Short answer
An MPRN, or Meter Point Reference Number, identifies a gas supply point in Great Britain. It is usually 6 to 10 digits long, is printed on your gas bill, and stays the same when you change supplier.
Key takeaways
- An MPRN identifies a gas supply point and is usually 6–10 digits.
- It stays the same when you switch supplier or replace the meter.
- Find it on your gas bill or through Find My Supplier.
Where to find your MPRN
- On your gas bill, labelled MPRN, meter point reference or supply number
- In your gas supplier's online account
- On contract paperwork and renewal letters
- Sometimes on a label on or near the gas meter
If you can't find it
You can look up your gas supplier and MPRN using the industry service Find My Supplier, run by Xoserve, using your postcode and address. This is particularly useful if you have just moved into premises and don't know who supplies the gas.
MPRN, meter serial number and AQ
| Item | What it identifies | Does it change? |
|---|---|---|
| MPRN | The supply point | No, it stays with the premises |
| Meter serial number | The physical meter | Yes, if the meter is replaced |
| Annual quantity (AQ) | Estimated yearly gas use | Yes, recalculated from readings |
Why you need it for a review
Suppliers use the MPRN to identify your supply point, check its consumption history and price a contract. Giving the right MPRN at the start avoids delays and quotes for the wrong meter.
Several gas meters
Larger premises or sites with several buildings can have more than one gas supply, each with its own MPRN. List them all when you make an enquiry.
MPRN and MPAN
MPRN is for gas; MPAN is for electricity. If you are reviewing both fuels, you'll need both. See MPAN explained.
Gas emergencies
If you smell gas, call the National Gas Emergency number on 0800 111 999. You don't need your MPRN to report an emergency.
Reading your gas meter
Accurate readings keep your bills and AQ correct. On a digital meter, note the numbers shown, ignoring any after a decimal point or in red. On a dial meter, read each dial from left to right, and if a pointer sits between two numbers, take the lower one. Check whether the meter shows cubic metres or cubic feet; your bill should state which.
Smart and AMR gas meters
Many business gas meters now send readings automatically, either smart meters or automated meter reading (AMR) devices. They reduce estimated bills and give more accurate consumption data for reviews.
Common problems
- Two MPRNs at one site: make sure you are quoting the right one for the right meter.
- An MPRN linked to the wrong address: this can happen after building changes; your supplier can raise it with the industry.
- A supply that appears unregistered: ask your supplier or use Find My Supplier to check.
Sources
- Xoserve: Find My Supplier (findmysupplier.energy)
- Ofgem: Energy advice for businesses (ofgem.gov.uk)
Questions
Does my MPRN change when I switch supplier?
No. The MPRN belongs to the supply point, so it stays the same.
How long is an MPRN?
Usually between 6 and 10 digits.
I’ve just moved in. How do I find my gas supplier?
Use Find My Supplier with your postcode, or check paperwork left by the previous occupier.
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