On 16 April 2026, the European Commission has adopted new implementing rules that will significantly speed up the process of switching electricity suppliers across the EU (“Regulation“). By the end of 2026, the technical “back‑office” steps needed to change supplier — such as registering a new provider and exchanging customer data — will have to be completed within 24 hours. The Regulation is available at this link.

The new Regulation focuses on removing practical and administrative barriers that have traditionally slowed down supplier switching. Faster processing is expected to make electricity markets more responsive and accessible, allowing consumers to react more quickly to changing prices and market conditions. By shortening switching times, the Commission aims to make it easier for consumers to move to better electricity deals, including flexible or dynamic tariffs and services such as demand response.

The measure is also expected to boost competition and innovation in retail electricity markets and help consumers better manage their energy costs, particularly during periods of price volatility.