Where to find the MPAN number
Your MPAN is not displayed on your meter box. The easiest way to get this information is to refer to an electricity or combined energy bill. It should be clearly displayed in these documents.
However, whether you’ve mislaid or lost previous bills or you’ve just moved into a new property and are yet to receive a bill, there may be occasions when you can’t get your MPAN in this way. Fortunately, this is an alternative.
How do I find my MPAN number without a bill?
If you can’t access a previous bill, another way to discover your MPAN is by getting in touch with your local distribution network operator (DNO). Don’t worry if you’re not sure who the operator is in your area. This information is readily available online. For example, the Energy Networks Association provides a full list of DNOs for the country, along with phone numbers. You can also contact Citizens Advice to get hold of this information. You’ll simply need to provide the organisation with your postcode and address. It will then identify your DNO based on this.
Once you have the contact information for your DNO, you can ask this operator for your MPAN number.
What is an MPRN number?
A unique identifying number for your gas supply, a Meter Point Reference Number (MPRN) is the equivalent of a MPAN for domestic and business gas users. Just like an MPAN, it is individual to your property and it doesn’t change if you switch to a new energy supplier. Sometimes referred to as an ‘M number’, it is shorter and simpler than a MPAN.
Typically, MPRNs are made up of six to 10 digits – all numbers with no letters. It’s important to be aware that your MPRN is not the same as your customer account number. It is usually the latter that you need when dealing with your gas supplier. However, you may need to refer to your MPRN if you’re moving to a new home or business premises, or you’re changing your gas supplier.
Where to find an MPRN number
Unlike MPANs, these numbers are sometimes stamped on meters, so you may be able to find yours by checking your gas meter. The information is also provided in your gas bills. It’s usually printed at the top or bottom of bills, but exactly where it appears will depend on your energy supplier.
If you can’t find the information on your meter and you don’t have a previous gas or combined energy bill, you can search for your gas MPRN number online by visiting the Find My Supplier website and entering your postcode and address.
The importance of keeping your billing information to hand
Whether you receive energy bills from your supplier through the post or online, it’s important to keep this information safe and to make sure it’s accessible when you need it. There are a variety of reasons why you may have to refer to information contained within your bills, including your MPAN and MPRN. Knowing where to find these details can make your life easier and ensure that tasks such as switching energy suppliers are as quick and straightforward as possible.
Keeping your billing information to hand will also make it easier for you to monitor how much you’re spending on gas and electricity – and potentially to find ways to reduce these costs.
