Switching to Octopus Energy is one of the easiest ways to save money on your energy bills. This guide walks you through the entire process step by step, from clicking the referral link to receiving your £50 credit.
What You'll Need Before You Start
Before you begin, gather the following information to make the switch as smooth as possible:
- Your address including postcode
- A recent energy bill (helpful but not essential)
- Bank details for setting up Direct Debit
- An email address for your account
- Your current energy usage (Octopus can estimate this if you don't know)
Important: Use a Referral Link First
To get your £50 credit, you must click a referral link before starting the sign up process. You cannot add a referral code afterwards, and you cannot type the code manually on the Octopus website.
Step 1: Click the Referral Link
Start by clicking a referral link. This ensures the £50 credit is automatically tracked and will be applied to your account once your switch completes.
Step 2: Get a Quote
After clicking the link, you'll be taken to the Octopus Energy website. Enter your postcode to see available tariffs and get a personalised quote. You can choose between:
- Flexible Octopus — Variable rate that follows the price cap (but Octopus charges less than the cap)
- Fixed tariffs — Lock in your rate for 12 months with no exit fees
- Smart tariffs — Special rates for EV owners, heat pump users, and solar panel owners
Step 3: Complete the Sign Up Form
Fill in your details including your name, address, and contact information. You'll also need to set up a Direct Debit for your monthly payments. The whole process takes about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Octopus Handles the Rest
Once you've submitted your application, Octopus Energy takes care of everything else. They will:
- Contact your current supplier on your behalf
- Arrange the switch date (usually within 2 to 3 weeks)
- Send you confirmation emails with your account details
- Ensure your energy supply continues without interruption
Step 5: Receive Your £50 Credit
After your switch completes and your first Direct Debit payment is processed, the £50 credit will be automatically added to your account. This typically happens 4 to 6 weeks after you sign up.
What Happens to My Old Supplier?
You don't need to contact your old supplier. Octopus handles all communication. Your old supplier will send you a final bill, and if you're in credit, they must refund you within 10 working days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I lose supply during the switch?
No, your gas and electricity will continue without interruption. The switch happens behind the scenes.
Can I switch if I'm renting?
Yes, if you pay the energy bills directly. If your landlord pays and includes energy in your rent, they would need to switch.
What if I'm in a fixed contract with my current supplier?
Check if you have exit fees. Even with fees, switching might still save you money overall, especially with the £50 credit.
Do I need a smart meter?
No, but Octopus offers free smart meter installation which can unlock additional tariffs and savings.
Ready to Switch?
Use referral code spiky-eel-111 and get £50 credited to your account.
Get £50 Credit Now →