Next day switching planned for 2018

The energy regulator Ofgem is to implement one-day switching by 2018, it is to be implemented in both the household and business energy markets.
Ofgem confirmed the move on 11 February, having held a consultation period with stakeholders. It believes that the mass deployment of smart meter technology, which is set to take place in the years through to 2020 will provide an ideal opportunity to implement a switching process that is both more reliable and faster for energy users.
The regulator sees the move as a necessity in light of the evidence that many energy consumers are not at present seeking a better deal, despite the potential for substantial cost savings. It argues that even a small but sustained growth in switching numbers would see the cost of implementing the reforms outweighed by the benefits to consumers.
Ofgem has put together a five-stage plan for delivering the necessary work programme, with industry workgroups beginning later in 2015. These groups will establish the high-level, “blueprint” design for next-day switching. Ofgem will also continue to explore, during the initial stages of development, whether two-day switching might offer better value for money for energy users.