New implementing rules to reduce the switching electricity suppliers process to 24 hours by the end of 2026

The European Commission has adopted new EU rules making it easier for consumers to change supplier and secure better energy offers. This Implementing Regulation - secondary legislation linked to the Electricity Directive (EU/2019/944) - will help ensure that Europe's energy market works better for consumers by supporting affordable energy and strengthening the ability of consumers to mitigate price increases. As outlined in last month's Citizens' Energy Package, it reinforces the EU's commitment to a consumer-centred energy transition. The new rules will enable the back-office process of switching supplier to be completed within 24 hours by the end of 2026. In practice, this means that once a customer decides to switch, the process behind the scenes, including registering the new supplier, will be completed within one working day.

This will make it easier for consumers to switch to better deals, including pricing options which reward flexibility, or new services like demand response, while also strengthening competition and innovation in retail electricity markets.

The Commission will continue to support EU countries and market participants in implementing the new rules, including through guidance and stakeholder engagement.

Background

Developed with stakeholders and the Joint Working Group on data interoperability of the ENTSO-E and the EU DSO Entity, it is the second in a series of measures under the Electricity Directive (EU 2019/944) following Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2023/1162 on access to metering and consumption data, and contributing to the creation of a fully interoperable and digitalised retail electricity market in the EU.

Related links

• Implementing Regulation
• Electricity Directive (EU 2019/944)
• Protecting and empowering energy consumers
• Affordable energy
• Smart grids and meters
• Citizens Energy Package: Commission to boost access to affordable and clean energy for all Europeans
• Have Your Say: Call for feedback on technical rules for smoothly switching electricity supplier