How to Switch from OVO to Octopus Energy

If you are thinking about switching your energy supply from OVO Energy to Octopus Energy, it is important to ensure your smart meter is compatible and your data transfers smoothly. This guide explains exactly what to check, how the process works, and what to watch out for with these two providers.

Before you switch

First, check your OVO Energy contract for your tariff end date. If you are on a fixed-rate deal, OVO may charge an exit fee of up to £75 per fuel if you switch before your contract ends. Variable tariffs usually do not have exit fees. You will not lose your email address or any bundled digital services, as OVO does not provide these with energy plans. However, check if you are receiving the Warm Home Discount or other credits, as you may need to reapply with Octopus Energy.

How to switch, step by step

Get a quote and sign up with Octopus Energy. Visit the Octopus Energy website and enter your postcode and usage details. The sign-up process takes about five minutes.
Cooling-off period. After signing up, you have a 14-day cooling-off period where you can cancel the switch without penalty.
Octopus notifies OVO Energy. Octopus Energy will contact OVO on your behalf to start the switch. You do not need to inform OVO yourself.
Submit your meter readings. Octopus will ask for your latest meter readings (including smart meter readings if you have one) a few days before the switch date to ensure accurate billing.
Switch completes. Your switch is typically completed within five working days after the cooling-off period. Your energy supply will not be interrupted at any point.
Final bill from OVO. OVO will send you a final bill based on your closing meter readings. Pay any outstanding balance or claim any credit due.
Smart meter compatibility check. If your smart meter is not compatible with Octopus, they will arrange a free upgrade to a SMETS2 meter if needed. Most modern meters are supported.

What to watch out for

Exit fees on fixed tariffs: OVO Energy may charge up to £75 per fuel if you leave before your contract ends. Check your tariff details before switching.
Smart meter compatibility: If you have a first-generation (SMETS1) smart meter, it may lose smart functionality temporarily after switching. Octopus can upgrade it to SMETS2 if needed.
Warm Home Discount: If you receive this with OVO, you will need to reapply with Octopus Energy, as eligibility and application processes may differ.

Comparison of Smart Meter Compatibility and Features: OVO Energy vs. Octopus Energy

Comparison of Smart Meter Compatibility and Features: OVO Energy vs. Octopus Energy
Feature	OVO Energy	Octopus Energy
Smart Meter Compatibility	SMETS2 meters only	SMETS2 meters only
In-Home Display (IHD)	Provided with installation	Provided with installation
Automatic Meter Readings	Enabled for SMETS2 meters	Enabled for SMETS2 meters
Upgrade of SMETS1 Meters	Upgraded to SMETS2 by DCC	Upgraded to SMETS2 by DCC
Communication Hub Replacement	Not specified	Replacing 2G/3G hubs with 4G hubs

Sources: OVO Energy, Octopus Energy, and industry reviews. See full list below.

Switch with Lodo

Want to make switching from OVO to Octopus Energy as easy as possible? Lodo is the simplest way to do it.

With Lodo, we will sign you up with Octopus Energy and handle the supplier switch. If anything goes wrong, we resolve it with the providers directly. Free, no catch. Switch with Lodo for free

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to leave OVO Energy?

If you're on a fixed-rate plan with OVO Energy, you may incur an early exit fee of £30 per fuel if you switch before the fixed term ends. Variable plans, such as Simpler Energy, do not have exit fees. It's advisable to check your specific contract for details.

How long does the switch to Octopus Energy take?

Octopus Energy typically completes the switching process within 3 working days of signing up. However, the entire process, including final meter readings and billing, may take up to 21 days.

Will I lose my phone number, email address, or smart meter data when switching?

Switching your energy supplier does not affect your phone number or email address. Your smart meter data remains intact, as the switch pertains only to your energy supply and billing.

Can I switch to Octopus Energy if I am still under contract with OVO Energy?

Yes, you can switch to Octopus Energy even if you're under contract with OVO Energy. However, if you're on a fixed-rate plan, you may be subject to early exit fees from OVO Energy.

Do I need to contact OVO Energy, or does Octopus Energy handle it?

Octopus Energy manages the entire switching process, including notifying OVO Energy of your switch. You do not need to contact OVO Energy directly.

What happens if something goes wrong during the switch?

If issues arise during the switch, Octopus Energy will inform you and work to resolve them. In rare cases, if your previous supplier objects to the switch, Octopus Energy may require your assistance to resolve the issue.

Is there any downtime during the switch to Octopus Energy?

No, there is no downtime during the switch. Your energy supply will remain uninterrupted throughout the process.

Are there any specific considerations when switching from OVO Energy to Octopus Energy?

Ensure you check your OVO Energy contract for any applicable exit fees if you're on a fixed-rate plan. Additionally, provide accurate meter readings to both suppliers to ensure accurate billing.