How to Change Electricity Supplier in 2026?

Why change electricity supplier?

In France, the electricity market has been open to competition since 2007 for individuals. You can freely choose your supplier without any constraints. Learn more about the energy market in France and why competition matters. The main reasons for changing include:

Potential savings: Market offers can be more competitive than the reference price (VNU), especially for certain consumption profiles.

Contract type: Some suppliers offer 100% green energy, fixed rates, or specific options tailored to your needs.

Customer service: Service quality varies between suppliers. Reviews and satisfaction ratings can guide your choice.

Key point: changing is free and without interruption

Changing electricity supplier is free, without interruption of supply, and without penalty. Your contract simply switches to the new supplier while keeping your Linky meter and Enedis connection. You may also want to understand electricity prices in 2026 before making your choice.

Steps to change supplier

Step 1: Gather your information

Before starting, prepare:

Your PDL (Point De Livraison) number: 14 digits visible on your bill or Linky meter
Your current annual consumption in kWh
Your contract power level (3, 6, 9 kVA...)
Your pricing option (Base, Peak/Off-Peak, Tempo)

Step 2: Compare available offers

Compare suppliers by considering:

kWh and subscription price
Price type (fixed, indexed, variable)
Contract duration and termination conditions
Energy origin (green, nuclear, mixed)
Customer service quality

Step 3: Subscribe to the new offer

Subscription is usually done online in a few minutes. You'll need:

Your PDL number
Your identity
Bank details for direct debit
Your previous supplier information

Step 4: Your new supplier handles everything

Once subscribed, your new supplier:

Terminates your old contract automatically
Schedules the switch with Enedis
Notifies you of the effective date (usually within 15 days)

What happens to my old contract?

Your old contract is automatically terminated by your new supplier. You don't need to contact your former supplier. A final bill will be sent to you based on the switch date reading.

Specific cases

If you're moving: When moving, you need to terminate your old contract yourself and subscribe to a new one at your new address. See our complete moving energy steps guide for detailed instructions.

Commitment contract: Even with a commitment, you can leave without penalty for a supplier change (only valid for the same address).

Deposit: If you paid a deposit, it will be refunded on your final bill.

Important things to know

The electricity doesn't change

It's the same electricity circulating in the network, managed by Enedis, regardless of your supplier. Only the commercial relationship and billing change.

No power cut

The switch is transparent. There is no power interruption during the supplier change.

Right of withdrawal

You have 14 days to withdraw from a distance contract (online, phone). The switch will then be cancelled at no cost.

Reversion is always possible

You can always return to your old supplier or choose another one. Switching remains free and unlimited.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does changing supplier take?

The switch typically takes place within 15 working days of your subscription.

Do I need to notify my old supplier?

No, your new supplier handles the termination automatically.

Are there hidden fees when changing?

No, changing electricity supplier is completely free in France.

Can I go back to my old supplier after changing?

Yes, you can change supplier as many times as you want, without fees or penalties.

What happens if my new supplier goes bankrupt?

You would be automatically transferred to the fallback supplier (EDF) to ensure supply continuity.

Sources and References

The information provided in this article is for guidance only and does not constitute personalized advice. We recommend comparing several offers before making a decision.