Evolving multiple retailing and switching

Upcoming Open Closed Decision

View submissions Submissions closed 29 July 2025

Decision

Thanks to all who provided feedback on this consultation. Submitters were generally supportive of our proposals to make switching more effective and efficient, but expressed concerns about the industry cost of implementing the multiple trading relationships proposal.

We have listened to submitters’ concerns, engaged with the Switch and Data Formats Group, and developed a revised proposal that would be simpler and more cost effective. It would also mean changes could be in place sooner, so consumers can benefit earlier.

We will consult on this revised proposal in late January 2026 alongside an updated independent assessment of the associated costs and benefits. This supplementary consultation will be open for three weeks.

Consultation

This consultation sought feedback on two related proposals:

Allowing customers to choose two different retailers; a retailer for consumption (load) and one for their generation

Improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the consumer, distributor and metering equipment provider processes when a consumer switches power.

These proposed changes will provide real benefits for consumers by allowing innovative retailers to compete for, and reward consumers for, their distributed generation. This should encourage investment in distributed generation, leading to an increase in regional resilience and overall system security.

Consultation paper