Understanding Changes to Your Energy Supply
When your energy supplier changes, it can feel confusing or even worrying – especially if you didn’t ask for the change yourself. There are a few common reasons why your gas or electricity supplier might switch to a different company:
1. Your supplier goes out of business:
If your energy company stops trading (often called “going bust”), Ofgem – the UK’s energy regulator – will automatically move your supply to a new company. This process is called a “Supplier of Last Resort” transfer. You don’t need to do anything to keep your gas or electricity connected, but you will become a customer of the new supplier, sometimes with different prices or terms.
2. You choose to switch suppliers:
You might decide to change suppliers to get a better deal or improved service. In this case, the process is usually straightforward, and your new supplier will handle the switch for you. You should always receive confirmation letters or emails from both your old and new suppliers.
3. Your account is transferred for other reasons:
Occasionally, your account might be moved due to company mergers, acquisitions, or administrative errors. If this happens, you should be notified in writing.
How the Energy Supply Takeover Process Works
If your supplier goes out of business, Ofgem will select a new supplier for you. The new company will contact you to explain what happens next, including details about your tariff, any outstanding credit or debt, and how to set up your new account. Your gas or electricity won’t be cut off during this process.
If you’ve switched suppliers yourself, the change usually takes about 21 days. Your new supplier will keep you updated, and you should check your final bill from your old supplier to make sure your account is closed correctly.
Why It’s Important to Know Who Supplies Your Energy
Knowing who currently supplies your gas and electricity is essential for several reasons:
Avoiding scams: Fraudsters sometimes pretend to be from energy companies. Always check who your actual supplier is before sharing personal information or making payments.
Resolving issues: If you have a problem with your bill, a power cut, or want to change your tariff, you’ll need to contact the correct supplier.
Understanding your rights: If your supplier changes without your consent, or you’re unhappy with the switch, you have rights under Ofgem’s rules and the Consumer Rights Act 2015. For example, you can challenge an “erroneous transfer” if you were switched by mistake.
If you’re unsure who your current supplier is, you can find out by checking recent bills, contacting your previous supplier, or using official helplines for gas and electricity networks.
For more information about what to do if you experience issues, or to understand your rights in greater detail, see our guide on problems with your energy supply or supplier. This can help you take the right steps if you’re facing unexpected changes or difficulties.
Why Your Energy Supplier Might Change
When your energy supplier changes, it’s natural to wonder why this has happened and what it means for you. There are a few common reasons why your gas or electricity supplier might change, each with its own implications and protections for you as a consumer.
1. Your Supplier Has Gone Bust
One of the most common reasons for a change is if your current energy supplier goes out of business. This is sometimes referred to as your supplier “going bust” or becoming insolvent. In such cases, you don’t need to worry about losing your gas or electricity supply. Ofgem, the UK energy regulator, has a process in place known as the Supplier of Last Resort (SoLR). Through this process, Ofgem will automatically transfer your account to a new supplier to ensure your energy supply continues without interruption and your credit balance is protected.
If you find yourself in this situation, you can read more about what to expect and what steps to take on our guide: your energy supplier has gone bust.
2. You’ve Switched Supplier
Another reason your energy supplier might change is if you decide to switch to a different company. Many people choose to switch suppliers to get better rates, improved customer service, or access to green energy tariffs. When you initiate a switch, your new supplier will handle the transfer process, which is regulated to ensure a smooth transition and prevent any disruption to your supply. Under UK law, you have a 14-day cooling-off period after agreeing to a new contract, during which you can change your mind without penalty.
3. Changes in the Energy Market or Supplier Mergers
Sometimes, changes in the wider energy market can lead to your supplier being taken over by another company or merging with another provider. This can happen as a result of government reforms or shifts in the industry, such as those highlighted in the Energy Market Reform. These reforms aim to make the market more competitive and secure, but they can also mean that your supplier’s name or terms may change if companies combine or are acquired.
If your supplier merges with another or is bought out, you’ll usually be notified in advance. Your contract terms and rights are typically protected under consumer law, but it’s always a good idea to review any communications you receive and check how the changes might affect your tariff or service.
No matter why your energy supplier changes, you have rights as a consumer. Your energy supply will not be cut off, and your credit balance is protected by regulations enforced by Ofgem. If you have further questions about what to do in these situations, be sure to explore our related guides or contact your new supplier for more information.
How to Find Out Who Supplies Your Energy Now
How to Find Out Who Supplies Your Energy Now
If you’re unsure who currently supplies your gas or electricity, there are several straightforward steps you can take to find out. This is especially important if you’ve recently moved home, haven’t received a bill for some time, or have noticed a new company name on your correspondence.
1. Check Your Recent Bills or Letters
The easiest way to identify your current energy supplier is to look at your most recent bill, statement, or letter. The supplier’s name, contact details, and your account number will be clearly displayed. If you receive bills by email, check your inbox (including your spam or junk folder) for recent communications from your supplier.
If you do not have a recent bill – perhaps because you’ve just moved in – ask the previous occupants, landlord, or letting agent if they can provide details of the existing supplier.
2. Contact Your Current Supplier or Use Official Resources
If you’re still unsure, you can contact the supplier whose name appears on any recent correspondence. They can confirm whether they are currently supplying your property.
For electricity, if you have no paperwork or are unsure, you can contact your local electricity distribution company. They maintain records of which supplier is responsible for each property. For gas, you can contact the Meter Point Administration Service (MPAS) to find out who your current gas supplier is.
Ofgem, the UK’s energy regulator, sets out guidelines requiring suppliers to provide clear information to customers about their accounts and any changes to their supply. Under the Gas Act 1986 and the Electricity Act 1989, suppliers must ensure customers know who is providing their energy and how to contact them.
3. Watch Out for Unexpected Changes or Unfamiliar Company Names
Sometimes, you may notice a new or unfamiliar company name on your bills or correspondence. This could happen if your previous supplier has been taken over, or if your supplier has gone out of business and Ofgem has appointed a new supplier for you.
If you receive a letter or bill from a company you do not recognise, do not ignore it. Check the letter carefully for any explanation. Ofgem’s Supplier of Last Resort (SoLR) process ensures that, if your supplier goes out of business, your supply will continue and you will be informed of your new supplier. You have the right to ask questions, and you are entitled to clear and timely information about any change.
Practical Advice and Common Questions
What if I haven’t received any bills?
If you have not received any bills or letters, and cannot find information from previous occupants, contact your local electricity distribution company or the MPAS for gas. They can help you identify your supplier.Can my supplier change without my permission?
Your supplier cannot be changed without your consent, except in specific circumstances such as when your supplier goes out of business and Ofgem appoints a new one. If you suspect your supply has been switched without your permission (known as ‘erroneous transfer’), contact the company listed on your bill or Ofgem for advice.Am I protected during a change of supplier?
Yes. Regulations require that you are informed of any changes, and your supply will not be interrupted. You also have the right to switch supplier if you are not happy with the new arrangement.
By following these steps and knowing your rights, you can stay informed and in control of your energy supply, even if there are unexpected changes.
Steps to Take if Your Energy Supplier Has Changed
When you find out your energy supplier has changed – whether due to your original supplier going out of business or another reason – it’s important to take a few clear steps to protect your interests and understand your rights.
1. Confirm Who Your New Energy Supplier Is
The first thing to do is verify the identity of your new supplier. You should receive a letter or email from the new company explaining the change and outlining what happens next. This communication should include your account details and contact information for your new supplier’s customer service team. If you haven’t received anything, check your previous supplier’s website for updates or contact their customer service.
If you didn’t agree to the switch, or if the change seems suspicious, read our advice on if you didn’t agree to switch energy supplier.
2. Understand Your Rights and What to Expect
When your energy supplier changes, you have certain legal protections:
No Interruption to Supply: Your gas or electricity will continue to flow as normal during the transition. Ofgem, the UK energy regulator, ensures that customers are protected in these situations.
Tariffs and Contracts: The new supplier will usually put you on a ‘deemed contract’ – a standard tariff – until you choose a different tariff or switch to another provider. You’re not locked in and can shop around for a better deal without exit fees.
Outstanding Credit or Debt: If your old supplier owed you money (for example, if your account was in credit), your new supplier or the administrator of your old supplier should contact you about repayments. Similarly, if you owe money, you’ll be told how to pay it.
No Immediate Action Required: You don’t need to do anything right away, but it’s a good idea to take a meter reading on the date of the change and keep a record for your own protection.
3. Handling Billing or Service Issues
It’s common to have questions or concerns when your supplier changes. Here’s what you can do:
Check Your Bills: Review any bills from your new supplier carefully. Make sure your opening meter readings match your records. Contact the supplier if you spot any errors.
Service Problems: If you experience issues such as power cuts or poor customer service, report them to your new supplier. They are responsible for resolving problems, even if they’ve only recently taken over your account.
Switching Suppliers: You are free to switch to a different supplier at any time. There are no penalties for leaving a ‘deemed contract’ set up by your new supplier.
If you think you’ve been switched without your consent or suspect fraudulent activity, find out what to do if you’ve been scammed.
By following these steps, you can make sure your rights are protected and your energy supply remains secure. If you’re unsure or need further help, don’t hesitate to reach out to your new supplier’s customer service team for guidance.
Confirming Your New Supplier
Confirming Your New Supplier
When your energy supplier changes – whether due to a takeover, a switch you requested, or your previous supplier going out of business – it’s important to confirm who your new supplier is. This helps you avoid confusion, ensures you’re billed correctly, and allows you to understand your rights and options under the new arrangement.
Look for Official Communication
Your new energy supplier is required by law to contact you. You should receive an official letter, email, or phone call from the new company introducing themselves. This communication typically includes:
The name of your new supplier
Your new account number
Details about your tariff or contract
How to get in touch with customer service
If your previous supplier has gone out of business, the new supplier is appointed by Ofgem (the energy regulator) under the Supplier of Last Resort process. The new supplier must contact you as soon as possible to explain what will happen next.
Tip: Be cautious of scams. Genuine communications from your new supplier will not ask for bank details or upfront payments out of the blue. If you’re unsure, use contact information from official websites to verify any messages you receive.
Check Your Meter Reference Numbers
To confirm who is supplying your gas or electricity, you can check your meter reference numbers:
For electricity: Look for your Meter Point Administration Number (MPAN). This is a unique 21-digit number, sometimes called a ‘Supply Number’ or ‘S-Number’, usually found on your electricity bill.
For gas: Look for your Meter Point Reference Number (MPRN). This is a unique number for your gas supply, typically 6-10 digits long, found on your gas bill.
If you don’t have a recent bill, you can still obtain your MPAN or MPRN by contacting your network operator or using official lookup tools provided by government or regulator websites.
Use Official Sources to Verify Your Supplier
To be certain about who supplies your energy, you can use official government or regulator websites. These services allow you to enter your address or meter reference numbers to confirm your current supplier for both gas and electricity. This is especially useful if you haven’t received communication from a new company or if you’re unsure about the legitimacy of any contact you’ve had.
Your Rights and What to Expect
Under Ofgem’s regulations, you are entitled to clear information about your new supplier and your contract. You should not be charged exit fees if your supplier has changed because your old company went out of business. Your new supplier must honour any credit balances you had with your previous supplier, and they are required to provide you with clear terms and conditions.
If you have not heard from a new supplier within a reasonable time, or if you believe a mistake has been made, you should contact the energy regulator or use official channels to raise your concerns.
By following these steps, you can be confident about who is supplying your energy, understand your rights, and avoid potential issues with billing or service.
Your Rights with a New Energy Supplier
When a new company takes over your gas or electricity supply, you are protected by several important rights as a consumer. Understanding these rights can help you feel confident and ensure you’re treated fairly during the transition.
Right to Clear Information and Fair Treatment
Your new energy supplier is legally required to provide you with clear, accurate information about your contract, prices, and any changes that may affect your service. This includes details about your tariff, any exit fees, and how your bills will be calculated. You should receive this information in writing, usually within a few weeks of the takeover.
Suppliers must also treat all customers fairly, regardless of your background, location, or circumstances. If you believe you are being treated unfairly or differently compared to other customers, you have the right to fight discrimination by energy suppliers.
Protection Against Unfair Charges or Poor Service
You are protected from being charged unfair fees or facing poor service. Ofgem, the energy regulator, sets rules that all suppliers must follow, including limits on how much they can charge for certain services and requirements to handle billing and complaints properly. If your new supplier tries to charge you for debts owed to your old supplier, they must provide a clear explanation and only bill you for what you actually owe.
If you experience problems such as incorrect bills, unexplained charges, or poor customer service, you have the right to challenge these issues. Keep copies of all correspondence and bills to support your case.
How to Raise Complaints
If you are unhappy with the way your new supplier is handling your account, you should first contact their customer service team to explain the issue. Make sure to provide as much detail as possible and keep a record of your communication.
If your complaint isn’t resolved within eight weeks, or you’re not satisfied with the outcome, you can escalate the matter to the Energy Ombudsman. The Ombudsman is an independent body that can investigate your complaint and order the supplier to fix the problem, apologise, or offer compensation if necessary.
Remember, you are not alone if things go wrong. Knowing your rights and how to take action can help you resolve issues quickly and ensure you receive the service you deserve.
Handling Billing and Service Issues
When your energy supply is taken over by a new company, it’s important to stay on top of your bills and service to avoid unexpected issues. Here’s how you can handle common billing and service problems during this transition:
Check Your Bills Carefully
After a supplier switch, your first bills from the new company might look different or contain unexpected charges. Review each bill closely for:
Correct meter readings (estimated vs. actual)
Charges that match your usage and tariff
No unexplained fees or backdated charges
If you spot something that doesn’t seem right – such as a higher bill than usual or charges for a period already paid to your old supplier – make a note of the details. Keep copies of your previous bills and any correspondence, as these can help resolve disputes.
Contact the New Supplier Promptly
If you notice errors or have concerns about your bill or service, contact your new supplier as soon as possible. Provide them with:
Your account details
Evidence of previous payments or meter readings
A clear explanation of the issue
Most billing and service problems can be sorted out quickly if you raise them early. If you rely on a prepayment meter, you might experience issues topping up or accessing your meter after a supplier change. For step-by-step guidance, see what to do if you have problems getting to or topping up your prepayment meter.
Escalating Complaints and Getting Help
If your supplier doesn’t resolve your issue within eight weeks – or you’re unhappy with their response – you have the right to escalate your complaint. Under Ofgem rules, all energy suppliers must have a clear complaints procedure. You can:
Ask for your complaint to be reviewed by a manager or specialist team
Request a written explanation or ‘deadlock letter’ if you reach a stalemate
If your complaint isn’t resolved, you can take your case to the Energy Ombudsman, who can investigate and order the supplier to put things right. This service is free and independent.
Know Your Rights
You are protected by the Gas Act 1986 and the Electricity Act 1989, as well as Ofgem’s supplier licence conditions. These rules ensure you:
Receive clear and accurate bills
Are not charged unfairly or without explanation
Can challenge mistakes and seek redress if things go wrong
Staying informed and acting quickly can help you resolve most billing and service issues smoothly. If you experience ongoing problems, don’t hesitate to use the formal complaints process and seek independent help.
What to Do if Your Energy Supplier Goes Bust
When your energy supplier goes out of business, it can be unsettling – but there are clear protections in place to ensure you’re not left without gas or electricity. Here’s what happens, what you should do, and how your rights are protected.
What Happens When a Supplier Goes Bust
If your energy supplier stops trading, you don’t need to worry about your supply being cut off. Ofgem, the energy regulator, runs a “safety net” process to protect consumers. This means your gas and electricity will continue as normal while Ofgem works to appoint a new supplier for your account. You won’t need to contact anyone immediately – your supply is automatically protected.
For up-to-date information about which company has taken over your supply, you can check with Ofgem. The new supplier, sometimes called a “Supplier of Last Resort,” will get in touch with you directly to explain your options and next steps.
Steps You Should Take
To make the transition as smooth as possible, follow these steps:
Take Meter Readings: As soon as you learn your supplier has gone bust, take a note (and a photo if possible) of your gas and electricity meter readings. This helps ensure your new supplier bills you accurately.
Wait for Contact: Ofgem will appoint a new supplier, who will contact you about your new account. You don’t need to switch suppliers yourself unless you want to after the transfer is complete.
Don’t Cancel Direct Debits Immediately: Unless you’re specifically told to do so, don’t cancel any direct debits. This can help with the process of refunding any credit you might have with your old supplier.
Check Your Credit: If you had credit with your old supplier, the new supplier will usually arrange to have it transferred. Ofgem’s guidance covers what happens to any money owed – whether you’re in credit or debt.
Review Your Tariff: The new supplier will put you on a “deemed” or special tariff, which may not be the cheapest. Once you’ve been contacted, you’re free to shop around and switch to a different tariff or supplier without exit fees.
For a detailed step-by-step guide, see your energy supplier has gone bust.
Your Rights and Protections
UK law provides strong protections for energy customers in these situations. The Energy Supply (Gas and Electricity) (Consumer Complaints and Standards) Regulations 2008 set out how suppliers must handle customer complaints and what information they must provide. This means you have the right to clear communication and fair treatment throughout the process.
If you have a complaint or are unsure about your rights, you can refer to these regulations to understand the standards suppliers must meet.
Key Points to Remember
Your energy supply will not be interrupted, even if your supplier goes out of business.
Ofgem will appoint a new supplier, who will contact you.
Take a meter reading and keep any recent bills handy.
You can switch to a different supplier or tariff after the transfer if you wish.
Your consumer rights are protected by law.
For the latest updates and further guidance, visit Ofgem.
Protecting Yourself from Scams and Unauthorized Supplier Changes
Protecting yourself from scams and unauthorized supplier changes is essential for ensuring your energy supply remains secure and that your personal information is not misused. Here’s how you can spot potential scams, what to do if you suspect something is wrong, and steps to keep your details safe.
How to Recognise Energy Supply Scams and Unauthorized Switches
Scammers often try to take advantage of confusion around energy supply changes, especially if your supplier has recently gone out of business or you’ve received unexpected communications. Here are some common signs to watch for:
Unexpected Contact: You receive calls, emails, or letters claiming your energy supplier has changed without your consent, or you’re asked to provide personal or payment details to “confirm” your supply.
Pressure to Act Quickly: Scammers may urge you to make immediate payments or switch suppliers on the spot.
Requests for Sensitive Information: Be wary if you’re asked for your bank details, passwords, or other personal data.
Official-Looking Documents: Fraudsters may send fake bills or notices that appear to be from legitimate companies or regulatory bodies.
Unfamiliar Suppliers: You notice that your energy bill is now coming from a company you haven’t agreed to switch to.
By law, energy suppliers must follow the rules set out by Ofgem, the UK energy regulator, which require them to obtain your explicit consent before switching your supply. If you haven’t agreed to a change, it may be an unauthorized switch or a scam.
What to Do If You Suspect You’ve Been Scammed
If you think you’ve been targeted by a scam or your energy supply has been switched without your permission, act quickly:
Do Not Share Information: Avoid giving out any personal or payment details until you’ve confirmed the legitimacy of the contact.
Contact Your Current Supplier: Use the official contact details on your bill or their website to check if your supply has genuinely changed.
Check Your Account: Look for any unexpected changes in your account details, bills, or direct debits.
Keep Records: Save any suspicious communications and make notes of phone calls, including the caller’s name and number.
For detailed guidance on your next steps, see what to do if you’ve been scammed.
Reporting Scams and Protecting Your Personal Information
Reporting suspected scams helps protect not only yourself but also others in your community. Here’s how you can take action:
Report to Your Supplier: Inform your energy supplier immediately if you believe your supply has been switched without your consent or if you’ve received suspicious communications.
Alert the Authorities: In the UK, you can report energy scams to Action Fraud, the national fraud and cybercrime reporting centre. This can help prevent further scams and support investigations.
Protect Your Details: Never share your bank or personal details with anyone unless you are sure of their identity and legitimacy. Use strong, unique passwords for your energy accounts and regularly monitor your statements for unusual activity.
Know Your Rights: Under Ofgem’s rules, you have the right to be switched back to your original supplier if an unauthorized switch occurs. Suppliers must resolve mistaken switches promptly and ensure you are not left out of pocket.
Staying informed and vigilant is your best defence. If you’re ever unsure, take your time to verify any changes to your energy supply and seek advice before responding to unexpected requests. For further support, remember to review what to do if you’ve been scammed.
Managing Your Energy Supply During Difficult Situations
When you’re facing uncertainty with your energy supply – whether due to supplier changes, financial difficulties, or unexpected outages – it’s important to know your rights and what steps you can take to stay safe and supported. Here’s how to manage your energy supply during challenging times:
What to Do If You’re Told Your Energy Supply Will Be Disconnected
If you’ve received a warning that your gas or electricity might be cut off, it’s crucial to act quickly. Disconnections usually happen because of unpaid bills, but energy companies must follow strict rules before turning off your supply. They’re required to give you advance notice and offer payment plans or support if you’re struggling.
To understand your options and the process involved, visit if you’ve been told your energy supply will be disconnected. This guide explains your rights, what your supplier must do before disconnecting you, and how to negotiate a solution – especially if you’re considered vulnerable, such as being elderly, disabled, or having young children at home.
Preparing for and Handling Power Cuts
Power cuts can happen unexpectedly, whether due to bad weather, maintenance, or issues with your supplier. It’s wise to prepare in advance so you’re not caught off guard. Simple steps like keeping a torch handy, having warm clothing available, and making a list of emergency contacts can make a big difference.
For practical steps to get ready and what to do during an outage, see power cuts – preparation and tips. This resource covers how to report a power cut, keep your household safe, and look after vulnerable family members.
If you’ve experienced a power cut, you might be entitled to compensation, especially if the outage was prolonged or handled incorrectly by your provider. Learn how to get compensation if you have a power cut, including eligibility criteria and how to make a claim.
Getting Financial Help with Energy Bills
Struggling to pay your energy bills is more common than you might think, and help is available. Suppliers must work with you to find affordable payment plans and may offer grants or hardship funds. In some cases, government schemes like the Warm Home Discount or Winter Fuel Payment could apply.
For a full overview of your options, including how to apply for support and what to do if you’re in debt to your energy supplier, visit get help with your energy bills.
By knowing your rights and taking practical steps, you can manage your energy supply more confidently – even during difficult situations. If you’re unsure what to do next, explore the linked resources above for guidance tailored to your circumstances.
Additional Considerations After a Supplier Change
After your energy supplier changes, there are a few extra points to consider to make sure you’re protected and not paying more than you should.
Charges from Your Landlord
If you rent your home, your landlord might be responsible for arranging the energy supply, especially in situations where bills are included in your rent or you live in a property with multiple tenants. It’s important to understand what your landlord can charge for energy. There are specific rules about how much your landlord can charge you – they cannot make a profit on the energy they supply and must only pass on the cost they pay to the energy company. If you think you’re being overcharged, you have the right to ask for a breakdown of costs and challenge any unfair charges.
If Your Home Is on a Heat Network
Some properties, especially flats or new developments, get their heating and hot water through a communal system known as a heat network. If your home is on a heat network, the process for supplier changes can be different, and you might not be able to choose your own energy provider. If you’re having trouble with your heat supply or are unsure about your rights, it’s worth checking if your home is on a heat network. This resource explains your options and what to do if there are interruptions or issues with your supply.
Other Services: Phone, Internet, or TV
Sometimes, problems with your energy supplier can be part of a wider issue – such as difficulties with other utilities like your phone, internet, or TV services. If you’re experiencing repeated problems across several services, you might want to consider whether it’s time to switch phone, internet or TV provider. Reviewing your contracts and comparing deals can help you find better service and potentially save money.
Taking these additional steps after a supplier change can help you stay informed, avoid unnecessary costs, and ensure all your household services are running smoothly. If you have further questions about your rights or need help resolving an issue, remember that support is available.
Saving Money and Managing Your Energy Supply Effectively
Knowing who currently supplies your gas or electricity is the first step to taking control of your energy bills. When you’re aware of your supplier, you can compare tariffs, negotiate better deals, or access support if you’re struggling to pay. If your supplier has changed – whether due to a company takeover or your previous supplier going out of business – it’s important to check your new tariff and ensure you’re not paying more than necessary.
How Knowing Your Supplier Helps You Save
Understanding your current energy supplier and tariff allows you to shop around for better deals. Energy companies often offer competitive rates to new customers, so you might be able to switch and save money. Even if you stay with your current supplier, knowing your contract terms can help you avoid expensive default tariffs and find discounts or fixed-rate deals.
If your supplier has changed, you should receive a welcome letter from the new company. This letter will explain your new tariff, payment methods, and any changes to your account. Always check these details carefully, as you may be able to negotiate a better rate or switch to a different supplier if you’re not happy.
Tips for Cutting Your UK Energy Bills
There are several practical steps you can take to reduce your energy costs:
Compare tariffs regularly: Use comparison tools to see if you can get a better deal elsewhere.
Check for exit fees: Some contracts charge a fee if you leave early, so factor this into your decision.
Reduce energy usage: Simple actions like turning off lights, using energy-efficient appliances, and improving insulation can make a big difference.
Set up direct debits: Many suppliers offer discounts if you pay by direct debit.
Submit regular meter readings: This ensures you’re billed accurately, not on estimated usage.
For a full list of ways to save, including information on available grants and support, visit cut your UK energy bills – expert tips, grants & support.
Grants and Support for Energy Costs
If you’re struggling to pay your energy bills, you may be eligible for financial help. The UK government and some energy suppliers offer grants, discounts, and schemes to support households, especially during cold months or if you’re on a low income. Examples include the Warm Home Discount, Winter Fuel Payment, and support for vulnerable customers.
Suppliers are legally required under Ofgem rules to support customers in financial difficulty. This could include setting up affordable payment plans or offering advice on reducing your usage.
If you’re unsure about your rights or what support is available, it’s worth checking for up-to-date advice and contacting your supplier directly. Taking action early can help you avoid debt and keep your home warm and safe.
By staying informed about your energy supplier and making use of available resources, you can manage your energy supply more effectively and reduce your costs.
Moving Home and Your Energy Supply
When you move to a new home, sorting out your energy supply should be high on your to-do list. Taking the right steps ensures you’re not overcharged, billed for someone else’s usage, or left without gas or electricity.
What to Do When You Move In
As soon as you move in, take meter readings for both gas and electricity. This protects you from being billed for energy used by the previous occupants. Contact the existing supplier at your new address to let them know you’ve moved in and provide these readings. If you’re unsure who supplies your energy, you can usually find this information on a recent bill left at the property or by contacting the relevant networks.
You don’t have to stay with the current supplier – once you’ve settled in, you’re free to switch to a different company if you find a better deal.
Setting Up Your Account
When you contact the supplier, confirm your move-in date and provide your personal details. Ask for details of the current tariff and whether you’re on a standard variable or fixed-rate plan. This helps avoid unexpected charges and ensures you’re not paying more than necessary.
If you had a prepayment meter in your old home, check if your new property uses one as well. If it does, make sure you’re given a new key or card, and clarify the current balance to avoid inheriting any debt from previous tenants.
Avoiding Billing Issues
It’s important to make sure the final bill for your old address is settled, using accurate meter readings taken on your move-out day. Similarly, keep a record of the readings you provide at your new home. This documentation can help resolve any disputes over charges or usage.
If you receive a bill addressed to the previous occupant, contact the supplier immediately to explain the situation. You are only responsible for energy used from the date you move in.
Your Rights and Protections
Energy suppliers must follow rules set by Ofgem, the UK’s energy regulator. You have the right to:
Receive accurate and timely bills based on actual meter readings.
Be informed about your tariff and any changes.
Switch suppliers without unnecessary delays or penalties (unless you’re tied to a fixed-term contract with exit fees).
If you encounter problems – such as being billed for someone else’s usage, or if your supply is disconnected without warning – contact the supplier first. If the issue isn’t resolved, you can escalate your complaint to the Energy Ombudsman.
For a step-by-step guide on what to do before, during, and after your move, including how to avoid common pitfalls, see moving home – dealing with your energy supply.
Taking these steps helps ensure a smooth transition and protects your rights as an energy consumer when moving home.
