Point-of-use identifier

The point-of-use identifier (POU) is essential when signing a new electricity contract — without it the new company doesn't know where to deliver the electricity. You'll find it on your current bill under "Käyttöpaikka" (site), or by logging into your grid company's customer portal.

The POU is issued by the local grid company (e.g. Caruna, Helen Sähköverkko, Tampereen Sähköverkko). It stays the same when you switch retailers — you don't need to contact the grid company when comparing.

If you move to a new home, the POU changes. The new home's POU may appear in the rental contract, from the housing manager or on the previous resident's final bill. If you can't find it, the new company can usually look it up by address.

Where to find your point-of-use identifier?

Three places:

1. Current electricity bill — typically on the first page under "Käyttöpaikka" or "KPT". The number is 12–18 digits.

2. Grid company portal — log into your local grid company (Caruna, Helen Sähköverkko, Vantaan Energia Sähköverkot, Elenia, etc.) and check profile details.

3. Rental agreement or housing manager — if you just moved, ask the previous resident, landlord or housing manager.

If you cannot find it, the new retailer can often look it up by address.

The identifier when signing a new contract

When signing a new contract you do not need to contact your current retailer — the new company handles termination once you provide the point-of-use identifier. The process takes about 2 weeks (notice period on the old contract).

The switch is completely uninterrupted from a delivery standpoint — electricity does not stop, the meter stays the same. You will only notice the final bill from the old retailer and the first bill from the new one.

The identifier when moving home

The point-of-use identifier is tied to the address, not to you as a person. When you move, you get a new POU for the new address.

Report the move to your old retailer and give the new address + its POU in the new contract. If you cannot find the new site's POU, the retailer's customer service can usually find it by address.