Switching electricity supplier is one of the easiest ways to cut your energy bills. The process takes about 10 minutes online, there's no interruption to your power, and you don't need a new meter. Here's exactly how to do it.
Why Switch Electricity Supplier?
The average Irish household can save €300-€500 per year by switching from a standard rate to the cheapest available deal. Even if you switched last year, your introductory discount has likely expired, meaning you're probably paying more than you need to.
Electricity suppliers offer their best prices to new customers. Loyalty rarely pays—staying with the same supplier typically means paying 20-40% more than someone who switches regularly.
Before You Start: What You'll Need
Gather these details before comparing suppliers:
Essential:
- Your MPRN (Meter Point Reference Number)—found on your bill
- Current supplier name
- Recent electricity usage (in kWh) or a recent bill
Helpful:
- Smart meter data file (if you have a smart meter)
- Knowledge of your current tariff type (24-hour, day/night, smart)
Step 1: Find Your Current Usage
Your annual electricity usage determines which supplier is cheapest for you. Different suppliers have different rate structures, so the cheapest option for a low user might not be cheapest for a high user.
Where to Find Your Usage
On your bill: Look for "Units" or "kWh" used during the billing period. Multiply by the number of billing periods per year (typically 6 for bi-monthly billing).
ESB Networks account: If you have a smart meter, log in to view your exact annual consumption.
Estimate if needed: The average Irish household uses approximately 4,200 kWh per year. Use this figure if you can't find your actual usage.
Step 2: compare suppliers
Use a price comparison site to see all available deals. Enter your:
- MPRN or address
- Meter type (standard, day/night, smart)
- Annual usage or upload your smart meter data
The comparison will show your Estimated Annual Bill (EAB) with each supplier, accounting for unit rates, standing charges, and any discounts.
What to Compare
Price: The EAB is your total annual cost including all charges and discounts
Contract length: Most deals are 12 months with early exit fees
Discount type: Is it a percentage off, or a fixed cashback? Does it apply to the full year?
Tariff structure: 24-hour flat rate, day/night, or smart time-of-use
Price certainty: Some deals are fixed for the contract period; others are variable
Red Flags to Watch
- Very high exit fees (€50 is standard; more is excessive)
- Short discount periods (e.g., 6 months discount on a 12-month contract)
- Small print excluding standing charges from discounts
- Annual price adjustment clauses (your price increases each April)
Step 3: Check Your Current Contract
Before switching, verify:
Are you in contract? Most electricity contracts are 12 months. If you're within your contract period, you may face an exit fee.
What's the exit fee? Typically €50, but some suppliers charge more. Calculate whether the savings from switching outweigh the fee.
When does your contract end? If it's soon, you might wait. Otherwise, paying the exit fee often makes sense if savings exceed that amount.
You can usually find contract details:
- On your original welcome letter
- In your online account
- By calling your supplier
Step 4: Apply to Your New Supplier
Once you've chosen a new supplier:
- Click through from the comparison site or go directly to the supplier's website
- Enter your details: Name, address, MPRN, contact information
- Choose your tariff: Confirm the plan you want
- Set up payment: Direct debit is usually required for the best rates
- Submit: Your new supplier handles everything from here
What Happens Next
Your new supplier will:
- Contact your old supplier to arrange the switch
- Schedule a switch date (typically 21 days from application)
- Send you confirmation and welcome information
- Begin billing you after the switch date
You don't need to contact your old supplier. The new supplier manages the entire process.
Step 5: Confirm the Switch
Within a few days, you'll receive:
From your new supplier:
- Confirmation of your application
- Details of your tariff and contract
- Expected switch date
- Welcome pack with account details
From your old supplier:
- Notification that you're leaving
- Final meter reading request (or confirmation if you have a smart meter)
- Final bill (sent after the switch completes)
Your Cooling-Off Period
You have 14 days to cancel your switch without penalty. If you change your mind, contact your new supplier within this period.
After the cooling-off period, normal contract terms apply, including any exit fees.
Timeline: How Long Does Switching Take?
| Stage | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Application submitted | Day 1 |
| Confirmation received | 1-3 days |
| Cooling-off period | 14 days |
| Switch completes | Approximately 21 days |
| First bill from new supplier | 1-2 months after switch |
The entire process typically takes 3-4 weeks from application to completion.
Common Questions About Switching
Will my electricity be cut off?
No. Your electricity supply is completely uninterrupted during the switch. You don't get a new meter, and your connection to the grid remains exactly the same. Only the billing relationship changes.
Do I need to be home?
No. Unless you need a meter reading taken manually, there's nothing physical happening at your property.
What if I have a smart meter?
The process is identical. Your smart meter continues working, automatically sending readings to whoever your supplier is. Smart meter data transfers to your new supplier.
Can I switch if I'm renting?
Yes. The electricity account is in your name, so you can switch suppliers freely. You don't need permission from your landlord.
What about prepay meters?
You can switch prepay suppliers, though options are more limited. Some suppliers also allow you to move from prepay to bill-pay, though this may require a credit check.
What if I have an outstanding balance?
Your old supplier will send a final bill that you'll need to pay. An outstanding balance doesn't prevent you from switching, but you'll still owe the money.
Can I switch back to my old supplier?
Yes, but typically not immediately as a "new customer." Most suppliers require you to have been away for 12 months before you qualify for new customer deals again.
Tips for Maximising Savings
Switch every 12 months: Set a calendar reminder for when your contract ends. New customer deals are always better than loyalty.
Consider your usage pattern: If you use a lot of electricity at night (EV charging, storage heaters), look at day/night or smart tariffs.
Don't just chase the lowest unit rate: Standing charges and discount structures matter. Compare total annual cost.
Read the terms: Understand what happens after the promotional period. Some suppliers have aggressive standard rates.
Download your smart meter data: If you have a smart meter, upload your actual usage data for the most accurate comparison.
What If Something Goes Wrong?
Switching problems are rare, but if you experience issues:
- Contact your new supplier first—they're responsible for managing the switch
- Keep records of all confirmations and correspondence
- Escalate to the supplier's complaints team if not resolved
- Contact the CRU (Commission for Regulation of Utilities) if you can't resolve it with the supplier
The CRU oversees the electricity market and can intervene in disputes.
Summary
Switching electricity supplier in Ireland is straightforward:
- Find your current usage
- Compare suppliers using a comparison site
- Check your contract for exit fees
- Apply online to your chosen new supplier
- Let them handle the rest
The whole process takes about 21 days, and your electricity is never interrupted. With potential savings of €300-€500 per year, switching is one of the most effective ways to reduce your household bills.
Ready to switch? Compare electricity prices now.
Last updated: January 2026