A switch for a switching unit for energy supply and distribution includes a first connection and a second connection, each with a cylindrical bolt. The bolts are axially adjacent one another and spaced apart. An annular sleeve with an inner diameter larger than the diameter of the bolts, is arranged in such a way that it can be axially displaced on the bolt of the first connection, and partially on the bolt of the second connection. At least a first contact element is arranged between the surface of the bolt of the first connection and the inner surface of the annular sleeve. At least a second contact element is arranged and constructed in such a way that it can be positioned between the surface of the bolt of the second connection and the inner surface of the annular sleeve. The switch has an annular third connection, the inner diameter of which is greater than an outer diameter of the annular sleeve, and which is arranged such that the sleeve can be shifted between the bolts of the first connection and the annular third connection. At least a third contact element is arranged and constructed in such a way that it can be positioned between the inner surface of the annular third connection and the outer surface of the annular sleeve.