Finance Editor, Kael Tripton Ltd - LBS MBA - Verified against FCA Handbook: 14 June 2026
Quick answer
You can switch energy supplier at any time under Ofgem rules. Standard variable tariff switches take 5 working days (Energy Switch Guarantee). No exit fees on default tariffs. Fixed tariff exit fees are typically PS25-PS100 per fuel. Credit balances must be refunded within 10 working days.
How to Switch Energy Supplier Under Ofgem Rules
Direct answer
What are my rights when switching energy supplier?
Under Ofgem rules you can switch at any time. Standard variable tariff switches complete in 5 working days. No exit fee on default tariffs. Fixed tariff exit fees are typically PS25-PS100 per fuel. Credit balances refunded within 10 working days of the final bill.
Use a comparison site
Enter your current usage and postcode. Compare unit rates, standing charges and exit fees.
Check exit fees on your current tariff
Your bill or online account shows exit fees. Factor this into the decision.
Initiate the switch with the new supplier
The new supplier manages the process. Provide a meter read on the switch date.
Monitor the final bill from your old supplier
Issued within 6 weeks. Check accuracy and the credit balance refund.
If the switch is delayed -- complain
Complain under the Energy Switch Guarantee. If unresolved in 8 weeks, escalate to Energy Ombudsman.
| Scenario | Exit fee? | Timeline | Problem route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard variable tariff | No | 5 working days | Energy Ombudsman |
| Fixed tariff within contract | PS25-PS100/fuel | 5 working days | Energy Ombudsman |
| Fixed tariff at end of deal | No | 5 working days | Energy Ombudsman |
| Erroneous transfer | No -- must be reversed | 21 days for resolution | Both suppliers plus Ombudsman |
Energy Switching and the Supplier of Last Resort: What Happens to Your Switch
If your new energy supplier fails between when you initiate a switch and when it completes, Ofgem activates the Supplier of Last Resort process for the failing supplier's customers. If you were already in the process of switching away from the failed supplier, Ofgem's guidance is that the switch should complete to your chosen new supplier as originally planned, subject to the new supplier confirming the switch. If your chosen new supplier also fails, the process becomes more complex and you may be assigned to a SoLR supplier. Contact Ofgem directly (ofgem.gov.uk/contact-us) if your switch is affected by a supplier failure to understand your specific position.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I switch energy supplier under Ofgem rules?
Under Ofgem's switching rules, domestic customers can switch at any time. The process typically takes 5 working days (Energy Switch Guarantee). There is no exit fee for switching off a standard variable tariff. For fixed tariffs, an early exit fee of PS25-PS100 per fuel may apply.
What is the Energy Switch Guarantee?
The Energy Switch Guarantee commits participating suppliers to completing a switch within 5 working days and refunding any credit balance within 10 working days. Most major UK suppliers participate. Breaches can be complained to the Energy Ombudsman.
What happens to my direct debit when I switch?
The new supplier takes over the direct debit. The old supplier should refund any credit balance within 10 working days of the final bill. Do not cancel the old direct debit until you have received the final bill and confirmed the credit balance refund.
What is an erroneous transfer?
An erroneous transfer occurs when the wrong meter or property is switched. Under Ofgem rules, suppliers must resolve this within specific timeframes. If you did not initiate the switch, your original supplier must be reinstated within 21 working days.
Can I be charged an exit fee if I switch to escape a poor supplier?
Yes -- if on a fixed tariff with exit fees. However, if the supplier has materially breached its obligations, you may be able to argue the breach entitles you to leave without paying the exit fee. The Energy Ombudsman can adjudicate on whether an exit fee is enforceable given the supplier's conduct.
Primary sources
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