What is an MPAN?
24 September 2024
Your MPAN (Meter Point Administration Number), also known as a ‘Supply Number’ or ‘S Number’, is a unique 21-digit code linked to your electricity meter. It contains important details about your meter type and supply point.
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Where can I find my MPAN?
Your MPAN is printed on your electricity bill, typically under the ‘Supply Number’ section. If you also have a gas meter, you may see a separate Meter Point Reference Number (MPRN) on your gas bill. These numbers help suppliers manage your gas supplies and electricity accounts efficiently.
If you can’t find your MPAN, you may still be able to get a quote using your postcode, but this won’t be as accurate. Need help? We can find this information for you - get in touch to learn more.
If You’ve Just Moved In
The quickest way to find your MPAN is by checking a bill from the previous occupier's energy supplier.
In this case, you are known as a Change of Tenancy (CoT) customer - meaning you’ve inherited the existing energy supplier. Read our CoT guide to learn more.
Still unsure? Check the serial number on your meter or take a photo of it and contact us - we’ll do the rest!
What makes up my MPAN?
Profile Class
Your Profile Class identifies whether your supply is domestic (01 & 02) or business. It can also indicate the type of meter you have.
00 – Half-hourly metered supply (common for larger businesses)
01 & 02 – Domestic energy customers
Meter Time Switch Code (MTC)
The Meter Time Switch Code tells your supplier how your meter measures electricity usage. It defines:
How many registers your meter has (e.g., single-rate or Economy 7)
When each register records consumption (e.g., 12am – 6:59am, 7am – 11:59pm)
Line Loss Factor (LLF)
This represents how much energy is lost during transmission from the main network to your meter.
The further your location is from the grid, the higher the energy loss.
Area Code
The UK has 13 distribution areas, each with unique meter configurations and pricing structures.
Your area code identifies which distribution company maintains the energy network for your location.
Unique Identifier
A set of digits that uniquely identifies your electricity supply point.
Check Digit
A three-digit number generated using a mathematical algorithm.
It ensures your MPAN is accurate and free from errors.
Domestic MPANs
Domestic properties are generally only equipped with supplies that have a profile class of either 1 or 2:
01 ‘Domestic Unrestricted’, where you are charged a standard rate based on your consumption.
02 ‘Domestic Economy 7’ which includes off-peak pricing during certain hours of the night.
If you move into a business premise supplied by one of the above profiles it is still possible to get a business energy tariff although some suppliers may ask that you upgrade your profile to a business class first. If this is the case, get in touch and we will be happy to talk you through the process.
In some cases it is necessary to install a half hourly meter in a domestic property in which case the profile class will be 00 but the good news is you will almost never encounter this when moving house!
Is an MPAN or MPRN the same as a meter serial number?
They are often confused but no, MPANS and MPRNs are very different from meter serial numbers. A single energy supply can have more than one meter and meters can be changed or upgraded during the lifetime of the supply. This means the serial numbers will change and it is important the supply number is kept separate to enable continuity of billing.
What is a meter serial number and what does it look like?
A meter serial number, often abbreviated to MSN, is a unique combination of numbers and letters that identifies your meter. It enables energy companies to keep an accurate record of information about a given meter.