usually takes around 15 days if not fast-tracked. If during your switching process, you change your mind about switching, then you can cancel during the cooling-off period. You have a 14-day cooling-off period to cancel the switch if necessary.
What are the Steps to take if Energy Supplier goes bust
An energy supplier going bust means the energy company is unable to continue operating as a business. This was a common situation when energy pricing was fluctuating which had most smaller businesses out of business. While this situation is no longer prevalent, it could happen at any time. As an energy user, if you are in any way affected, there are precautions Ofgem put in place for customers. Here are some steps you need to follow.
- Take a meter reading: When a supplier goes bust, customers are transferred to a new supplier as part of the Supplier of Last Resort(SoLR) process. Providing an up-to-date meter reading at the time of the switch helps to ensure that the final bill from the old supplier is accurate and that the new supplier can start billing on correct usage from the point of transfer. By taking a meter reading helps prevent overbilling and underbilling.
- You have to wait for further instructions from Ofgem. While you wait your new supplier will be sorted and your new supplier will contact you for your information confirmation.
- Communicate with your new supplier: It’s essential to communicate with your new supplier for several reasons.
- Tariff Options: You will probably be placed on variable tariff which is usually the most expensive tariff. Discuss with your supplier to switch to a more affordable option based on your energy usage and preference.
- Billing and Payments: You will need to understand how billing and payment work with the new supplier. Including any changes in payment method or billing cycle.
If you ever have to deal with a supplier going bust, rest assured that Ofgem has regulatory measures in place to minimize the impact on consumers and ensure the continuation of service.
What do you need to know to switch Energy Suppliers
To switch suppliers, you will need the following information;
- The cost of your current gas and electricity supplier
- Your supplier’s details
- Your basic information like your address and postcode
For a more accurate quote, you will need information like;
- Your current tariff
- Total annual usage.
With this information, you can view your current supplier exit fee. If the exit fee exceeds potential savings, consider waiting until your supplier notifies you of the contract’s end, usually 42-49 days in advance. During this period, you can switch without incurring exit charges.
Tips for switching Energy Suppliers
Follow these steps to make your supplier switching a straightforward process.
- Gather important documents: To speed up your switching process, have important documents in handy like your current energy usage, meter readings, and recent energy bills. Having this document will make the process faster.
- Check Customer Reviews: While other factors are important, customer review is an important step you should not skip. This will determine how hassle-free your service with them will be. Before choosing an energy supplier, look out for their customer service reviews online and feedback from individuals who have tried their services. Use these reviews to determine their reliability.
- Understand the types of tariffs: There are various types of tariffs available to energy users. This includes fixed rate, variable rate, prepayment tariff, economy7(peak and off-peak rate) and green tariff(renewable energy). Ensure to choose a tariff that best fits your usage patterns and preference by comparing their rate, contract terms and other perks they offer.
- Know your meter: Before switching, understand your home’s energy setup and the type of meter you are using. This can vary between a standard credit meter, a prepayment meter or an economy 7 meter. If you have a standard credit meter, then it means your meter payment is via direct debit, for a prepayment meter, your payment method is top-up via token and an economy 7 meter has two different rate prices for daytime and night.
- Consider exit fees: Consider the exit fee of your current supplier before switching. If your plan is yet to come to an end, you can consider waiting 49 days before the end of your plan to have your exit fee waived.
How long does it take to switch Energy Suppliers
With the introduction of the Energy Switching Guarantee, switching between suppliers is now hassle-free taking no less than five working days. Which most suppliers are signed up with. Once your new supplier receives your switching application, they will provide you with an expected date for your switchover completion. However, in some cases, your new supplier may never reach out even after receiving your switching application. This could mean your new supplier is waiting for your 14-day cooling period to be over before starting the switching process. This cooling period is when you change your mind and cancel your new tariff without incurring charges.
Remember that you won’t experience an interruption in energy during both your switching and cooling periods.
What if i change my mind about Switching
If you change your mind about switching, you will get a 14-day cooling-off period which is a legal requirement set by Offgem. During your cooling-off period, there are some options you can consider;
- Consider alternative supplier: If you still intend to switch but you have changed by your mind about your current supplier, use your cooling period to research other suppliers, compare tariffs and look out for customer reviews to find what you want.
- Contact your new supplier: Inform your new supplier of your intention to cancel the switch. Confirm your cancellation and you can decide that your service remains with your current supplier.
- Return to your previous supplier: You can decide to return to your previous supplier on the condition of your old tariff. Reach out to your current supplier and inform them of your intention to switch back to your old tariff.
However, if you are unsure of any of the above instances, you can decide to change your mind without any consideration. Your energy service will remain intact and not be disrupted. But be aware that you will be automatically moved to the “default tariff” Standard variable and be charged for whatever energy you use during your cooling period.
When can i switch Energy Suppliers?
Deciding on when to switch your suppliers can be a bit difficult, especially with the energy price fluctuation from time to time.
- When moving home: Moving between houses could be the best time to switch your energy supplier. This allows you to assess your energy usage and find ways to cut down on your energy bills. Which could be alternating appliances or exploring different heating systems. And switching to a different tariff could better suit your needs in your new home.
- End of a fixed-term contract: If you are currently on a fixed-term contract that’s coming to an end, then it’s a good time to consider switching. You can switch your supplier 49 days before the end of your contract without incurring charges.
- Seasonal Considerations: Energy usage can vary depending on the season with higher consumption during winter months for heating or summer months for cooling. Consider switching suppliers during off-peak seasons when energy demand is lower, as you may find more competitive rates or better deals.
- Potential Price Increase: Keep an eye on energy market trends and news about potential price increases from your current supplier. If prices are expected to rise significantly, it might be beneficial to switch to a more competitive tariff sooner rather than later. You could opt for a fixed rate tariff which will guarantee your energy bill throughout the fluctuations.
- When you want more than price: You can switch your supplier if they no longer serve you well. While price can be the most important reason for opting for a tariff, on the other hand, customer service keeps you on a tariff. If you are no longer satisfied with your supplier’s service, you can switch to other suppliers that offer great customer service.
- After paying off your energy’s debt: If at any point you are owing your supplier, you will not be allowed to switch unless you clear off your debt. Once you have them cleared, shop around for cheaper tariffs to maintain your energy bill payment and explore ways you could reduce your energy usage. If consequent times you find it adds to paying your energy bills, then you can explore some government energy schemes.
Can I switch if I owe my current Supplier?
You can switch suppliers even if you are owing your current supplier. This is possible if the debt you are owing is within 28 days and not an accumulated debt over several bills. When you are switching with a debt within 28 days, your current supplier will calculate your overall debt and send it as your final bill. However, if you owe your supplier several bills, then you are not allowed to switch until you clear all your debts. Depending on the type of tariff you are on, you can transfer your debt to your new supplier.
Can I switch to Green Energy?
As an energy consumer, you can choose to switch to whichever supplier you wish to. Your choice of energy supplier impacts both your expenses and the environment. Green energy options are expanding. While some suppliers exclusively use renewable sources like wind or sunlight, some offer a mix of green and traditional energy. Therefore, green energy tariffs are not offered at the same price. While some green energy tariffs are offered at almost the same price as the regular tariff, some premium green energy is offered at a more expensive rate. If you are concerned about the price, you can explore alternatives such as paperless billing or suppliers supporting environmental initiatives.
How can I switch if I'm moving Home?
To ensure a smooth transition when moving homes, you can either decide to move between homes with your current supplier or swith to a different supplier in your new home. While moving home could be a great opportunity to switch suppliers especially if you are not satisfied with your current tariff, you want to ensure some measures in place like;
- Inform your current supplier of your moving and switching
- Take a meter reading before leaving and at your new home
- Look out for any exit fee
- Compare prices and energy tariff
By taking a meter reading, you ensure you are only paying for what you use. Once you have decided to switch your supplier, it is important that you start the switching process as soon as possible to avoid being moved to a standard variable-rate tariff which is the most expensive tariff.
However, if you only intend to move home without switching suppliers, you just need to inform your moving and the date. This will help your supplier finalize your account at your old address and issue a final bill.
Can I get a smart meter by Switching?
This option depends on your supplier. However, the current government initiative is to have smart meters in all homes by 2025. By installing a smart meter, you get an accurate reading of your energy usage, which informs you about your gas and electricity consumption and it also automatically sends your gas and electricity reading to your supplier.
Overall, having an electricity and gas meter contributes to your energy usage which in a way helps you save energy as it also informs you of your appliances usage and their consumptions. Helping you reduce the amount of energy going to waste.
Can I switch Suppliers if I run Solar?
Having a solar panel installed on your property does not stop you from switching suppliers. However, if you are worried about some of your existing agreements like; Feed-in-Tariff (FIT). This is a payment you receive by generating your own energy through solar panels, although this is now closed to new applicants, you have nothing to worry about as your FIT payment is different from your electricity and gas contract.
Additionally, there is the Smart Export Guarantee(SEG) which is an amount you earn on certain terms from generating low-carbon energy through solar panels or wind turbines which is a surplus electricity generated back to the national grid. The SEG tariff is offered by some suppliers and this does not affect your SEG payments also you do not have to buy energy from your SEG tariff supplier. You are also free to switch your SEG license supplier
Is it worth it to switch Suppliers?
Whatever the reason you are switching suppliers, it is definitely worth it. However, while it may at first seems like a hassle, keep in mind that the Energy Switch Guarantee ensures a hassle-free switching in no less than 5 days which most suppliers are signed up with. Also, switching suppliers can be cost-saving. If your current tariff is ending soon or if you are on standard variable rate which is more expensive than other tariffs then it’s worth switching to explore other cheaper options.
When should I not switch gas and electricity Supplier?
It’s advisable not to switch energy supplier if;
- You will be incurring a penalty charge or early exit fee. Switching suppliers may not be as cost-effective as expected if your current exit fee is larger than the potential savings. If not you may want to reconsider switching suppliers or wait till your current tariff is 49 days till it expires. However, if you intend to switch to green energy which is typically more expensive than the usual tariff then a higher exit charge should not stop your switching.
- Your energy contracts have specific conditions you have to fulfil before switching this could be; a minimum contract duration or notice period for termination. Then you may want to review your contract terms before considering a switch.
- If you are satisfied with your supplier’s customer service and reliability but intend to switch for a potential cost saving, then it might not be worth the risk. Look beyond cheap energy costs before switching.
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What types of energy tariff can I switch to?
The market has seen a significant increase in the number of new energy providers, some of whom now offer specialized products catering to various needs. For instance, customers can now choose tariffs based on payment structure (such as fixed or variable rates) and type (including single fuel options like gas or electricity, dual fuel plans, prepayment meters, Economy 7/10 plans, and green energy plans that match energy usage with renewable sources like wind or solar).
Can I switch if I’m repaying a debt?
If your debt to your supplier is less than 28 days old, you can still switch providers, and the owed amounts will be added to your final bill by your old supplier.
However, if you have been in debt for over 28 days, you will need to repay the debt before switching, although this rule varies for prepayment meter customers (details below).
It’s important to note that your supplier cannot prevent you from switching if the debt is due to their error.
However, If you are experiencing any difficulty paying your debt, you can consider;
- Having an agreement plan with your supplier
According to the Ofgem rules, your supplier must agree with you on a payment plan you can afford. Under this plan, you can ask for;
- Access to hardship funds
- Payment breaks or reduction
- More time to pay
- Review of
- your payment plan and debt repayment
- Tips on how to use less
2. Grants, Benefits, or Check Scheme
This could be from your supplier or the government.
From Supplier: Ask your supplier about any grants and schemes they offer. Most energy companies provide programs or grants aimed to help with home heating and energy expenses. These initiatives may include improving your home’s energy efficiency or providing free boiler inspections and upgrades. It’s worth noting that for some of these programs, you do not need to be an existing customer to participate.
3. From Government
Under the government grants and scheme, you could be eligible for the following benefits;
- Winter Fuel Payment – available to individuals born on or before 25 September 1957.
- Cold Weather Payment – a payment made for each of seven consecutive days of freezing weather (below freezing) from November to March.
- Warm Home Discount – a discount offered to certain recipients of Pension Credit or individuals in low-income households.
Additionally, if you reside in Scotland or Wales, you may also qualify for:
- Child Winter Heating Assistance – a yearly payment per disabled child and young person under 19 living in Scotland.
- Winter Fuel Support Scheme – an annual payment for Welsh households receiving specific benefits.
What is the Cheapest Energy Tariff?
Your energy costs are directly tied to your usage levels, meaning the amount you pay will fluctuate according to your energy consumption. The prices advertised are based on average consumption levels defined by Ofgem.
The cheapest tariff available is a fixed-rate, fixed-term dual fuel (gas and electricity) deal, billed monthly via direct debit. It’s important to note that while the price per unit of energy remains fixed in these deals, your overall bill will vary depending on your consumption. Variable rate tariffs, on the other hand, can see fluctuations in the unit rate, exposing you to potential price increases.
Variable rate tariffs are often referred to as ‘default’ tariffs. If you are on a fixed-term contract and do not switch at the end of the contract, you will automatically move to your supplier’s default tariff. Customers who have never switched or have not in a long time are usually on default tariffs.
In comparison, fixed-rate tariffs generally offer lower prices than variable-rate options. For customers with prepayment meters, tariffs are usually more expensive than credit tariffs where you pay for energy after consumption.
What is Dual Fuel Discount
Some providers attract customers with a ‘dual fuel’ discount, by combining gas and electricity services at a lower price than purchasing them separately from the same provider. However, it’s important to compare dual fuel offers with the cost of buying electricity from one provider and gas from another. Then you may discover that ‘single’ tariff arrangements are more cost-effective in the long run, but may require the management of two different suppliers, bills, and points of contact.
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Sky Broadband
Offer ends 30th Jan. 2023
£45.90/month
Unlimited minutes
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Unlimited Text
Sky Broadband
£45.90/month
Unlimited minutes
12 months of 500 GB data
12 months
Contract length
£30.9 upfront cost
250 mbps Total Cost
Unlimited Text
Sky Broadband
£45.90/month
Unlimited minutes
12 months of 500 GB data
12 months
Contract length
£30.9 upfront cost
250 mbps Total Cost
Unlimited Text
Sky Broadband
Offer ends 30th Jan. 2023
£45.90/month
Unlimited minutes
12 months of 500 GB data
12 months
Contract length
£30.9 upfront cost
250 mbps Total Cost
Unlimited Text
Sky Broadband
Offer ends 30th Jan. 2023
£45.90/month
Unlimited minutes
12 months of 500 GB data
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Contract length
£30.9 upfront cost
250 mbps Total Cost
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