With deregulation the electricity supply market has opened up to competition. As a result you can now choose who supplies your electricity, whereas previously you could only be supplied by your local electricity company. In practical terms this has lead to both lower prices and higher service levels. All suppliers are regulated by Ofgem (Office of Gas and Electricity Markets). Use the Electricity Calculator to find the cheapest supplier. You can then see the three cheapest tariffs in your area based upon: each supplier's tariffs and standing charges, your consumption and your preferred payment method. The best deal is not necessarily determined solely on price so it is wise to look at service and contract terms before changing suppliers.
Your interests are protected by Ofgem, the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets, an independent body set up by the Government. All licensed electricity suppliers have been approved by Ofgem and so risks involved in changing suppliers are minimal.

Things to consider when changing your electricity supplier
The type and standard of service varies according to the supplier. For example, how often meters are read and bills sent. It is also possible to receive services such as giving additional help on energy saving. Standards of service may differ, but the electricity you receive into your home will be exactly the same whoever supplies you. The electricity will get to you in the same way as it does now and the existing power lines to your home will be used by the new supplier. You will also continue to use the same meter. The only difference will be in who sells you electricity and sends you the bill. There is no need to contact your existing supplier if you decide to change either - your new supplier will read your meter and arrange the changeover.

Try the Electricity Calculator to find the best available electricity rates. Compare the prices, contract terms and any other services offered by different suppliers. If you wish to change supplier but make sure before you can either sign up online, or request a contract pack with the supplier in question. Your meter will be read by your new supplier and this reading sent to your old supplier, who will produce your final bill. Always make sure you read and understand the terms of your new contract. All electricity suppliers offer either a fixed term or rolling contract. Fixed term contracts are set for a fixed period - usually of one or two years. If you end this type of contract early you may have to pay a cancellation fee, unless you are moving house or the supplier increases its prices, which it can do with 10 days notice to you. Currently you are either on a tariff or a contract: if you change supplier you will have to sign a contract. A rolling or evergreen contract will continue until you end it. The price charged for electricity can go up or down in accordance with the terms of the contract. You can end this type of contract at any time with 28 days' notice and there is normally no fee. However a rolling contract may contain periods during which the supplier has agreed not to increase its charges. If you end the contract during one of these periods you may have to pay a cancellation fee.

If you are unhappy about the service provided by your supplier, you should contact them in the first instance. If you are not happy with their response, Ofgem may be able to help. Whether the problem is to do with electricity bills, meters or the supply of electricity, Ofgem will look into it on your behalf.
In the event of an emergency you can call your new supplier who will give you a 24-hour emergency number. Phone if you think there is a supply or safety problem.

Ofgem, the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets, was formed in June 1999 by combining the functions of the former Office of Gas Supply (Ofgas) and the Office of Electricity Regulation (Offer). Ofgem is an independent body set up by the Government to protect the interests of all gas and electricity customers and to regulate the gas and electricity industry throughout Great Britain.