Access to and use of energy services
Electricity connection
In the EU you have the right to have your home connected to the local electricity network and be supplied with electricity (the same does not apply to gas). The connection is provided by the network operator designated to operate the energy infrastructure in your local area (each local network has only one designated operator).
To find out exactly what the terms, conditions and tariffs for such connections are, check with your National Regulatory Authority.
This body also has to monitor that the local network operators ensure that the local infrastructures function properly.
Sample story
You have the right to an electricity connection
Marian moved to a remote part of the Romanian countryside and wanted to get an electricity connection for his new house there. After several companies had told him their networks didn't cover his area, he finally found out through the National Regulatory Authority who the service provider was in Romania. He contacted this company, which connected him to the electricity network.
Vulnerable consumers
If you are in a vulnerable situation (for example, if you don't have adequate infrastructure or you can't pay your energy bills) you cannot be disconnected from the electricity network, and you may be entitled to benefits to ensure you get the necessary electricity supply. The Single Point of Contact in the country where you live will explain to you when and/or if you are entitled to such support and what measures have been taken to help you.
Choice of energy supplier
In the EU you are free to choose your energy supplier from the full range of electricity or gas suppliers offering their services in your area.
You can choose an electricity or gas supplier registered in another EU country, provided that the supplier also offers services in your area and agrees a contract with you.
Warning
There is a distinct difference between an energy supplier and a network operator. You can choose the supplier but not the network operator in your area. The network operator cannot itself offer energy supplies. Sometimes the network operator is part of a larger company which does offer energy supplies. However in such a case, the network operator must have a separate visual identity in order not to create confusion with the separate company offering the supplies.
Switching energy supplier
If you decide to change your gas or electricity supplier you will not be charged for the change. The network operator in your area must make the change within 3 weeks, provided you respect the terms and conditions of the original contract (e.g. notice period, agreed minimum duration of the contract). Suppliers are not allowed to impose disproportionate obligations that would prevent consumers from switching.
No later than 6 weeks after you switch, you should receive the final closure statement/bill from your previous supplier.