Meters need to be equipped with a unique reference to allow the collection of bills.
MPAN (Meter Point Administration Number) sometimes called an “Electricity Supply Number” is a unique 12-digit number that identifies the specific electricity supply point for a property in the UK. It’s used by electricity suppliers and network operators to ensure energy is correctly tracked and billed.
DNO (Distribution Network operator)
Is a company that owns and manages the local infrastructurelike power lines, underground cables, and substations that deliver electricity to homes and businesses. Unlike your energy supplier, which sends your bill, the DNO is responsible for maintaining the physical network, fixing power outages, and handling new connections.
What an MPAN number does.
It tells energy companies exactly where electricity is delivered, similar to an address for your power connection.
It will appear on your electricity bill and will usually be found in a box labelled “MPAN” or “Supply Number,” typically in the bottom section of your bill.
This number is issued by your local Distribution Network Operator (DNO)
Each DNO manages supply points in its region.
What is a DNO?
Across the UK, the electricity network is separated into individual regional areas, with each regional electricity grid controlled by the local Distribution Network Operator (DNO). Each regional grid is connected to the main National Grid.
Within their respective areas, each DNO controls and operates substations that transmit electrical power to all users, including homes and businesses. When we generate power through solar, or we are taking from the network with the likes of heat pumps, the DNO needs to make sure we are not sucking too much power or pushing too much power back down the power lines.
Who are the UK’s DNOs?
Energy Networks Association, highlights how the UK’s electricity network is divided. The seven DNOs are as follows: