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Change sub meter into main meter

  • September 5, 2024
  • 6 replies
  • 537 views
A
New Member**

We have a sub-meter (where we are charged an arbitrary % of total bill of the landlord) which we wish to change to a main meter so that we have control over our usage and charges

Question 1
Is it possible to ‘convert’ the sub-meter into a main meter? Not sure, we have a link to the source of electricity to the building
Question 2
If so, how do we go about it?
Question 3
If not, how do we get a main meter installed?

Question 4
Is someone able to recommend an engineer who could help us navigate this process as we are not technical minded?
Thank you
Regards
AT

Best answer by Blastoise186

Updated on 02/07/25 by Ben_OVO

You can find out who your District Network Operator (DNO) is here, and you can check the guides below to find out which type of jobs are covered by the DNO, and by your energy supplier 👇

 

 

Hi @at7816 ,

I’m afraid it’s a pretty complicated process. If you could show us how things are set up now, we might be able to give more accurate advice.

Long story short, the existing meter would have to come out - you can’t re-use it as a Supplier would have to equip you with a new one.

Long answer (which I’ll condense for the purposes of this reply):

You need to get a brand NEW connection installed which will require landlord consent. Your DNO would need to initiate that part, so that you get an MPAN that a Supplier can attach a meter to and then a local electrician would need to move the other side of the wiring over from the existing Sub-Meter to your new Supply Meter. The only engineers authorised to do these two stages are the DNO and Energy Supplier - you cannot use anyone else.

It’s FAR more complicated than that, but I don’t want to overwhelm you at this stage without your consent.

Let me know if you’d like more details or have any questions.

A

6 replies

Blastoise186
Plan Zero Hero
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  • Blastoise186Plan Zero Hero
  • Plan Zero Hero
  • Solved
  • September 5, 2024

Updated on 02/07/25 by Ben_OVO

You can find out who your District Network Operator (DNO) is here, and you can check the guides below to find out which type of jobs are covered by the DNO, and by your energy supplier 👇

 

 

Hi @at7816 ,

I’m afraid it’s a pretty complicated process. If you could show us how things are set up now, we might be able to give more accurate advice.

Long story short, the existing meter would have to come out - you can’t re-use it as a Supplier would have to equip you with a new one.

Long answer (which I’ll condense for the purposes of this reply):

You need to get a brand NEW connection installed which will require landlord consent. Your DNO would need to initiate that part, so that you get an MPAN that a Supplier can attach a meter to and then a local electrician would need to move the other side of the wiring over from the existing Sub-Meter to your new Supply Meter. The only engineers authorised to do these two stages are the DNO and Energy Supplier - you cannot use anyone else.

It’s FAR more complicated than that, but I don’t want to overwhelm you at this stage without your consent.

Let me know if you’d like more details or have any questions.

Securing energy by zapping security bugs... For that is The Blastoise Way! Remember, I'm just like you - AI Powered Evil Geniuses aren't Staff!
Chris_OVO
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  • sue555
  • Carbon Cutter*
  • August 21, 2025

Hi

Our business is in the same position as the original poster of this query. We do have the landlord’s consent to explore getting our own meter installed rather than having a sub meter that they have control of  what are my first steps and does anyone have a rough idea of costs?

many thanks

Blastoise186
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  • Blastoise186Plan Zero Hero
  • Plan Zero Hero
  • August 21, 2025

Howdy ​@sue555 !

Just a heads up, if you’re after a business supply you won’t be able to get one from OVO as OVO only offers domestic supplies - you’d need to find a business supplier for that use case. You’re absolutely welcome to ask for the advice you’re after via the OVO Forum though! :)

Generally, the first step will be to get a new connection set up with the DNO, so that an energy supplier can attach a meter to it and get an account going. I can’t provide costs as it’s very much on a case-by-case quote basis.

If you’re OK with telling us which region/county you’re in, I can get the details you need to get the ball rolling.

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Chris_OVO
Abby_OVO
Community Manager
  • Abby_OVO
  • Community Manager
  • August 22, 2025

Hey ​@sue555 

 

I’m glad to see Blastoise186 has already stopped by with some helpful advice and has let you know that OVO don’t offer business supplies - only domestic.

 

Hopefully you’ll be able to find a suitable supplier for your business. Our community are here to help you get to the bottom of things too so pop back on this thread if you need further help!

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  • sue555
  • Carbon Cutter*
  • August 22, 2025

Hi Blastoise186

Thanks for replying. My home energy is with OVO so I decided to start here! 

The business is in Poulton Le fylde in Lancashire. Any advice to get started is much appreciated.

 

Chris_OVO
Blastoise186
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  • Blastoise186Plan Zero Hero
  • Plan Zero Hero
  • August 22, 2025

Thanks! That helps a ton!

For this one, check out https://www.enwl.co.uk/get-connected/ and use the tools there to get a new connection application spun up. With this done, you’ll get an MPAN as part of the process. Pass the MPAN onto any business electricity supplier of your choice and they can hook up a meter to it and get your account going. From there, a private electrician of your choosing can move your load away from the sub-meter and over to the new supply meter.

It’s a bit more complex than that, but this should get you going.

Let me know if you get stuck!

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