What is an MPRN?

What is an MPRN

An MPRN (Meter Point Reference Number) is a unique identifying number for your gas supply. This is the equivalent of an MPAN number for domestic and commercial gas consumers. Like an MPAN number, this does not change if you switch suppliers. MPRNs are shorter than MPANs, containing six to ten numbers and no letters. Getting your account number and MPRN mixed up is easy, but these are entirely different.

Why does my MPRN matter?

Your MPRN is the reference the entire gas industry uses to identify your specific supply point. When you request a quote, switch suppliers, or query a bill, the MPRN is what ties everything back to the correct meter. Without it, a new supplier cannot arrange your switch, because they have no way of telling the gas transporter which supply point to move across. It also determines which Gas Distribution Network is responsible for the pipes serving your premises, which in turn affects the transportation charges built into your unit rates. For businesses with multiple sites, keeping an accurate record of the MPRN for each property is essential, since it is the only reliable way to make sure the right contract is applied to the right meter.

Where to find my MPRN?

Unlike MPANs, MPRNs are sometimes stamped onto the meter itself, so if this is the case for you, you can find your MPRN on your gas meter. If your MPRN is not stamped onto your gas meter, it can be found on your most recent gas bill. If you still can’t find your MPRN number,visit this website and enter your postcode and address.

How is an MPRN different from an MPAN?

The two numbers do the same job for different fuels. An MPAN (Meter Point Administration Number) identifies your electricity supply, while an MPRN identifies your gas supply. The easiest way to tell them apart is by their format. An MPAN is longer and includes a distinctive grid of numbers, sometimes referred to as the supply number, and it always contains 21 digits arranged in rows. An MPRN, by contrast, is a single string of six to ten digits with no letters and no grid layout. If a premises uses both gas and electricity, it will have one of each, and you should always quote the correct number for the correct fuel when speaking to a supplier or broker. Confusing the two is one of the most common causes of delayed switches.

FAQs:

Is a gas meter serial number the same as an MPRN?

Is a gas meter serial number the same as an MPRN? Your Meter Serial Number (MSN) is a mix of numbers and letters that identifies the meter. It is typically near the barcode and is 9 to 12 digits long on standard meters. For gas meters, your MSN will usually start with an L. Electricity meters typically begin with an F. If you have a smart meter, it will end with an M. The key distinction is that the MPRN identifies the supply point, which stays fixed to the property, whereas the MSN identifies the physical piece of equipment. If your meter is ever replaced, the serial number will change but the MPRN will not.

Will my MPAN or MPRN change when I switch energy suppliers?

No, as long as you aren’t relocating, your MPAN / MPRN will remain the same. However, the MPAN / MPRN is fixed to the address, so if you move premises, your MPRN and MPAN will change.

My MPAN / MPRN looks incorrect. What do I do?

Firstly, you should double check the MPAN or MPRN number you have been provided against the MPAN or MPRN on your energy bill to make sure it matches. If there is still an issue you should contact your energy supplier, they should be able to correct this for you.

What happens to my MPRN if I move premises?

Because the number belongs to the supply point rather than to you, moving to a new address means taking on the MPRN already assigned to that property. When you take over a new premises, one of the first things to do is take a meter reading and identify the MPRN so you can set up a supply contract in your business name. Leaving this too long can result in being placed on expensive out-of-contract or deemed rates by the incumbent supplier, so it is worth acting quickly. If you are vacating a property, providing a closing read against the correct MPRN protects you from being billed for gas used after you leave.

How can Purely Energy help

If you need help understanding your MPAN or MPRN, contact us on 0161 521 3400 or email us at Info@purelyenergy.co.uk for any queries. We will advise you on your next steps to ensure you can attain the lowest energy bills possible. Alternatively, get a quick quote.