The following is a list of the most frequently asked questions. If your query is not addressed here or you would like to discuss a licensing matter further, please contact the licensing team at: licensing@ofgem.gov.uk
Can I have a list of licensed companies?
A full list of the names and registered addresses of all gas and electricity licensees is available from the further resources section on the Licensing Work page.
Do I need a licence?
Some activities, whilst falling within the definition of a licensable activity given in the Acts, are exempt or eligible for an exception from the need to hold licences. Ofgem can provide some guidance on exemptions orders and exceptions but cannot under any circumstances comment on whether a person carrying on an activity or proposing to carry on an activity will require a licence. Please refer to the “Exemptions and Exceptions” page for further details and for links to the various exemptions.
How long does it take to process a licence application?
Licensing aim to process all licence applications within 10 weeks from the date an application is acknowledged by Ofgem as being duly made (complete). However, the time taken may vary depending on the quality of the application received, requests for further information or clarification by Ofgem, and the time taken by applicants to respond to such requests. Applicants are, therefore, encouraged to apply well in advance of the date they wish to commence a licensable activity.
Is a new licence or a licence transfer required if the licensees name changes?
If a company's name changes and the licensee's company registration number remains unchanged then it is still considered to be the same legal entity and no new licence or transfer of licence is required. If a licensee's company registration number changes as a result of amongst other things, a merger or a restructuring then it is a different company and an application for transfer of licence or a new licence application will have to be made.
We no longer wish to retain our licence. How do we give it up?
A licensee that no longer wishes to retain its licence may apply to the Authority to have the licence revoked. See the “Revocations” page for further information.
Contact us
If the information you require is not covered here or if you have a query that you wish to discuss further please contact the licensing team at: licensing@ofgem.gov.uk