Contracts and renewals
Switching business energy suppliers
Short answer
To switch business energy supplier, you agree a new contract that starts when your current one ends. The new supplier handles the switch. Your physical supply doesn’t change, so there is no interruption.
Key takeaways
- Agree a new contract that starts on your current end date.
- Your supply isn’t interrupted; only the billing company changes.
- Debt, wrong meter numbers or missed notice can delay a switch.
The steps
- Find your end date and notice terms. Check your contract or ask your supplier.
- Gather your details: a recent bill, your MPAN or MPRN, and your annual consumption.
- Compare offers on total cost and terms, not just unit rate.
- Agree the new contract, with a start date matching your current end date.
- Give notice if required by your current contract.
- Take a meter reading on the switch date and keep it.
- Check your first bill from the new supplier against the agreed rates.
How long it takes
The industry's central switching service, introduced in 2022, has made the process quicker. In practice, most business switches are arranged to happen on the day your current contract ends, so the timing is set by your end date rather than by the switch itself.
What can hold a switch up
- Your current supplier can object in some cases, for example if there is an outstanding debt or you are still within a fixed term.
- Incorrect MPAN or MPRN details.
- Credit checks or deposit requests from the new supplier.
- Notice not given where the contract required it.
Will anything change on site?
No. The same cables and pipes deliver your energy. Your meter usually stays the same, though some suppliers may offer a smart meter later.
Switching while in contract
Leaving a fixed contract early usually means termination fees. It is normally better to agree a new contract now that starts when your current one ends. See ending a contract.
Switching gas and electricity together
You can move both fuels to one supplier, but they usually remain separate contracts. If your end dates differ, you might switch one now and the other later, or align them over time.
Switching with multiple sites
Each supply switches separately, based on its own end date. A site list makes this manageable. See multi-site procurement.
What to keep
- The signed contract or principal terms
- Proof of any notice you gave
- The meter reading on the switch date
- Your final bill from the old supplier
Common mistakes
- Switching while in contract and paying termination fees
- Not giving notice where it was required
- Not checking that the first bill uses the agreed rates
Sources
- Ofgem: Switching energy supplier for your business (ofgem.gov.uk)
- Ofgem: Energy advice for businesses (ofgem.gov.uk)
Questions
Will my supply be cut off when I switch?
No. Only the company that bills you changes.
Can I switch if I owe my supplier money?
Your supplier may object if there is outstanding debt. Clearing or agreeing the balance usually resolves this.
Do I need a new meter?
No. Switching doesn’t require a new meter.
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