Understanding How to Switch Electricity Providers in Northern Ireland

Households throughout Northern Ireland are being advised to compare options for their electricity provider. The Utility Regulator is advocating for increased consumer engagement with the market to reduce their utility expenses. Six electricity suppliers currently operate in Northern Ireland, collectively offering 52 distinct tariffs. Last year, 121,000 consumers changed electricity providers, which represents a minor segment of the total market. This figure marks the highest number of switches recorded in seven years. However, Electric Ireland is in the process of withdrawing from the domestic market. The Dublin-based company will continue to supply business customers in Northern Ireland. Power NI, the largest supplier in Northern Ireland, is set to increase its prices from 1 December, which is estimated to add approximately £38 annually to a typical household’s bill. Electricity prices remain around 70% to 80% higher than they were three years ago. Colin Broomfield, director of markets at the Utility Regulator, informed BBC News NI that most consumers still do not interact with their suppliers or switch. He stated, “The key message we want to get across is for consumers to actively engage with the market.” He further advised, “Make sure that you look around, use tools to compare prices, and that will help inform your decision and make sure you are on the best tariff available.“ He emphasized, “It is simple to engage with the market.” He concluded that “The process of switching is straightforward and the money you could save can be significant, saving you potentially hundreds of pounds.” The Consumer Council in Northern Ireland has also observed an increase in traffic to its switching tool. Raymond Gormley, head of energy policy at the Northern Ireland Consumer Council, conveyed to BBC News NI that the process is not complicated. He remarked, “Most people are probably paying more than they should be,” adding, “You don’t have to switch suppliers; you can change tariffs. Your existing supplier will want to keep you and can offer you a discount.“ Gormley stressed, “The little time it takes to switch, it is worth it. Consumers should not be complacent about their tariff as there is money to be saved.” He advised, “Don’t accept being on a standard tariff, as every pound counts at the moment.” It is important to compare options, utilizing information from each supplier or comparison tools. Any projected saving serves as an estimate or guide, given that actual usage can fluctuate monthly. Different switching tools may also provide varied information on potential savings, depending on whether they incorporate planned price increases. You can retain your current supplier while transitioning to an alternative, more economical tariff. Your tariff refers to the amount of money you pay per unit of electricity used, with suppliers offering various tariffs. To initiate a switch, you must be the account holder. Your most recent energy bill will include the required details, such as the Meter Point Reference Number (MPRN), which is an 11-digit number. It will also indicate your current tariff, your energy consumption over a specific period, or your total expenditure on bills. A meter reading is often required as part of the switching process. If you plan to pay via direct debit (DD), you will need to provide your bank details. The new supplier will facilitate the switch on your behalf, and you do not have to inform your current provider of your departure. A ‘cooling off’ period of 10 working days is provided if you change your mind. There will be no disruption to your supply, and switching is available to all households, including keypad customers (PAYG). However, if you are in an existing contract with a supplier, you may have to pay an exit fee, and if you owe your current supplier money, you may not be able to move to a new electricity provider. Currently, Northern Ireland has six energy suppliers. Electric Ireland is in the process of exiting the domestic market. Power NI is the only electricity supplier in Northern Ireland that is regulated, meaning its prices are directly controlled by the Utility Regulator. Based on average consumption, the current disparity between the most expensive and cheapest available tariffs exceeds £400 annually. Electricity in Northern Ireland is measured in kilowatt hours (kWh). A kWh is a unit of energy that quantifies electricity usage over a period of time. The price of electricity varies by supplier and tariff, with each supplier offering a range of tariffs. Prices fluctuate due to a number of factors, such as international energy prices and demand. Depending on your tariff, there can be a different rate for day and night (‘peak’ and ‘off-peak’). Other tariffs will have a set price throughout the day.