What information do I need to switch energy provider?
Switching energy supplier with Uswitch is simple - you only need your postcode and the name of your tariff. If you want to pay your energy bills by Direct Debit, you’ll also need your bank details to hand. We’ll then use this information to show you your options.
You can compare energy prices today by entering your postcode below.
Customer review"As I have registered with Uswitch I am kept informed if a new tariff comes along that is £50 or more cheaper than the one I am currently using. Uswitch told me about one and so I switched. I found it very easy. The database shows me all energy suppliers and how much it would cost based on my current usage, and then I simply select the one I want. I would choose Uswitch again as it saves me time searching for new rates."
Tom, Uswitch customer
Why should I switch energy supplier?
You should switch energy supplier if you haven't switched for a while - certainly if it's been more than a year since your last switch. This means you're almost certainly overpaying for your energy. There are fixed deals currently available that will be cheaper than the deal you're on.
It only takes a few minutes to compare energy deals, and if you switch, the process should be completed within five days, so it couldn't be easier to start saving.
Find out how the energy switching process works by watching the video above, or read on for more information.
When is the best time to change energy supplier?
In a normal energy market, the best time to switch energy supplier would be when (or just before) you come onto a standard variable energy tariff so you can fix your deal at a lower price. However, although there are fixed deals available, the wholesale market remains unpredictable and it's difficult to say whether switching is the right move for you.
You may be better off trying to save energy by managing your energy use around the home. Uswitch's new mobile app can help with that - find out more about the app here.
Tips to switch energy supplier
Save time when switching
Switching gas and electricity can be done in minutes. However, to make things even quicker, gather all your key information before you start so it’s at hand. Everything you need should be on a recent bill.
Know your energy meters
Before you switch energy, there are a few things you’ll need to know about your home and the gas and electricity meters you already have in place. We may ask whether you have a standard credit meter, prepayment meter or Economy 7 meter, as that will determine the type of energy tariff you can switch to.
You’re on a standard credit meter if you pay for your energy by Direct Debit or regular billing, whereas prepayment meters need topping up with a key, token or app. If you’ve got an Economy 7 meter, you’ll see two different rates on your electricity bill – one for daytime use and one for evening use.
If you’re looking to switch energy provider at a business premises, head to Uswitch for Business for guidance on switching energy suppliers in commercial properties.
Choose the right energy tariff
When you compare energy with Uswitch, we’ll show you both fixed and variable gas and electricity tariffs. Fixed energy tariffs guarantee the price you pay for each unit of energy for the whole of the fixed contract (usually 12-18 months) while variable tariffs can go up or down depending on what’s happening in the energy market.
We’ll also need to know whether you’d like a dual fuel tariff or whether you’d like to switch gas or electricity tariffs separately. If you use both gas and electricity in your home, it can often work out cheaper to get both fuels from the same supplier under a dual fuel tariff.
If you’re keen to switch to a renewable energy plan, look out for the green badge on your energy comparison results. Many energy tariffs now offer some level of renewable energy, so as well as saving money you can be sure you’re doing your bit to save the planet too. Under our unique Green Accreditation scheme we’ve categorised tariffs into Bronze, Silver and Gold levels depending on how renewable their energy is.
Consider customer reviews
When switching energy supplier, you’re probably hoping for a big saving. But while price is important, you should also make sure your new supplier offers great service. Our energy comparison includes independent star ratings based on real customer reviews, so you can get to know your new energy supplier before you switch.
Don’t dismiss small suppliers
While you’re comparing energy suppliers with Uswitch, you might come across some brand names you haven’t heard of. Many smaller suppliers offer competitive pricing and have great customer reviews, so be sure to consider them for your energy switch.
Avoid exit fees
If you’re on a fixed energy plan that hasn’t expired yet, your supplier may charge you an exit fee if you want to switch. When you compare energy with Uswitch, we’ll let you know if there are any exit fees to pay on your current tariff. Exit fees are usually waived around 49 days before your plan ends, so if you’d rather wait until then, we’ll tell you when it’s time to switch energy without having to pay a fee to your supplier. If you’ve never switched energy before or it’s been a while, your plan has likely come to an end and you’re free to switch and save.
How do I switch energy suppliers if I’m moving home?
When you’re moving house, gas and electricity bills might be low on your list of priorities. But it’s handy to know how to switch energy supplier if you want to ensure you’re not paying too much to power your new home.
You should notify your current energy supplier at least 48 hours before the move, so they can close your account and send your final bill to your new address. Make sure you take a meter reading on the day you move to ensure your last bill is accurate.
You’ll need to take another meter reading at your new home on the day you move in, then contact the supplier of the new property (read about how to find out who your supplier is). The supplier can transfer the account into your name, but remember it might not be the cheapest energy deal for you. Moving house is a great opportunity to save on your energy, so start by entering your new postcode on Uswitch. You can find out more about how to switch energy supplier when moving home in our guide.
What happens after I change energy supplier?
You don't have to worry about a thing after you've switched energy. Your new and old suppliers work out the switchover between themselves without you having to get involved.
How long does it take to switch energy supplier?
Most of the suppliers we work with adhere to the Energy Switch Guarantee, which means your energy switch should take no more than five days from the date your new provider receives your completed application. If you want to change electricity supplier and gas supplier, the dates may be different for each. Don’t worry though, your energy supply will not be interrupted at any point.
Will I hear from my new energy supplier?
You’ll receive a welcome pack and letter or email from your new supplier within a few days of switching. This will outline what you’ve agreed to and give you the details of your new plan. Remember to provide your starting meter read to them when they request it, as they will give this to your old supplier to use for your final bill.
Will I be billed twice when I switch energy supplier?
No. Both energy companies will agree a switchover date, so you won’t be billed twice for the same period. You can cancel your Direct Debit with your old supplier if you wish, but make sure you wait until the switch is complete.
What if I change my mind about my energy switch?
You have a cooling-off period of 14 days. If you decide you no longer want to change energy provider, just contact your new supplier and let it know. It will be able to cancel the switch for you without interrupting your supply.
