19 December 2025
Can I Switch Energy Suppliers If I Have a Smart Meter?
Yes, you can switch energy suppliers with a smart meter in the UK. Learn SMETS1 vs SMETS2, what can go wrong, and the checks to make before you switch.
Taupia
Quick answer
Yes, you can switch energy suppliers with a smart meter in the UK. SMETS2 meters usually keep smart functionality after switching. Some SMETS1 meters may temporarily lose smart mode, but they still record usage accurately and you may need to submit manual readings for a short period. Ofgem says household switches should complete in up to 5 working days.
📢 27 May 2026: In today's price cap announcement, Ofgem specifically highlighted that smart meter customers can access half-price or cheap electricity at weekends — an additional saving on top of any switching benefits. The energy price cap is rising 13% from 1 July. If you have a smart meter, now is a good time to explore your options. →
Quick answer: Yes, most households can switch energy supplier with a smart meter. Before the July price cap change, check your current tariff, whether your meter still works in smart mode, and whether a fixed deal beats waiting.
Smart meter? Check your tariff before the July cap
Can you switch with a smart meter?
Yes. In most cases, switching is an account transfer, not a meter replacement.
- SMETS2 (second-generation): usually keeps smart functionality after switching.
- SMETS1 (first-generation): can still switch, but smart features may pause temporarily with some suppliers.
Even if smart features pause, your meter still records usage. You may need to submit manual readings for a short period.
What to check before you switch
- Check whether your meter is still operating in smart mode.
- Confirm your tariff type and contract end date.
- Check exit fees before choosing a fixed deal.
- Compare unit rates and standing charges using your actual bill.
- Keep opening and closing meter readings for billing accuracy.
What happens during the switch
- Your gas and electricity supply stays on.
- Ofgem says household switches should complete in up to 5 working days.
- New domestic contracts usually include a 14-day cooling-off period.
Edge cases that matter
If you have debt
Switching can be restricted if debt is overdue, though some prepayment cases can still switch within specific limits.
If you rent
If you pay the supplier directly, you can usually choose and switch tariff. If the landlord pays, they usually control supplier choice.
Related guides
- Energy Price Cap hub
- How much can I save by switching energy suppliers?
- Price rise letter explained
- Bill shock triage
Official guidance
Key takeaways
- You can switch energy supplier with either SMETS1 or SMETS2 smart meters.
- SMETS2 usually stays fully smart after switching; some SMETS1 meters may temporarily need manual readings.
- Ofgem says household switches should complete in up to 5 working days and suppliers must compensate for certain delays.
- Check meter type, smart mode status, tariff end date, and exit fees before confirming a switch.
Frequently asked questions
Can I switch energy supplier with a smart meter without losing power?
Yes. Switching supplier is an account transfer, so your gas and electricity supply should stay on during the switch.
What if I have a SMETS1 smart meter?
You can still switch. Some SMETS1 meters may temporarily lose smart mode with a new supplier, but they still record usage accurately and you might need to submit manual readings for a period.
How long does an energy switch take in the UK?
Ofgem says household switches should complete in up to 5 working days, and domestic contracts usually include a 14-day cooling-off period.
Can debt stop me switching supplier?
It can. Ofgem says you usually cannot switch if you have been in debt to your supplier for more than 28 days, except some prepayment customers can switch with debt up to 500 pounds per fuel.
How can I check if my smart meter should work in smart mode after switching?
Use the Citizens Advice Smart Meter Checker and confirm with your new supplier before you switch.