How to Switch Energy Supplier in the UK
A complete guide to switching your gas and electricity supplier. The process is entirely supplier-led, takes under five days, and your supply is never interrupted.
The Switching Process, Step by Step
UK energy switching is regulated by Ofgem and follows a standardised process. Your new supplier manages everything.
- Get a quote from your new supplier. Enter your postcode and estimated usage on the supplier's website. This takes about five minutes.
- Sign up. Provide your personal details, meter information, and preferred payment method. The supplier will start the switch process.
- 14-day cooling-off period. You can cancel the switch within 14 days of signing up without any penalty.
- Submit meter readings. Your new supplier will request readings a few days before the switch date to ensure accurate final and opening bills.
- Switch completes. Under the Energy Switch Guarantee, this happens within five working days. Your supply continues uninterrupted throughout.
Exit Fees by Supplier
If you are on a fixed-rate tariff, leaving early may trigger an exit fee. Standard variable tariffs (SVTs) have no exit fees.
| Supplier | Fixed Tariff Exit Fee | SVT Exit Fee |
|---|---|---|
| British Gas | Up to £75 per fuel | None |
| E.ON | £30–£60 per fuel | None |
| EDF | £50–£75 per fuel | None |
| OVO | £75 per fuel | None |
| Scottish Power | Varies by tariff | None |
| Octopus Energy | £150 (Octo 12 fixed) | None |
| Shell Energy | Varies by tariff | None |
| Utilita | None | None |
| So Energy | Varies by tariff | None |
Exit fees as published by suppliers, March 2026. Fixed tariffs allow penalty-free exit in the last 49 days of the contract.
Smart Meter Compatibility
Smart meters are one of the biggest practical concerns when switching. Here is what you need to know:
- SMETS2 meters (installed since ~2018) work with all suppliers and should retain full smart functionality when you switch.
- SMETS1 meters (older) may temporarily lose smart capability and revert to manual readings. Most are being enrolled into the DCC network, but this can take time. Check with your new supplier.
- Prepayment smart meters (common with Utilita) may need to be replaced or reconfigured if you switch to a credit-based supplier. Your new supplier will arrange this.
Prepayment vs Credit Billing
If you are with a prepayment-focused supplier like Utilita, moving to a credit-based supplier like Octopus or British Gas means a significant change in how you pay:
| Feature | Prepayment (e.g. Utilita) | Credit (e.g. Octopus) |
|---|---|---|
| Payment method | Top up in advance | Monthly direct debit |
| Standing charge | Often none | ~55p–63p/day |
| Unit rates | Often higher (~26.6p/kWh) | Often lower (~19–21p/kWh on fixed) |
| Emergency credit | £30 (Utilita) | N/A |
| Friendly hours | 2pm–10am (supply continues) | N/A |
| Hardship support | Up to £50 additional credit | £30m Octo Assist fund (Octopus) |
Provider-by-Provider Leaving Guides
For detailed instructions specific to your current supplier:
Head-to-Head Supplier Comparisons
Comparing two specific suppliers? These comparisons include tariff pricing, smart meter compatibility, and EV charging rates:
Let Lodo Handle the Switch
Lodo finds the best energy deal for your home, signs you up with the new supplier, and handles any issues during the transition. Free, no catch.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to switch energy supplier?
- Under the Energy Switch Guarantee, your switch must complete within five working days of your requested start date. Most suppliers complete it within three to five days. Your gas and electricity supply is never interrupted during a switch.
- Will my smart meter still work if I switch supplier?
- SMETS2 smart meters (installed since 2018) work with all suppliers. Older SMETS1 meters may temporarily lose smart functionality and revert to manual readings after a switch, though most are being enrolled into the national DCC network to fix this.
- Do I need to contact my old supplier to switch?
- No. Energy switching is supplier-led — your new supplier handles everything, including notifying your old supplier. You do not need to contact your old supplier to cancel.
- What happens to my Warm Home Discount if I switch?
- The Warm Home Discount does not automatically transfer when you switch suppliers. You will need to reapply with your new supplier after the switch completes. Not all suppliers participate in the scheme.
- Can I switch from prepayment to credit billing?
- Yes. If you currently pay for energy via a prepayment meter (common with Utilita and others), you can switch to a supplier offering standard credit billing. The new supplier may need to replace or reconfigure your meter.