If you’re moving to newly-built premises, you will need to set up your new electricity connections. This starts with applying for a new meter end point. In this article, we explain what this means and how to get started.
A business meter end point is the point at which your business electricity supply is connected to the local distribution network. This connection is made via your electricity meter.
In the UK, a every meter end point has its own unique identifier, known as an MPAN (Meter Point Administration Number) for electricity and an MPRN (Meter Point Reference Number) for gas. This number is used by energy suppliers to identify the specific meter and supply point for a business, and it is important for ensuring that accurate energy bills are issued.
The MPAN consists of a 13-digit number that is broken down into two parts. The first two digits of the MPAN are known as the 'profile class' and indicate the type of meter that is being used. For example, a profile class of '00' is typically used for half hourly meters, while a profile classes of '03'-‘04’ are used for non-half hourly meters.
The remaining 11 digits of the MPAN are known as the 'meter point identifier' and are unique to each supply point.
The business MPAN is typically printed on the electricity bill for a business, and it is important to ensure that the number is accurate and up to date. If you are a business owner or manager and you are moving to a newly-built premises, you will need to apply for a new MPAN for the new supply point.
When you set up a new business electricity connection, your electricity supplier will arrange for a meter to be installed at your premises.
How to Apply for a New Meter End Point
When setting up your new electricity connection, you can either do this yourself or use a third party such as Tritility.
If you’re setting up your own connection, you’ll need to arrange this via your local Distribution Network Operator (DNO). You can find your local DNO here. This will require some paperwork, and they will need certain information about your business, from the basics such as your site address, to more detailed information about your site layout and the kind of load your new meters will require (see the next section for more information on meter types).
If you decide to use an intermediary to source your new energy contracts, they may also be able to help you set up your new meter end points. Find out more about how we can help you set up your new electricity connection here.
Once you have applied for a new meter end point, you can request to have a meter installed. Before you do this, you will need to find a supplier. For more information about this, read our guide to business energy procurement.
The supplier will arrange for the installation of the meter. This may involve working with a third-party contractor to install the meter and any necessary communications equipment.
There are two main types of business meters in the UK: half hourly (HH) and non-half hourly (NHH). Your supplier will be able to advise you on the type of meter you need based on your energy usage and other factors.
If you choose to source your energy through Tritility, our experts will be able to help you determine what kind of meter your business is required to have. Read more about this in our Half Hourly Meters guide.
Once the meter has been installed, it will need to be tested and certified to ensure that it is working properly and accurately measuring your energy usage. Then it will be activated by your electricity supplier. At this point, you should be able to start using the new meter and will be billed based on your energy usage.
For help and advice on all aspects of setting up your new electricity connections, get in touch and we'll be happy to help. And when it's time to choose your new energy tariff, why not get a quote and find out how much you could save.