What are MPAN and MPRN numbers?
To switch energy and gas suppliers, you’ll be asked to provide your MPAN and MPRN numbers. You might be wondering – what are they, and where can you find them? Below, we take an in-depth look at what these individual numbers mean and how they affect your prices. If you would like to read more information or learn more about the pricing of business energy, you can do so here .
What is an MPAN number?
The Meter Point Administration Number, or MPAN, is the identifying number for the electric energy meter in your property. You should note that although it’s sometimes referred to as the Electricity Supply Number, it’s not your customer account number.
What is an MPRN number?
The Meter Point Reference Number, or MPRN, is the same as the MPAN but for your gas meter. Remember that, like the MPAN, you shouldn’t confuse it with your customer account number.
Where can you find the MPAN and MPRN numbers?
The MPAN is a 21 digit number that can be found printed on your latest electricity bill. If you’re struggling to identify it, get in touch with your local electric energy provider. It should be easy to locate, as the numbers usually come in individual boxes as part of a larger table, with a big S at the front.
The MPRN is a 6 to 10 digit number that allows your residential property to be identified by gas suppliers. Note that the beginning of your MPRN number provides you with different information. If it starts with 74 or 75, it means that an independent firm provides your gas supply. Usually, this means that your gas prices are higher. To rectify this, you can get in touch with an energy broker or agent to negotiate a better price for you.
To find your unique MPRN number, you can input your postcode into Find My Supplier (link here) or contact the Meter Number Helpline on 0870 608 1524.
When might you need to use your MPAN and MPRN numbers?
There are two main situations where you’ll need both numbers. The first is when you move house, as your unique numbers will change with your new property. The new numbers will be supplied to you by the energy provider.
The other main, and most common reason, is when you are changing energy suppliers. Your unique numbers won’t change. However, as part of the switching process, the new supplier will need the MPAN and MPRN to identify your property.
Can you find the MPRN and MPAN numbers on your meter?
Neither the MPRN nor MPAN numbers are displayed on your meter. This can be confusing, as many people mistake the numbers for the meter serial number (MSN) displayed on the box. The latter does not identify your property but instead identifies your specific meter.
The MSN is a 9 to 12 digit number that’s usually printed beneath the barcode of your standard meter. If you have a smart reader, the number will be located in front of the meter box. This number usually starts with the letter F and L on the electricity and gas meters, respectively.
A breakdown of the MPAN number
As mentioned above, the MPAN is a 21 digit number that starts with the letter S. The first two digits, which appear immediately after the S, identify your property’s class profile . This gives suppliers a rough idea of how much electricity your property consumes over 24 hours.
The following three numbers are called the Meter Time Switch Code , which identifies what type of meter you have installed on your property.
The last three digits of the top line of the MPAN refer to the Line Loss Factor , which provides a guideline as to how much the distributor will charge your energy supplier to use the network at your location.
The first two digits of the bottom line refer to the Distributor ID . This identifies the regional company that is responsible for supplying your energy.
The following eight digits are a unique number that identifies the Meter Point ID . This number is specific to your distribution area and is used to locate the metering location.
The final three digits, called the Check Digit , are used as a reference point to verify both the Distributor ID and the Meter Point ID. You should note that when your energy provider requests your MPAN number, they usually only need the bottom (last) 13 digits instead of the whole 21 digit number.
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