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Electricity & gas · the UK
Checked 2026-09-27

🏚️ My energy supplier went bust in the UK. What happens now?

The short answer

A supplier going bust does not usually mean your power goes off straight away. See below what happens in the UK, then choose a new contract.

📜 The rules in the UK

If your supplier goes bust

If your supplier goes out of business you do not need to do anything: Ofgem moves you automatically to a new supplier and your supply is not interrupted. Afterwards you can switch as normal.

Official source: ofgem.gov.uk · Checked 2026-09-27

🪜 Step by step

  1. Read your meter todayTake a dated photo. It is the basis for the failed supplier’s final bill.
  2. Wait for the letterYou will be told who supplies you now and at what price.
  3. Choose a new contractTemporary supply is often more expensive. Compare offers and switch when you can.
  4. Claim your creditIf you paid in advance or have credit, file a claim with the administrator or ask how credit is handled.

📇 Who to contact

Ofgem (Office of Gas and Electricity Markets)Supervises energy companies and explains your rightsFor information, and to report a company that breaks the rules🔗 www.ofgem.gov.uk
Utility Regulator (Northern Ireland)Supervises energy companies and explains your rightsFor information, and to report a company that breaks the rules🔗 www.uregni.gov.uk
Energy OmbudsmanSettles disputes with energy companiesWhen the company has not solved your complaint📞 0330 440 1624🔗 www.energyombudsman.org
Citizens Advice (Great Britain) / Consumer Council for Northern IrelandIndependent advice for consumersFor advice, template letters and a second opinion🔗 www.citizensadvice.org.uk

❓ Questions

Is the temporary price fair?

It is often higher than a normal contract, which is why switching soon usually pays off.

What happens to my credit?

That depends on the country and the insolvency. Keep your last bill and a meter photo as proof.

Can I choose another supplier straight away?

Usually yes. The rules for the UK are on this page.

📎 Sources

Checked: 2026-09-27

🧭 Is this still correct?

We check this information carefully, but phone numbers, websites and rules change — and sometimes we get something wrong. Spotted a mistake or a change? Let us know below.

🔗 Also useful

🔄Switching supplier→📈Price increase→🧾Wrong or high bill→💸Can’t pay the bill→📣Complaint about a supplier→

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