Switching only takes a few minutes, and you only need a few details to hand.

Here’s how:

1 Firstly, head to an accredited price comparison website like Switcher.ie. Having a recent copy of your gas and electricity bills, and the GPRN and MPRN details, which are listed on these bills, will come in handy as you go through the process.

2 Then you just need to enter some information about your current energy use, which energy supplier you’re with, and how you pay your bills. If you don’t know your consumption, you can use the national average as a guide, but using the actual usage will allow you to make the most accurate supplier comparison and give you a clearer idea how much you can save.

3 You’ll then get a list of energy tariffs, including information on the supplier and how much you’ll save. You can go through the details of each supplier and plan, and then choose the best option available for you.

4 Once you choose the plan, you simply need to fill in an online application form – including information like your name and address, and your current meter reading. It should take no more than five minutes.

5 Once your new supplier receives your application form, they’ll confirm this and will handle the switch with your old supplier.

6 You’ll receive a final bill from your old supplier, which you’ll need to pay to close your account. You should also ensure you cancel all direct debits at the same time. Apart from the supplier and tariff being different, nothing else will change and there won’t be an interruption in supply. Once you switch, take note of the date and set a reminder to shop around again next year when you’re out of contract. This is how you can ensure you’re paying the cheapest rate every year.