Guide to MPANs and MPRN Numbers
To switch business electricity and business gas suppliers, you need to know your MPAN number and MPRN number. These are activated when your gas or electricity meter is scheduled to be installed.
If you need any assistance, don't worry! Business owners contact us every day to learn more about their MPRN number, meter profile class, and profile class rating. They are essential switching tools, but they add to the already massive pile of confusing jargon in the business energy industry.
What Is An MPAN Number?
MPAN stands for Meter Point Administration Number. It is a unique number assigned to your business and is used by your energy supplier to identify your electricity supply point. An MPAN can also be referred to as an S Number or Supply Number.
Every single domestic and commercial electricity customer across the UK has their own unique MPAN. The digits will never change, even if you switch electricity suppliers.
You can find your MPAN/ Supply Number on the top left or bottom right of a recent electricity bill. In some cases, you can find the digits on your electricity meter.
Here's what an MPAN should look like:
As you can see in the MPAN example shown, there are two rows containing numbers, split into three parts. The top left number identifies your Profile Type, the number in the middle top row is your Meter Time Switch Code, and the last set of numbers in the top right is your Line Loss Factor. On the bottom left is your Distributor ID, the bottom middle is your Meter Point ID Number, and finally in the bottom right is your Check Digit.
Why Are MPAN Numbers Important?
MPAN numbers are necessary for electricity suppliers to identify your account. If you ever have a problem with billing, energy usage, or anything else, your supplier will refer to these numbers.
On top of that, you can’t switch electricity suppliers without your MPAN.
What Is A Meter Profile Type?
A meter profile class tells suppliers your typical electricity consumption during hours of maximum demand. Your profile class is easy to find; it is the first two letters after the S in your MPAN number.
Here are the standard meter profile classes in your MPAN.
- Profile Class 1 (01) - Domestic unrestricted customers
- Profile Class 2 (02) - Domestic Economy 7 customers
- Profile Classic 3 (03) - Non-domestic unrestricted customers
- Profile Class 4 (04) - Non-domestic Economy 7 customers
- Profile Class 5 (05) - Non-domestic Maximum Demand (MD) customers with a Peak Load Factor (LF) of less than 20%
- Profile Class 6 (06) - Non-domestic Maximum Demand (MD) customers with a Peak Load Factor between 20% and 30%
- Profile Class 7 (07) - Non-domestic Maximum Demand customer with a Peak Load Factor between 30% and 40%
- Profile Class 8 (08) - Non-domestic Maximum Demand customer with a Peak Load Factor over 40%
The Peak Load Factor tells suppliers how much electricity you use, and how much electricity you could have used. To find the Peak Load Factor, suppliers take the ratio of electricity in a time frame and divide it by the total possible kWhs that you could have used in that period.
What Is Profile Class 00?
A Profile Class 00 code means that your Peak Load usage is above 100 kW and can be found at the start of your MPAN. Despite the name, this is the highest meter profile class possible. It typically only applies to very large businesses that use lots of electricity. Businesses with this profile class use half-hourly meters; this is what the 00 designates.
You could also be on a half-hourly meter if your MPAN starts with '05', '06', '07', or '08'.
What Is An LLF?
A Line Loss Factor (LLF), in your MPAN, tells you how much your supplier is expected to charge when setting up new networks and cables in your area. It also tells you how much of your electricity is lost through the system as it travels to your meter.
Overall, around 7% of electricity is lost in this way.
What Is A Distributor Identifier Code?
A Distributor Identifier Code in your MPAN, also known as a Distributor ID, is a unique number attributed to a distribution company. That company handles the wiring, infrastructure, and logistics of connecting your premises to a supply.
Here is a list of Distributor IDs.
| ID | Name | Operator |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | Eastern England | UK Power Networks |
| 11 | East Midlands | Western Power Distribution |
| 12 | London | UK Power Networks |
| 13 |
Merseyside and Northern Wales |
ScottishPower |
| 14 | West Midlands | Western Power Distribution |
| 15 | North Eastern England | Northern Power Grid |
| 16 | North Western England | Electricity North West |
| 17 | Northern Scotland | SSE Power Distribution |
| 18 | Southern Scotland | ScottishPower |
| 19 | South Eastern England | UK Power Networks |
| 20 | Southern England | SSE Power Distribution |
| 21 | Southern Wales | Western Power Distribution |
| 22 | South Western England | Western Power Distribution |
| 23 | Yorkshire | Northern Power Grid |
| 27 | Unmetered Supply | Unmetered Supply |
What If I Can’t Find My MPAN Number?
You can find your MPAN number on your most recent gas and electricity bills. If, for some reason, you don’t have access to your most recent bill, you can find your numbers online at Find My Supplier. Just enter your postcode.
If you want to speak to someone over the phone, call the Meter Number Helpline on 0870 608 1524.
What Is An MPRN Number?
A Meter Point Reference Number, or MPRN number, is a set of 11 digits that identify your gas supply point. They are also sometimes called M Numbers. Every location that has a gas supply in the UK also has a unique set of MPRN digits.
You can find your MPRN number in the top right corner of your gas bill.
Why Are MPRN Numbers Important?
These numbers are necessary for gas suppliers to identify your account. If you ever have a problem with billing, energy usage, or anything else, your supplier will refer to these numbers. You won't be able to switch gas suppliers without your MPRN.
Are MPRN And Gas Meter Serial Numbers The Same?
No - An MPRN is unique to you and your business to identify your account, whereas a Gas Meter Serial Number is specific to your meter box.
A Gas Meter Serial Number (MSN) can vary depending on your meter type:
If you have a standard meter, you should find your MSN above or below the barcode on your meter box. It's usually between 9-12 digits, and for gas meters it can start with an 'L' and end with an 'M'
For a business smart meter, the MSN will usually be on the front of your meter box next to the barcode. Gas smart meter MSNs usually start with a G4P.
How To Find MPRN
You can find your MPRN on your gas meter or a recent gas bill from your gas supplier. Look for a number between 6-10 digits. This should be your MPRN.
If your MPRN starts with a '74' or '75' your gas is supplied by an IGT (Independent Gas Transporter). IGTs can sometimes be more expensive.
Switching Energy Suppliers With SwitchWhiz
Switchwhiz can find you the best energy deals for commercial gas and electricity. Even better, our experts at will eliminate all of the admin work, since we are a trusted business energy broker.
Tell us your MPAN and MPRN number as well as a few extra details, and let us handle the rest.
Before you know it, you will have a much cheaper tariff.