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Ofgem confirms successful switching service to stay with DCC

Ofgem has confirmed that the Central Switching Service will remain within the DCC's remit.
An image of an in-home display on a kitchen countertop.

The number of UK households switching energy supplier reached a three-year peak in October 2024,  marking a return to pre-energy crisis levels. Maintaining a competitive energy market which can deliver cost savings for consumers facing tough choices to keep warm, safe and healthy in their homes, relies on their being able to switch supplier as quickly and reliably as possible.

Since 2022, the Central Switching Service (CSS), built and operated by the DCC, has successfully reduced the time to switch energy supplier from three weeks to a matter of days, driving competition and innovation in the energy market, while delivering efficiencies for energy consumers and suppliers alike. 

Following a consultation which formed part of a review of DCC’s future licence arrangements, we are really pleased that Ofgem have today announced that the switching service will remain part of DCC’s licence obligations.  

This decision is a clear reflection of our service to date, which has delivered 27.5m successful switches and is available 99.9% of the time.

We look forward to working collaboratively with RECCo, Ofgem and industry stakeholders to deliver further improvements to the switching service.

Penny Brown, Chief Operating Officer, said: “We’re delighted that Ofgem has recognised the outstanding performance of the DCC Switching Service and this is a great recognition of the efforts of the DCC Switching teams and our suppliers who have consistently delivered strong results. This decision will allow us to focus on making switching even more efficient, delivering further value for our customers and households across Britain.”

Siobhan Stanger, Chief Licence Renewal Officer, said: “The decision for the Central Switching Service to remain with DCC has been made following an extensive consultation with our customers, suppliers and industry bodies. I believe this is the right decision for industry and energy consumers and will allow us to deliver on our ambitions of making Britain more connected so we can all lead smarter, greener lives.”  

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