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.
Applies from Applies to: UK households with a smart meter who want to switch supplier; First-time bill owners and renters responsible for their own energy bills; SMETS1 and SMETS2 customers comparing energy tariffs
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.
Updated 23 September 2026: A smart meter does not lock you to one supplier. The October price cap has been confirmed; compare a new deal with your own tariff and usage using the current price-cap guide.
Quick answer: Yes. You can switch with a SMETS1 or SMETS2 meter. Check whether it will continue sending automatic readings after the switch, then compare total annual costs and any exit fee before you decide.
Check whether switching is worth it for your tariff
Can you switch energy supplier 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 a meter not yet connected to the national network may pause automatic readings with a new supplier. Ask the supplier to check its status.
Even if smart features pause, your meter still records usage. You may need to submit manual readings for a short period.
Will a SMETS1 or SMETS2 meter keep working after a switch?
The meter itself continues to record electricity or gas usage. A SMETS2 meter is designed to keep its smart connection across suppliers. A SMETS1 meter can do the same once connected to the national smart meter network; otherwise you may need to send manual readings while smart functions are restored. Check your meter's status with your current supplier and ask the new supplier whether it can collect readings remotely.
If smart readings stop after a switch, report it to your new supplier. Our guide to smart meters that stop sending readings explains what the supplier must do and when £40 compensation applies.
What should you check before switching?
- Check whether your meter is operating in smart mode and whether the new supplier can receive its readings.
- 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.
What could stop or delay a switch?
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
- Should I switch energy supplier? What you could save
- Price rise letter explained
- Bill shock triage
- Smart meter not sending readings? Compensation rules
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.