How to switch energy supplier in the UK (2026 guide)

Why switching still matters in 2026

For most UK households, the quickest way to cut an energy bill is not a new boiler or a lifestyle overhaul — it is stopping an overpriced default tariff. When a fixed deal ends, many people roll onto a standard variable tariff (SVT) that costs more than a competitive fixed or tracker deal available the same week.

Brillia Energy exists to make that check simple. We are a free comparison service operated by Zynx Ltd trading as Brillia. We do not supply gas or electricity ourselves. When you switch, you contract with a licensed UK supplier regulated by Ofgem. That distinction matters for trust: we help you compare; the supplier handles your meter, billing and supply.

Switching should not interrupt your gas or electricity. The change is largely administrative. Industry processes typically complete a straightforward dual-fuel switch in around five working days, though timings can vary if there are meter issues, debt flags or incomplete details.

This guide walks through what to prepare, how to compare fairly, what to check before you click apply, and what happens after you choose a deal. For a shorter overview of our funnel, see how Brillia works. When you are ready, you can compare live deals with your postcode in under a minute.

What you need before you compare

You do not need a perfect spreadsheet of usage. An estimate is enough to start, and you can refine later. The more accurate your inputs, the more useful the estimated annual cost and savings figures will be.

• Your postcode — regional network charges mean deals vary by area.
• Current supplier name and, if you know it, your tariff name.
• How you pay: Monthly Direct Debit, prepayment, or pay on receipt.
• Fuel type: dual fuel, electricity only, or gas only.
• Annual usage in kWh if you have a bill; otherwise a typical-home estimate is fine.
• Whether you are in a fixed term and any exit fee that might apply.

If you are unsure about usage, many dual-fuel homes sit roughly in the low thousands of kWh for electricity and around the mid–high thousands for gas each year, but your bill is always better than a national average. Our FAQs cover common questions about data and switching.

Step-by-step: how to switch with Brillia

1. Start with your postcode. Enter it on the homepage or the compare flow. This filters tariffs that are available for your region.

2. Confirm supplier, tariff and payment method. Matching how you actually pay matters — the cheapest Direct Debit deal is not useful if you are on a prepayment meter.

3. Add usage and fuel type. Dual fuel is common, but you can compare electricity-only or gas-only if that matches your situation.

4. Review results by estimated annual cost. On the deals page, sort by cheapest (lowest estimated annual cost), biggest saving, top rated or green. Cards show estimated annual cost plus potential savings versus your current setup — estimates, not guarantees.

5. Open a deal and complete the short application. After View Deal you will see a short handoff, then a form to confirm details. The licensed supplier then progresses the switch.

6. Keep confirmations. Save emails from Brillia and the supplier. Note any cooling-off period on the supplier’s terms (often around 14 days).

Fixed, variable or tracker — pick with eyes open

Tariff type changes how much risk and flexibility you take. Fixed deals lock unit rates for a set period (often 12 months) and can include exit fees if you leave early. SVTs can move when the supplier updates prices. Trackers follow a published index or formula.

We explain the trade-offs in depth in Energy tariffs explained: fixed, variable and tracker. In short: if you want bill certainty for a year, start with competitive fixed deals that match your payment method. If you are near the end of a fixed term, compare before you roll onto an SVT.

Green electricity options are available on many deals. Use the green filter on results if renewable electricity is a priority, then read the deal details for what is included.

Exit fees, debt and other blockers

Exit fees on fixed contracts can wipe out a paper saving if you leave mid-term. Always weigh the remaining months of your current deal against the saving on a new one. Sometimes waiting until the fixed term ends is cheaper overall.

If you owe your current supplier, switching may still be possible, but debt rules can apply — especially on prepayment. Clear or discuss arrears if a switch is blocked. Comparing on Brillia does not run a credit check; some suppliers may check credit when you apply.

Tenants can usually switch if they are responsible for the bills — check your tenancy. The person named on the application should match who pays. If you are moving house, tell both suppliers your move date and compare using the new postcode once you have it.

What happens after you pick a deal

Your new supplier coordinates the switch. Supply should continue as normal. You may receive welcome packs, Direct Debit setup details, and a start date. Final bills from your old supplier usually follow once meter readings or smart data are settled.

If you change your mind during cooling-off, contact the new supplier promptly. For help choosing between deals or understanding a quote, use Contact — our UK team usually replies within one working day.

Want lower bills beyond the switch itself? Pair a better tariff with practical usage tips in How to save on energy bills without sacrificing comfort.

How Brillia makes money (and what that means for you)

Brillia Energy is free to use. If you switch, we may earn a commission from the supplier. That never changes the price you pay for the tariff shown. We do not sell your personal data. Details are used to find deals and, if you choose, to complete a switch application.

Browse more advice on our guides hub, or start from the homepage when you are ready to compare.

Frequently asked questions