What is an EAN code? And what is it for?

An EAN code is a unique combination of figures used to identify an object on the basis of a European system ('EAN' stands for 'European Article Numbering').

When you go shopping, you can see these figures in the bar code. This means that products can be identified without error.

EAN codes are also used to identify gas or electricity supply points. For this purpose they have 18 figures. In Brussels, the EAN codes for gas and electricity meters start with the figures 5414489. These codes must be given in all correspondence with your energy supplier or network operator.

The EAN code is linked to a place and not a person.

There is a unique, 18-figure EAN code for each supply point and for each form of energy. So if you are a customer for electricity and for natural gas, you will have two EAN codes. To find out your codes, simply consult your energy bill or call Sibelga.

The EAN code is not the same as the meter number: the EAN code identifies a supply point, whereas the meter number identifies an appliance, i.e. the meter.

A new meter has a different number than the one it replaces. However, the EAN code does not change, given that the supply point remains the same. The EAN code can only change if the gas or electricity installation is completely renewed. In that case, Sibelga will give you the new number.

EAN codes: useful if you move house.

• These codes are not linked to you but to the supply point at a specific address. So they are not customer numbers. When you move house, you do not take these codes with you, as you do a registration number when you buy another car.
   
• As the EAN codes remain linked to the supply points, you have to ask the previous occupier of your new home to let you have the relevant EAN codes (see also question: What do I have to do if I move house?). You, in turn, also have to pass on the EAN codes of your old house or apartment to the new occupier. In fact, everyone has to give their new EAN codes to their energy supplier.