We understand these technical terms can be confusing but within this guide, our Business Energy Comparison experts have included everything you need to know about gas and electricity supply numbers.
MPAN and MPRN Numbers Explained
MPAN and MPRN Numbers Explained
When comparing the energy market for a better deal, you may be asked for your MPAN (Meter Point Administration Number) and MPRN (Meter Point Reference Number).
What is an MPAN?
A Meter Point Administration Number MPAN is used to locate your electricity supply point and helps ensure you are charged correctly for your electricity usage.
Your MPAN number is a 13-digit code unique to your property and you can find this on your business energy bills.
Example of an MPAN number
Below you can see an example of an MPAN number:
Below we have broken down each section of an MPAN number to make it easier to understand.
What do the digits on an MPAN mean?
As mentioned above, your MPAN number is a 13-digit unique identity reference number, but you may be wondering what these digits mean. Check out our breakdown below to find out more:
01 Profile Class
The profile class is the first two numbers shown after the S at the start of your electricity meter number.
These different classes are used by your energy companies to give them an idea of how much energy you use at your business or household. The different profile classes are as follows:
- Profile Class 1 (01) – Domestic Unrestricted Customers.
- Profile Class 2 (02) – Domestic Economy 7 Customers.
- Profile Class 3 (03) – Non-Domestic Unrestricted Customers.
- Profile Class 4 (04) – Non-Domestic Economy 7 Customers.
- Profile Class 5 (05) – Non-Domestic Maximum Demand (MD) Customers with a Peak (LF) of less than 20%.
- Profile Class 6 (06) – Non-Domestic Maximum Demand Customers with a Peak Load between 20% and 30%.
- Profile Class 7 (07) – Non-Domestic Maximum Demand Customers with a Peak Load between 30% and 40%.
- Profile Class 8 (08) – Non-Domestic Maximum Demand Customers with a Peak Load over 40%.
- Profile Class 00 – Peak Load electricity usage over 100 kW.
Peak Load Factor references the way your business uses its electricity usage. Over a certain period, Peak Load Factor is the ratio of electricity in kWh measured, divided by the total kW (kilowatt hours) that could have been used in the same period, at the peak kW level your business can use.
It is important to remember, that if your meter supply number is within 05 and 08, your energy meter will be a half-hourly meter because of Ofgem’s P272 regulation.
02 Meter Time Switch Code (MTC)
Following the first two numbers, you will see three numbers which will identify if your meter is a single rate or time of use meter. If you are a business owner, you will have a single rate meter but not all businesses will.
03 Line Loss Factor
Following on from this, the next three numbers are known as the Distribution Use of System (DUoS) charges. This is the fee charged to your electricity supplier by the local distribution company for electricity lost which is supplied to your meter. This fee will be used to cover the cost of supplying your electricity via networks and cables.
04 Distributor Identifier code
The next two numbers after the Line Loss Factor are known as the Distributor ID. This Distribution ID is used to identify the regional distribution company for your energy supply.
05 Meter Point ID Number
The following eight numbers are known as the Meter ID number. These eight digits are unique to your distribution centre and are usually split into two groups of four numbers which identify your meter box.
05 Check digit
The final three numbers at the end of your meter number are the check digit which is a sum of the distribution ID and Meter ID.
What is an MPRN?
A Meter Point Reference Number MPRN is used by your gas supplier to identify your actual gas meter as this ensures you are being billed correctly.
Similarly, to an electricity MPAN number, you can find your MPRN number on your business gas bill and sometimes on your gas meter. If you cannot find your MPRN number on a recent gas bill, you can call your business gas supplier and they will be able to provide you with this.
Example of an MPRN number
Below you can see an example of an MPRN number:
Below we have broken down each section of an MPRN number to make it easier to understand.
Where can you find your MPAN and MPRN Number?
You can find your MPAN or MPRN numbers on your business electricity bill.
How do I locate my MPAN and MPRN numbers without a previous bill?
If you are unsure about this and you cannot locate your last electricity bill, there are some other ways you can find these.
If you enter your postcode and company number at “Find my supplier” you will be provided with your MPRN number. Another way you can identify your unique numbers is by calling the Meter Number Helpline on 0870 608 1524.
If you are still unsure of what your MPAN and MPRN numbers are, contact us today and speak to one of our experts. Compare business gas and complete your business electricity comparison today.
Why is it important to know these numbers?
You will rarely have to use your energy meter numbers; you will only need these to hand whilst switching your energy supplier.
Your numbers are important to remember as they are unique to your property and ensure you only get billed for the energy you use.
What will happen to my MPAN and MPRN if I switch energy suppliers?
Your numbers are unique to your business property so if your business moves, these numbers will change.
If you switch business energy suppliers, your MPAN and MPRN numbers will not change as the only time they will change is when you move business premises or new property.
Compare and switch with Business Energy Comparison
Contact Business Energy Comparison now and let our experts help you find the best deal for your business energy and switch suppliers.
If you are looking at switching energy suppliers, our experts can help to find the most suitable deal for your business. We can help manage the entire switching process and help you save money on your electricity bills.
Do you want to switch suppliers? Contact Business Energy Comparison today to find out more.
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