Taking control of your energy bills should be at the top of any ‘To Do’ list when it comes to keeping more money in your pocket.
With savings of around €400 available by switching your electricity and gas supplier the amounts involved really add up. And when the choice is between higher energy bills or having more to spend on yourself and your family then the answer is pretty simple.
So, let’s take a look at how to compare and switch to a better energy deal…
Are there many suppliers to choose from?
The electricity and gas markets in Ireland are really competitive…there are more suppliers, offers and deals to choose from than ever before. And comparing, switching and saving money is easy, especially when you use Power to Switch
There are 12 electricity suppliers to choose from (remember ESB Networks doesn’t supply electricity).
The suppliers are BEenergy, Bord Gáis Energy, Community Power, Electric Ireland, Energia, Flogas, Glowpower, Iberdrola, Panda Power, Pinergy, PrePayPower and SSE Airtricity.
There are 8 gas suppliers to choose from. They are Bord Gáis Energy, Electric Ireland, Energia, Flogas, Iberdrola, Panda Power, PrePayPower and SSE Airtricity.
These suppliers also offer Dual Fuel deals (apart from Flogas who have recently entered the electricity market and have not released Dual Fuel tariffs as yet). With a wide range of tariffs, promotions and deals to choose from there should be a plan to suits your needs.
Aren’t energy suppliers all the same?
No, each energy supplier provides a choice of tariffs and offers (and often promotions).
They have a range of deals, billing methods and payment options which could save you money. Some companies offer an introductory bonus or cashback for switching to them, or a loyalty bonus for staying with them! Many suppliers offer a discount for the first year and there are tariffs which offer a fixed rate for the duration of the contract term – so again it’s about picking the deal that is best for you.
Is it easy to compare energy deals?
Yes, it’s easy especially if you use ‘Power to Switch’. To find a better deal enter a few details on how much you currently spend on electricity (or how much you use) – an old bill or statement can help. If you don’t have these details you can still compare deals for your home based on an average usage figure (4,200kWh).
Power to Switch will check all suppliers and tariffs to identify other available deals – as well as savings there is information on the energy supplier, any cashbacks or bonus offers and tariff terms & conditions.
What should I think about when comparing energy deals?
There are a few things. Firstly, how you want to pay can impact on the range of tariffs you can choose from. The main payment options will be Direct Debit, Pay as You Go, or cash/card or cheque.
Finding the cheapest electricity or gas deal will often be top of the list – but there are a few other things to think about…
- How you want to be billed – (online/email billing or postal bills)
- What type of plan you want – (discount tariff or fixed rate tariff)
- Is there a Fixed Term e.g. 1 or 2 years (remember to check if there is an early exit fee)
- Are there any other perks, cashbacks or promotions with the offer
(Usually the best deals are available to customers choosing Direct Debit Payment and Online Billing)
Is the switching process a hassle?
No, your new supplier will take care of the switching process – you don’t even have to tell your old supplier that you are leaving. There will be no interruption to your supply and no changes to your meter, wiring or connection. You also have ten working days to cancel the switch if you change your mind.
What do you need to switch?
To find a better energy deal and switch hassle free there are a few things you will need:
- Your MPRN or GPRN
The Meter Point Reference Number (MPRN) is an 11-digit number which identifies the electricity meter in your home. The Gas Point Reference Number (GPRN) is a 7-digit number which also identifies the gas meter in your home.
Your MPRN or GPRN will be printed on the front of your electricity or gas bill.
- Personal Details
When signing up to a new supplier they will need some personal details in terms of name, address, email and contact number. You can also inform your supplier if you need anyone else registered on the account or if you have any specific support needs.
- A Meter Reading
An up to date meter reading will help ensure that your new supplier can accurately estimate your usage and ensure your bills match across to your usage. It’s often a good idea to provide your supplier with regular meter reads to avoid bills being generated based on estimated readings.
- Bank Details
If you are signing up to a Direct Debit tariff your new supplier will need your bank details (normally IBAN and BIC) as well as your agreement to set up a Direct Debit mandate.
- Your Agreement
As part of the sign-up process you will be asked that you agree to the terms and conditions of the offer (so it’s important to read these). You will also need to confirm that you are aware that you can cancel the switch within 10 working days.
So, as you can see comparing energy deals is easy. And the savings really add up – why pay more on energy bills than you need to. Switching is hassle free and you don’t even have to tell your old supplier you are leaving.
So, check out what you could be saving with Power to Switch
