How to read your energy bill
Gas & Electricity General
Basic items included on your bill:
- Name, address, customer reference number, bill date and basic information
- Current tariffs, contract date and exit fees
- Tariff comparison rates
- Billing date period, current usage projected usage
- Supplier’s details
- Amount due (breakdown with & without VAT)
What to look out for:
- If your account is marked in credit or debit for each fuel. If you are lopsided in credit or debit you may want to contact your supplier and ask them to recalculate your average usage.
- Your tariff and personal projection – if you are expecting a change in personal circumstances you may want to let your energy supplier know so they can update your projections.
- Billing period – watch out for any unexpected spikes.
- If you are paying monthly or quarterly. If you are paying a standard direct debit monthly this could mean you’ll save aside money for the colder months.
- When your contract ends. Your supplier should contact you before your contract ends to give you options on what to do next. You will need to switch to a new fixed rate tariff as after your current tariff period ends you will be put on a standard variable rate tariff, which can be a lot more expensive.
Bill breakdown
How much you owe is broken into a standing charge and your cost of energy per unit (‘unit rate’). This is the rate that your energy supplier sells you energy at and is measured in pence per kilowatt hours (kWh).
A standing charge will be on all tariffs. This charge is placed on your bill for the maintenance of your meter.
Dual Tariff
Suitable for those with both electricity and a gas supply. Most suppliers offer a discount if you are on a dual tariff. It’s best to check that this is still a cheaper option for you than having a separate supplier for each.
Bill Glossary
Meter Point Administration Number (MPAN)
This is the unique reference number for the electricity supply for your property.
Meter Point Reference Number (MPRN)
This is the unique reference number for the gas supply for your property.
Wholesale cost refers to the price that the energy supplier has to pay for the gas and electricity they buy.
