Switching electricity supplier: how to do it safely

In short: Switching electricity supplier is simple, free and possible without interruption of supply. It often pays off if you are still on the expensive default supply or in an old contract.

In more detail: The new supplier handles the cancellation with the old one. Power continues to come over the same grid, only the bill comes from someone else.

In Depth

• Default supply: Those who never chose are with the local default supplier, usually the most expensive tariff. It can be cancelled at short notice.
• Comparison: Comparison portals show prices for your own consumption and postcode. Look at the total price in the first and the second year, not just the bonus. Check a supplier (reviews, payment method).
• Contract details: Term (short is more flexible), notice period, price guarantee, advance payment. Avoid prepayment and deposits. Green electricity: check the label (not every label means additional build-out).
• New-customer bonus: It makes the first year cheap, the price often rises in the second. Set a reminder to switch.
• Process: Have meter number and reading ready, sign up online. On the switch date document the reading (photo).
• Price increase: An increase gives a special right of termination. The notice comes with a deadline.
• Trouble: If the supplier does not pay or goes insolvent, the default supply steps in, you are not left without power.
• Standing charge and unit price: Understand how the total price is composed (electricity price).

See also: advance payment and back payment, notice period