Switching supplier on a complex metering site (2 MPANS)

R_S_Blackburn

Hi.
Since June 2019 I have been trying to switch my electricity provider from NPOWER to GNE.  Repeated attempts have been rejected by NPOWER.  In making such a switch I understand that both MPANS must be moved at the same time and GNE have made those requests.  However, NPOWER refuse to release the supply because they insist that the request to move both MPANS MUST be done using a SINGLE order.  GNE cannot do this.  GNE are making the switch requests on two separate "orders" - one for each MPAN.  All this is reflected in the industry wide database "ECOES".  Npower claim that the method used by GNE is "fanciful, probably illegal and certainly no allowed".  Meanwhile, GNE tell me that they have made similar switches from other providers many times.  GNE insist that  although their systems require such a switch to be made in two parts it is legal, and allowed - as one might expect from a regulated provider.  The issue has been reported to the Ombudsman who uphold npower's refusal to switch on the basis that "they (the Ombudsman) cannot cause a supplier to make changes to their administrative processes".   I have appealed that decision as I do not see this can be a fair situation when a customer's freedom of choice is frustrated as a result of "admin" issues.  FYI - npower did recommend I move to a supplier who can make the request in the form that they (npower) require.  They recommended E.ON.  E.ON now (or will shortly) own npower!

So, my questions are: 1) what part of the law / legislation might npower be referring to when claiming that GNEs switch request "is probably illegal", 2) is it legal for a provider to reject a switch of multiple mpans if that request is NOT made in one part 3) do you have any other (helpful) advice / pointers.

Finally, npower is charging a standing charge for each of my two meters (one is Economy 7).  Is this permitted?  I have seen other comments on the WEB which suggest it might not be.

Any help much appreciated. 

macman

Yes, the whole downside of E10 or any other  complex metering system is that you pay 2 service charges. Not clear what tariff you are actually on, as if it's E7 there is no point in being on dual metering?
The conventional wisdom on here is that you should not attempt to switch provider on E10 or THTC. Only the legacy providers support it, and all attempts invariably end in tears, as you have found. And the tariffs are highly uncompetitive.
Unless you absolutely must have the extra 3 hours afternoon boost (or whatever it is your tariff offers), it's better to bite the bullet, rewire your side as required and switch to E7, which will give you the full spread of suppliers to choose from, and only one s/c.
I can't help you on the legal finer points, but if you've failed to make headway in 17 months and have failed to make a case to the Ombudsman, then you are pretty much at the end of the road.
How big a saving would GNE even offer you, given that the original tariff that attracted you must be long gone now? I can see no mention on the GNE site that they even support E10?

R_S_Blackburn

Thank you macman.  Most helpful.  I made an error on my post - this has been going on since June THIS year.  Either way, the idea of re-wiring is worth a thought.  Still, I enjoy a fight and will persist on the legal stuff if there is anyone out there who can help

macman

So you've raised a dispute with Eon, got nowhere, taken it to the Ombudsman and had it refused all in 4 months? That's impressive progress, albeit in the wrong direction.
Again, do you really need to be on E10, and will the saving be worth it if you stay on it with GNE? You will never get back the money you are wasting in the meantime: the most the Ombudsman might award you if you win on appeal is £50 to £100.