---
title: What Is an MPAN? Your Electricity Meter Number Explained
description: What an MPAN is, where to find it on your business electricity bill, what the numbers mean and why you need it to switch supplier.
---

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 Oct 16, 2026, 6:27:47 PM

# What Is an MPAN? Your Electricity Meter Number Explained

[Peter Hallwood](https://utilitiesgroup.co.uk/blog/author/peter-hallwood)

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An MPAN (Meter Point Administration Number) is the unique reference for your electricity supply point. Every business electricity meter in Great Britain has one. You'll need it to switch supplier, get a quote or sort out a billing problem.

## Where to find your MPAN

- **On your electricity bill.** It's usually shown as a box of numbers with an "S" at the start, often on the first or second page.
- **From your supplier.** Ask them and they'll give it to you.
- **From your local electricity network operator.** They can look it up from your address.

Your MPAN is linked to the supply point, not the meter itself. If the meter is replaced, the MPAN usually stays the same.

## What the numbers mean

The full MPAN has 21 digits, split into a top line and a bottom line.

### The top line (supplementary data)

- **Profile class (2 digits).** The type of customer and meter. 01 and 02 are domestic. 03 to 08 are non-domestic. 00 means a half-hourly meter.
- **Meter time-switch code (3 digits).** How many rates the meter has and when they switch, such as day and night.
- **Line loss factor class (3 digits).** Used to work out the distribution charges for your connection.

### The bottom line (core MPAN, 13 digits)

- **Distributor ID (2 digits).** Which regional network operator your supply is connected to.
- **Unique identifier (10 digits).** Your specific supply point.
- **Check digit (1 digit).** Used to confirm the number is valid.

When a supplier or broker asks for your MPAN, they usually mean the 13-digit core number.

## Why your MPAN matters

- **Getting quotes.** Suppliers use it to see your meter type and network area, which affect your price.
- **Switching supplier.** It makes sure the right supply point is transferred.
- **Checking your bill.** If the profile class or meter code is wrong, you could be on the wrong tariff.
- **Multi-site businesses.** It's the easiest way to keep track of each site's supply.

## MPAN vs MPRN

An MPAN is for electricity. Your gas supply has a different number, the MPRN (Meter Point Reference Number), which is usually 6 to 10 digits long.

## Frequently asked questions

### Does my MPAN change if I switch supplier?

No. It stays with the supply point, whoever your supplier is.

### Can I have more than one MPAN?

Yes. Some premises have more than one electricity supply, such as a separate supply for a flat above a shop or pub, each with its own MPAN.

### What does a profile class of 00 mean?

It means you have a half-hourly meter, which records usage every 30 minutes. These are common for larger users.

## Need a quote?

Send us a recent bill and we'll find your MPAN and usage for you, then compare 15+ suppliers. If you don't have a bill, we can get the details from your supplier with a [letter of authority](https://utilitiesgroup.co.uk/blog/what-is-a-letter-of-authority-loa-in-business-energy). [Get a business energy quote](https://utilitiesgroup.co.uk/) or call [0151 541 6767](tel:01515416767).

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---

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