If you are about to switch business energy supplier or run a comparison, you will be asked for your MPAN (electricity) and MPRN (gas). Both numbers identify your specific meter to the central UK energy systems. This guide shows exactly where to find them, what each digit means, and what to do if you cannot find them on a bill.
What is an MPAN?
MPAN stands for Meter Point Administration Number. It is a 21-digit number that uniquely identifies your electricity supply point in the UK. Sometimes called your “Supply Number” or “S-Number” because of the S in the diamond logo printed alongside it on bills.
The 21 digits are split into:
- Top line (8 digits): Profile Class (2), Meter Time-Switch Code (3), Line Loss Factor (3).
- Bottom line (13 digits): Distributor ID (2), Unique reference (8), Check digit (3).
What is an MPRN?
MPRN stands for Meter Point Reference Number. It is a 6-10 digit number identifying your gas supply meter. Sometimes called your “M-Number”.
Where do I find my MPAN and MPRN?
- On any recent bill: Look for “MPAN” or “Supply Number” alongside an S-in-a-diamond icon, or “MPRN” / “Meter Point Reference”.
- On your supplier’s online portal: Usually in the meter details or supply information section.
- By phoning your supplier: Ask for your MPAN and MPRN and the supply address they relate to.
- On the meter itself: MPAN is rarely on the meter directly; MPRN is sometimes on a sticker.
- From the central databases: For electricity call the Meter Point Administration Service on 0870 608 1524; for gas call the Meter Number Helpline on 0870 608 1524.
What does each digit of the MPAN mean?
The 21-digit MPAN tells suppliers everything they need to price your electricity correctly:
- Profile Class (PC): 1-4 are non-half-hourly domestic and small business; 5-8 are non-half-hourly larger business; 0 is half-hourly. Drives how usage is profiled.
- Meter Time-Switch Code (MTC): Identifies whether you have a single rate, day/night Economy 7 style, or more complex time-of-use registers.
- Line Loss Factor (LLF): Adjusts your usage for the energy lost in transmission and distribution to your specific connection point.
- Distributor ID: 14 distinct two-digit codes identifying your DNO — e.g. 10 = Eastern, 12 = London, 18 = NEDL.
- Unique reference + check digit: Identifies your specific meter point and validates the rest of the number.
What if I cannot find my MPAN or MPRN?
Two common scenarios:
- You moved into the premises and have no bill yet: Phone the meter number helpline (0870 608 1524). They can identify the MPAN/MPRN for the address and tell you which supplier currently bills it (this will be a deemed-rate contract until you switch).
- Your bill is unclear: Phone your current supplier and ask. They are required to confirm.
MPAN and MPRN when switching supplier
The MPAN/MPRN is the unique key your new supplier needs to take over the meter from your old supplier. Provide them at the start of the comparison so quotes are accurate to your specific connection. The change-of-supplier process happens against your MPAN/MPRN — nothing physical changes at the meter.
Frequently Asked Questions
An MPAN is exactly 21 digits long, displayed across two lines on most bills. The top line is 8 digits (the “Supply Number Top Line”); the bottom line is 13 digits.
An MPRN is between 6 and 10 digits long. Newer meter installations tend to have longer MPRNs; older domestic meters can have 6-7 digits.
No — each MPAN identifies a single physical meter. Two businesses sharing a building usually have separate sub-meters (no MPAN) feeding off a single landlord-controlled MPAN, with the landlord recharging usage. If both need their own contracts, the building needs separate MPANs installed.
No — the MPAN belongs to the meter and stays the same forever. Only the supplier billing against that MPAN changes.
MPRN is usually printed on a sticker on the meter itself or on the meter housing. If not, your most recent bill will list it. Failing both, your supplier or the meter helpline can confirm.
Got your numbers? Get a free 60-second business energy quote — we use your MPAN and MPRN to pull live, accurate quotes from every UK supplier.
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