Electricity bills often look like a jumble of random letters and numbers. Understanding the information on your monthly energy bill can be confusing, but it’s important to have a general grasp of what they mean. This can be particularly useful if you’re switching to a new Watt energy provider.
There are two numbers on your electricity bill that you need to be familiar with: the MPAN and MPRN numbers. If this is your first time learning about these numbers, keep reading for everything you need to know about them.
What is an MPAN Number?
MPAN refers to ‘Meter Point Administration Number’ also known as the Electricity Supply Number. It is the unique reference number that is given to your electricity meter. The MPAN can be referred to as the ‘S number’ or ‘Supply Number’ because it is a 21-digit code that begins with the letter ‘S’. Keep in mind that your MPAN number is different from your customer account number.
The MPAN is linked to your property, which means that it will remain unchanged even if you switch utility online. Your MPAN will change only when you move to a different property.
You can find your MPAN number on your energy bill. It looks like a grid of boxes, split into two rows.
What do the Numbers on the MPAN Mean?
It’s important to know where to find your MPAN number, but it is not necessary to understand what each digit stands for. However, if you are curious, below is a breakdown of what the digits on your MPAN mean:
Profile Class
The first two numbers that you’ll find immediately after the ‘S’ are called the Profile Class. This gives your energy supplier a general idea of the typical energy consumption on the property. Residential homes have a Profile Class of either 01 or 02, while the Profile Class of businesses falls anywhere between 03 and 08. A Profile Class of ‘00’ is given to properties that have installed a half-hourly meter.
Meter Time Switch Code (MTC)
The Meter Time Switch Code (MTC) are the next three digits that immediately come after the Profile Class. They indicate whether your meter is a single-rate or time-of-use meter.
Line Loss Factor (LLF)
The last three digits on the topmost row of your MPAN are the Distribution Use of System (DUoS) charges. The numbers reflect the fees that your energy supplier will charge you for the cost of supplying electricity to your property. It also reveals the amount of electricity that is lost during the process. Generally, the farther your property is from the distribution centre, the higher your electricity bills will be.
Distribution ID
The first two digits on the bottom row of your MPAN refer to the company that is responsible for your electricity supply. If you want to know which distribution company manages the wires that deliver electricity to your property, then you can refer to these numbers.
Meter Point ID
The Meter Point ID is a sequence of eight numbers split into two which signifies the metering point.
Check Digit
Finally, the Check Digit number is used to verify the Meter Point ID and Distribution ID numbers. Think of it as the Card Verification Value (CVV) of your electricity meter.
Where Can You Find the MPAN Number?
Unlike the MPRN, which we’ll discuss later, the MPAN is not printed on your electricity meter. To find it, you will have to check your most recent electricity bill. The MPAN number is usually printed at the top left corner.
If you don’t have a copy of your electricity bill, you can ring your local distribution network operator (DNO). The Energy Networks Association provides a complete list of DNOs along with their phone numbers.
What is an MPRN Number?
The MPRN or Meter Point Reference Number is a unique reference number that is linked to your gas meter. The MPRN is often called the ‘M number’ and consists of six to ten digits.
Similar to an MPAN, it remains unchanged. This means that even if you compare business gas suppliers and decide to make the switch, it will always be unique to your property. Essentially, it is the equivalent of an MPAN — but for the reference of business gas suppliers.
Where can you find the MPRN number?
You will be able to find your MPRN number by checking your gas meter. It is also printed on gas bills underneath ‘Details of Charges’.
Don’t have your previous gas bill? You can find the information on the ‘Find My Supplier’ website where you will have to provide your building name, postal code, and address. You can also call the Meter Number Helpline at 0870 608 1524.
Why do Energy Suppliers Need Your MPAN and MPRN Numbers?
MPAN and MPRN numbers are unique ‘codes’ that are assigned to your property. Energy suppliers use these numbers to be certain that they are supplying electricity to the right property. They also use these numbers to quickly pinpoint your building.
If you switch electricity or gas suppliers, you will have to provide your new supplier with your MPAN and MPRN numbers. This allows them to confirm that they are ‘taking over’ the correct energy or gas supply, making the process of switching utility suppliers as speedy and straightforward as possible.
The next time you receive your utility bills, keep this information to make sure that your MPAN and MPRN numbers are there when you need them.
How Can You Switch Energy Suppliers?
When you switch suppliers, your MPAN and MPRN numbers won’t change. If you’re considering switching to a new energy provider in the U.K., the easiest way would be to get a quote for your utility. There are hundreds of suppliers across the country, each offering a variety of deals at different rates. To make sure that you don’t end up spending more than you should, consider conducting an energy price comparison.
Our team will help you narrow down your options from a list of the most reputable electricity and gas suppliers in the country.
Contact us today to get started.
