Switching energy tariff or supplier
Comparing tariffs is a good way to check if you can save money by switching to a new supplier.
You will need:
- your postcode
- name of your current energy plan
- and how much you are spending on energy monthly, quarterly or yearly
You can find this information on your energy bill or online with your account.
Help with energy bills
If you need support with energy bills, there is some support available from government and local authorities.
Government help with energy bills
Contact Scope to arrange an appointment if you would like free phone or email support.
Contact Scope’s Disability Energy Support
Comparing energy tariffs
For example, you enter your details into Uswitch.
- It will show the deals available.
- You choose the deal that suits you.
- Uswitch will contact your old and new supplier.
- Your switch will complete within 5 days.
If you have a monthly direct debit, you could try Cheap Energy Club (MoneySavingExpert)
Once you have completed the comparison, you will get instructions on how to switch your tariff or supplier if you find a better deal.
Compare energy suppliers' customer service (Citizens Advice)
If you are in debt with your current supplier
You may still be able to switch supplier if you owe them money.
Switching energy supplier if you're in debt (Citizens Advice)
Get debt advice
You could get up to 60 days' respite from interest, fees and court action to reduce stress and give you time to deal with your debts.
Breathing Space, Debt Respite Scheme (StepChange)
Contact a debt adviser who will be able to give free advice. You could try:
- StepChange Debt Charity for free online debt advice
- Citizens Advice Web Chat with trained advisers
- Citizens Advice may have a debt specialist at your local office
- Debt Advice Foundation for practical advice on managing debt
Christians Against Poverty have caseworkers who will contact creditors on your behalf.
If your landlord is a housing association or local authority, tell them if you are struggling to pay your rent. Ask if they can offer a solution.
Ask your local authority (GOV.UK) if they have a welfare rights service that can take up your case.
Debt can be stressful, but there is help available.
Smart meters
Take readings before you switch.
Contact your supplier if your smart meter stops working or sending information.
Energy suppliers must maintain smart meters for 12 months after installing them. Some suppliers have agreed to provide extra support. See the list of suppliers and what they’ve agreed to do.
Contact Scope’s Disability Energy Support to arrange an appointment if you would like advice.
If you have a prepayment smart meter
If you switch to a new supplier, your credit will not usually be carried over from your old supplier. You would still need to top up.
Your old supplier will refund your credit after you switch.
If you have Economy 7
Your electrical energy supplier will be in touch to upgrade you to a smart meter before 30 June 2025.
Warm Home Discount
Warm Home Discount opens in October 2024. If you are eligible, you will receive £150 credit to your electricity account or prepayment meter.
Check if you are eligible for the Warm Home Discount (GOV.UK)
Check if your supplier is part of the Warm Home Discount scheme (GOV.UK)
Priority Services Register
If you have signed up to the Priority Services Register with your current supplier, you will need to do this again with your new supplier.
Warning Sign up for the Priority Services Register
If you are disabled or have children under 5, it’s free to sign up to the Priority Services Register to receive extra support from your energy or water company.
Send your request to your energy supplier (the company you pay your bills to) and your regional network companies including electricity, gas and water.
If your supplier does not let you switch
You should complain if your supplier tries to stop you from switching when you are entitled to.
Complain to your energy supplier (Citizens Advice)
You may need to write to your supplier and say why you have the right to switch.
Letter to switch energy supplier if you have a prepayment meter (Citizens Advice)
Contact Scope’s Disability Energy Support to arrange an appointment if you would like advice.
Last reviewed by Scope on: 26/09/2024
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