Ofgem, the energy regulator, will appoint a Supplier of Last resort and any credit from your old account is transferred to your new account. Once the SoLR is in place, you can begin to compare competitive prices from alternative suppliers. The SoLR may try to enter you into a contract instead of the deemed rates contract, but it is vital to compare the market before doing this as you may incur exit fees.
What is a SoLR?
The UK energy regulator, Ofgem, will rapidly allocate a Supplier of last resort (SoLR) on a case-by-case basis to replace the supply of electricity and gas when the initial supplier ceases trading. Due to the ongoing energy crisis, many energy suppliers are unable to continue trading because of the skyrocketing prices, this is where a SoLR is beneficial.
How will a supplier of last resort affect my prices?
Customers will be placed on deemed rates when their initial contract suddenly stops to continue the flow of electricity and gas. Many suppliers will try to match the price you were paying for your energy but sometimes your costs may slightly increase.
Can I change my supplier of last resort?
You have the right to change your supplier once the Supplier of Last Resort has taken over as they keep your energy supply ticking over. This is an ideal opportunity for you to review your energy deal and compare business energy prices from alternative suppliers. It is important to remember, you will not be charged any fees when changing this and you are free to switch supplier at any time.
Examples of Suppliers of Last Resort
| Supplier | SoLR | Year |
| Tonik | Scottish Power | 2020 |
| Go Effortless | Octopus | 2020 |
| GnERGY | Bulb | 2020 |
| Breeze Energy | British Gas | 2019 |
| Toto Energy | EDF | 2019 |
| Eversmart Energy | Utilita | 2019 |
| Solarplicity | EDF | 2019 |
| Cardiff Energy Supply | SSE | 2019 |
| Brilliant Energy | SSE | 2019 |
| Our Power | Utilita | 2019 |
| Economy Energy | Ovo | 2019 |
*Please note that this information was correct as of 2021, however the data is based on estimates and can be subject to change.
Frequently asked questions
The energy regulator, Ofgem, will implement a SoLR or “Supplier of Last Resort” if your supplier ceased business.
In regards to domestic customers, the protection of funds paid by non-domestic customers into their accounts “cannot be guaranteed”. Find out more information here.
No, if your supplier ceased business, your supply will not be cut off. Other suppliers will bid to replace the contracts of businesses that have ceased trading and Ofgem will try to get the best possible deal for the customer in these circumstances.
Depending on your new supplier, you will still need to pay the debt to your new supplier if they have agreed to take on customer debts owed to your old supplier. If this is not the case, you will need to set up a payment plan with your old supplier’s administrators that will get in touch with you.
Ofgem will be working on finding your new supplier as quickly as possible. This will be announced on their website within a few days.
Businesses that use a smart meter will be appointed a SoLR and will still have access to a continuous supply. Similarly, to traditional meters, Ofgem will quickly find a suitable supplier for the circumstances. If a supplier is appointed but they can’t operate your smart meter in smart mode, it will work as a traditional meter for that time.
Your business contract will now be void and you will immediately be put on an “out of contract” rate which may result in your bills increasing. This will only be the case until a new tariff is agreed.
Ofgem advises that you should not cancel your direct debit as your new supplier will get in touch to provide further information on direct debit arrangements.
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