The Energy Switch Guarantee lets you move supplier in 21 days with minimal hassle. Here's what you need to know.
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The Energy Switch Guarantee
Energy UK is helping you to switch in just 21 days with the Energy Switch Guarantee.
The guarantee makes it clear for households how to switch energy supplier to another in a simple and hassle-free way.
Before, the actual switch itself could take four- six weeks but now it won't take any more than 21 days. It promises that the process will be much smoother too.
How it works
In much the same way that it used to. Just compare the best providers for you based on your postcode and usage (why not try the loveMONEY energy centre?) If you’re not sure how much energy you use, check your latest bill or give your current energy company a ring.
You don’t have to do anything from there. Once the deal has been agreed, your new provider will set up the switch under the terms of the Energy Switch Guarantee.
Who does the rest of the legwork?
The whole process will be carried out by the new provider, including contacting your previous provider to tell them you’re leaving. They'll then work together to get your account switched over smoothly.
Your new provider won’t even need to visit your home to complete the switch unless you agree to it (or you need something like a meter fitted).
The new supplier will send you details of your new energy deal for you to check and you’ll have 14 days to change your mind after it's been processed. If you cancel, you’ll be kept with your current provider, but you’ll continue with your current right up until the day of your switch anyway.
Your old and new provider will even work together to make sure that you’re not charged twice for the same energy use.
Anything that goes wrong during the switch is the responsibility of your new supplier and it will put the matter right. Your old provider will send you a final bill no later than six weeks after the switch and any credit from your previous energy account will be refunded within 14 days of your final bill.
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Which providers are involved?
Around 70% of the energy market have signed up so far, with more companies expected to follow.
- British Gas
- EDF Energy
- E.ON
- First Utility
- Flow Energy
- npower
- Octopus Energy
- Sainsbury’s Energy
- So Energy
As you can see, not many of the small firms are represented but the Energy Switch Guarantee is aiming for over 90% market coverage by October 2016.
I’m having some issues with the switch
If you have any questions about the switching process or want to report an issue, you should contact your new energy provider first.
Should you be unhappy with the way your query has been handled by your new provider, you can ask the Energy Ombudsman to investigate.
Any other questions about the Energy Switch Guarantee can be sent directly through its website.
Start your switch today by visiting loveMONEY's energy comparison centre