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FAQs

Get answers to your switching supplier FAQs.

Are there exit fees when switching?

If you’re on a variable tariff which has no fixed end date then you shouldn’t have to pay any exit fees if you switch suppliers.

If you’re on a fixed tariff then you’ll need to check the terms of your current contract, as you may be subject to exit fees if you switch before the end of your fixed term. The good news is, if you’re nearing the end of your contract you do have some flexibility to switch early without a penalty.

If you’re within 49 days of your fixed tariff ending you cannot be charged exit fees even if they apply to your contract.

Is it easy to switch supplier?

We’ve made it as easy as possible to switch your energy supplier. Simply follow our step by step process and we’ll send you reminders of what we need from you along the way.

Better yet, if you’re switching to us the whole process can be completed online – from requesting a switch, to getting a quote, to sending us your opening meter reading. To get started, all you need is your latest energy bill and an idea of how much energy you typically use.

Why can't I switch suppliers?

There are a number of reasons why your switch to a new supplier might be blocked. It’s best to speak to your current energy supplier to find out the reason why and what you can do about it.

You can find your current suppliers contact details online or on your energy bill.

 

Can I switch energy supplier at any time?

If you’re not happy with your energy supplier or you would like to change your tariff, you can choose to switch at any time. However, you may be subject to exit fees. Always check your current contract before switching to avoid unwanted surprises.

Could I save by switching business energy?

All businesses are different but you could see if you could save money by comparing unit rates and standing charges as well as monthly and annual cost projections. It’s difficult to say how much your business could save, as quotes are dependent on Estimated Annual Consumption (EAC) and the size of the business. But we review our price monthly to ensure we stay competitive.

If I switch my small business energy online, what information do I need?

We normally just need businesses to enter very basic information such as:

  1. Business address
  2. Business Name
  3. How much energy you use (kWh or £)
  4. Type of business
  5. Company registration number (if LTD)
  6. Owners details

In some cases if we’re unable to retrieve your metering details we will ask to

Confirm information which can be found on a bill or our Live Chat team can help you answer:

How do I compare small business energy suppliers?

The best way to compare business energy rates/prices would be the compare the unit rates and standing charges with your current tariff or renewal offer. Or you can compare the projected costs (£). Be aware the projected costs are all based on how much energy your business uses based on what you’ve stated. So you’ll only be charged for the energy you’ve used and by submitting meter reads we can understand your usage.

Do your business energy quotes include VAT ?

Our online quote doesn’t include VAT , however, if you choose to buy we’ll apply VAT before completing the purchase. If you’d like to know at quote results stage, our live chat advisers are able to calculate this for you if needed.

What should I do if I'm moving business premises?

Moving into premises not supplied by us?

We have range of business energy tariffs to suit your business needs. All you need to do is agree to a new contract with us by getting a quote and we’ll sort out the rest. If your current premises is already supplied by us you can simply take us with you.

Just give us a few details and we’ll make sure your business energy is moved across.

My old supplier has offered me a better deal to stay with them – should I take it?

It’s common for your old supplier to offer a better deal to try and stop you from switching. Before accepting, ensure it’s as good as they say by asking the following questions:

1. What are the unit rates and standing charge?

Check your old supplier’s unit rates and standing charge are cheaper than ours, as some suppliers may reduce your monthly Direct Debit without reducing the actual price of your energy. This could result in you building up a substantial debit with them.

Your old supplier might also divert your attention from unit rates to the standing charge, especially if theirs is cheaper than ours. But please bear in mind that standing charges have a much smaller impact on your energy cost than the unit rates.

2. Can I have full tariff information, including the annual usage estimate?

Not only will this show unit rates and standing charge, but you’ll be able to see what annual usage estimate they’ve calculated savings on.

We use the estimate you gave us, or Ofgem’s Low, Medium, High values (as indicated by you). Your old supplier’s usage estimate might be different, meaning your payments might not be enough for your usage.

3. What tariff will I default to once the cheap deal ends?

Many suppliers will move you to an expensive tariff once a cheap one ends, in the hope you’ll forget to switch. We covered this in our blog and on the BBC’s Money Box program. This might be alright if you’re a regular switcher, but if you’re after long-term value you’d be better sticking with us.

How long will my switch take?

Switching To Us

We’ve worked hard to make the switching process as quick and painless as it can be. We will usually switch you over within 5 days.

When does Modern Power send my statements?

If you have a smart meter, you’ll receive a statement every month. If you’d like to change the date you receive your statements, get in touch to let us know.

If you have a non-smart meter, we do things a little differently. We won’t send you a statement every month. Instead, you can send us your readings and we’ll send you a statement within a few days. If you don’t send us readings, we’ll send you an estimated bill every three months.

We do it this way because we want to avoid estimating your energy usage where possible. Real meter readings make your statements a lot more accurate. There’s more information about why we don’t send monthly statements on our blog.