Tag: Switch energy suppliers

In some cases, prepayment meters will be the best payment option for those living in a property. However, this type of tariff is generally more expensive than both standard fixed and variable rate deals. When comparing energy plans you will realise there are also fewer energy providers that offer prepayment deals so you won’t have as much choice when it comes to picking a supplier. This means it’s essential that you ensure a prepayment tariff is right for you. Keep reading on to find out more.

Also, our experts are very informed about prepayment plans and are ready to help you. Look no further! Just give us a call on the number at the top of the screen.

How do prepayment meters work?

If you have a prepayment meter for your gas, electricity or both, you’ll need to pay for your energy before you use it. You’ll do this by topping up your account with credit. This credit will be added to your meter, allowing you to use the amount of gas or electricity you’ve paid for.

There are a number of ways to top up a prepayment meter. You can generally top up at the Post Office or by going to a shop with a PayPoint or PayZone sticker in the window. If you have a card or key for your meter, you may need to take this with you when you top up. You can also call your provider to top up over the phone.

Some energy providers let you top up online or via their app. This can be a more convenient option if you live a long way from your nearest top up point or if you have trouble leaving the house.

If you have a smart meter, your credit will be added automatically. If you have a card or key for your meter, you’ll need to insert this into your meter to see your credit increase.

Where can you top up your prepayment meter?

• Post Office
• PayPoint
• PayZone
• Over the phone
• Online
• Via the app

What does a prepayment meter look like?

If you’ve just moved into a new property and aren’t sure if you have a prepayment meter, you can generally work it out just by looking at the device. Prepayment meters have a lot more going on than standard gas and electricity meters.

Most prepayment meters have a card slot or a place where you need to insert a key in order to check your credit and top up your account. There will also be a number of buttons on the front of the meter. These allow you to navigate through a variety of options on the meter’s menu. Use these buttons to find out how much credit you have remaining, how much energy you’ve used and the price you pay for each unit of energy.

If you have a prepayment meter, it’s well worth getting familiar with these different options as it will allow you to monitor your spending and energy consumption more accurately. In some cases, you may need to insert your card or key to access different parts of the meter’s menu.

How to take a prepayment meter reading?

Occasionally, your energy supplier might ask you to supply them with a reading from your prepayment meter. This reading will give them an idea of your energy usage and help make your service more efficient.

Different meters have different displays, so you’ll need to find out how your specific meter works before taking a reading. In most cases, you’ll need to press the red or blue button on the front of your meter in order to access the information. Most gas meters are fitted with red buttons and most electricity meters with blue buttons, though this can vary between prepayment meters. If you have a card or key meter, you’ll probably need to insert your card or key first to wake up the meter.

You may need to press the blue or red but multiple times in order to find the right screen. If you’re reading an electricity meter, look out for a long line of numbers followed by kWh. This will be your energy reading. If you’re reading a gas meter, the long line of numbers will be followed by M3. If you are on an Economy 7 tariff – and so pay different rates at night and during the day – your meter readings may be on two different screens.

Why does my home have a prepayment meter?

A prepayment tariff is a specific kind of energy tariff that is well suited for some households. They are generally installed in homes where the residents have fallen behind on energy payments and struggled to repay the debt. By paying for energy in advance, households can’t fall into arrears and build up significant debt.

If you have to switch to a prepayment meter because you're in debt to your energy supplier, you will pay off your debt a little at a time while paying for the gas and electricity you use. This means the cost of your energy will be higher until you’ve paid back your supplier.

In some cases, landlords install prepayment meters in their properties in order to avoid tenants running into debt. If you move into a property with a prepayment meter and you don’t think this type of tariff is right for you, you can ask your energy supplier to change it to a standard meter.

Your landlord can’t stop you from changing your prepayment meter to a standard credit meter. However, you’ll be liable to pay any associated costs and your landlord can insist that you change the meter back when you move out.

How much does your energy cost with a prepayment meter?

You can find the 3 cheapest prepayment electricity tariffs below:

Cheapest Prepayment E7 Tariff

For an E7 tariff, you can find the three cheapest options below:

Prepayment meters: The pros and cons

Prepayment meters, though great for some households, aren’t suitable for everyone. One of the main issues with prepayment meters is that they’re a lot more expensive than standard energy tariffs. This means you’ll end up paying over the odds for your gas and electricity.

Weighing up the pros and cons of a prepayment meter should help you decide if this type of tariff is right for you.
Pros:

• Prepayment meters can help you to manage your debt
• Prepayment meters can make it easier to keep an eye on your energy usages
• Prepayment meters prevent you going into significant debt to your energy supplier

Cons:

1. Above average costs for your gas and electricity
2. You won’t have access to the best energy deals on the market
3. Topping up a prepayment meter can be inconvenient, especially if you live a long way from the shops
4. If you’re unable to top up, your gas and electricity may be temporarily cut off
5. If you have an older prepayment meter, prices will need to be updated manually when rates go up or down. This can take months, leaving you paying the old rate indefinitely

Can I switch from a prepayment meter to a standard meter?

Prepayment meters are definitely not suitable for everyone. If having your gas or electricity temporarily cut off would cause you difficulty, this probably isn’t the right option for you. For example, if you have:

• A disability
• Young children
• Medical equipment that relies on electricity
• A long term medical condition

A temporarily losing power could be a real inconvenience. If you fall into one of these categories, want access to the best energy deals on the market or simply don’t want the inconvenience of a prepayment meter, you may want to consider switching to a credit meter.

Credit meters are standard gas and electricity meters. If you have a credit meter you’ll pay for the gas and electricity you use at the end of every month. If you have a credit meter, you’ll be able to shop around different energy suppliers in order to find the best deal. This can help you save a significant amount on your household energy bills.

If you want to change to a standard credit meter, the first thing you need to do is get in touch with your energy supplier. If you’re not currently in debt to your energy supplier, there shouldn’t be any reason for them to stop you switching. You’ll simply need to arrange a time for an engineer to come to your property to swap your prepayment meter for a new one.

However, if you are currently in debt to your energy provider, you probably won’t be able to switch. You’ll need to finish repaying your current debt before you can ask them to install a standard credit meter.

Once you have your new meter, you’ll be free to shop around for a better energy deal. Use our Switch Plan to find the tariff that’s right for you.
0330 818 6223

Different types of prepayment meter

Key and card meters

Most gas and electricity prepayment meters require a key or card to be inserted into the device in order to access information and add credit. If you have a smart card reader, your credit should automatically top up once you’ve added money to your account.

Smart prepayment meters

Smart prepayment meters are the next generation of prepayment meter. They have a prepayment function that can be switched on and off by your supplier. This means you won’t have to have a new meter installed when you want to switch between tariffs.

In most cases, smart meters can be topped up online or via an app. This makes them a lot more convenient than other types of prepayment meter. Smart prepayment meters aren’t yet widely available. However, they’re likely to be rolled out soon, so get in touch with your supplier if you think a smart meter could benefit you.

Read More:

• Fixed energy tariffs
• Variable energy tariff
• Duel fuel
• Economy 7

There’s no doubt about it. The future of the UK energy industry is renewable. As of Q1 of 2020, renewables now make up over 52% of our national energy fuel mix, with solar, wind, biomass and hydroelectricity combining to generate the majority of our country’s energy. Nonetheless, there are still many eco-conscious energy consumers who are keen to reduce their reliance on energy from the National Grid and generate their own renewable energy. But not everyone likes the idea of installing solar panels, wind turbines or solar water heaters on their roof. Could kinetic floor tiles be the new innovation that brings renewable off-grid energy to more UK homes?

What are kinetic floor tiles?

Kinetic floor tiles were invented in 2008 by Pavegen. They’re not only a great renewable energy source, they’re also sustainably manufactured, too. Each floor tile is made from 95% recycled rubber tyres. When they are stepped on, they use the kinetic energy from the movement created to generate energy, with between 2 and 8 watts of energy generated throughout the course of the footstep.

Not only can kinetic floor tiles harvest energy, they can harvest data too! Every tile boasts unique wireless communications technology too, using just 1% of power generated to transmit data. Kinetic floor tiles can keep a log of how many footfalls it receives and how much energy is generated as a result.

This data is extremely useful for everyone from businesses to city officials. This data can be used to calculate how much foot traffic is likely to pass through an area, and how much energy this is likely to generate at any given time. So the owners of kinetic floor tiles can make informed decisions about where and how that energy is best put to use.

How do kinetic floor tiles work?

Kinetic tiles work leverage the scientific principle of piezoelectricity to translate the energy of a footfall into electrical energy. The tiles are flexible underfoot and feel much like astroturf, or walking in a children’s play area. They only give way by about 5mm when stepped on, but even this small movement is enough to generate energy.

When the tile is stepped on, mechanical pressure is generated and the tile transforms this into an electrical current. The principle of piezoelectricity is nothing new. It was actually discovered in the Victorian era discovery by Jacques and Pierre Curie. This principle has been incorporated into the design of the kinetic energy recovery systems employed by buses and racing cars. However, it is only very recently that this principle was applied to flooring.

Since their first prototype piezoelectric kinetic tile was created in 2008, Pavegen have refined the design, with new triangular steps generating more energy per footfall.

Where do kinetic tiles collect energy?

Believe it or not, kinetic floor tiles have been generating energy in strategic locations for years now. They have mostly been used in special sporting events that generate a great deal of footfall. Here are some of the most prominent large scale events astound the world at which kinetic tiles have generated energy:

• At the London 2012 Olympics, 12 tiles were installed along the walking route to the Olympic Park. Between them, they generated 72 million joules of energy.
• At the 2013 Paris marathon, 40,000 runners generated 7kWh between them as they passed the finish line.
• For Berlin’s 2017 Festival of Lights Pavegen worked with the city to create an installation that used footsteps to power a dazzling synchronised lighting display spanning 26-square metres. Over a hundred thousand joules of energy were generated in the first 3 days alone.
• Combined with solar panels, kinetic floor tiles are used to light two football stadia— one in Brazil, and one in Nigeria.
• Club Watt in Amsterdam uses a kinetic dance floor to generate energy.
• Kinetic floor panels are also used to light a hallway in Heathrow airport.
• Pavegen’s new triangular tiles are also at work in London’s Bird Street, now dubbed "the world’s first smart street". These tiles generate an estimated 20 times more energy than their predecessors. The energy generated creates a pleasant atmosphere of birdsong by day, and lighting by night. Take a look at this article to find out more.

How much energy can kinetic tiles generate?

On average, as a kinetic floor tile flexes, around 8 watts of kinetic energy is generated over the duration of the footstep. Every single step can generate approximately 3 joules of usable energy. That’s enough to light a LED streetlamp for around 30 seconds. The more people walk through any given area, the more potential energy there is to be exploited.

How long do kinetic floor tiles last?

Kinetic floor tiles are still in their relative infancy and don’t have quite the same robust lifespan as other renewable energy sources like solar panels or wind turbines. At present, kinetic floor tiles have a usable lifespan of around 5 years. However, as the technology evolves, there’s certainly scope for more robust and longer-lasting tiles.

Are kinetic floor tiles affordable?

The cost of kinetic floor tiles has come down enormously in recent years. In their infancy, kinetic floor tiles came with a hefty price tag of £1,700 per square foot. Making them extremely impractical for domestic use. By 2018, kinetic floor tiles had come down to around £100 per square foot, and by 2020 they dropped even further in price to approximately £80 per square foot. However, this is still highly impractical for all but the wealthiest households.

Outfitting an average-sized kitchen (the room that often sees the most footfall in the home) with kinetic floor tiles would cost around £6,000. Even a large family’s footfall would struggle to get a meaningful return on such an investment.

Nonetheless, as the technology grows more commonplace, Pavegen believes that kinetic floor tiles will eventually reach cost parity with the current price of regular floor tiles. By the end of the 2020s, it may be possible to outfit a living space with kinetic floor tiles for as little as £5 per square foot.

Because they have yet to become viable for household use, kinetic floor tiles are not eligible for the Green Homes Grant. However, there’s every possibility that they may become eligible as this nascent market grows.

We can help you to combine renewables with the right energy tariffs!

Kinetic floor tiles have a way to go before they’re affordable enough to make their way into households. Even if Pavegen gets their way and is able to bring the cost of kinetic floor tiles down to match regular floor tiles, the amount of energy they can generate will pale in comparison to that of a solar panel or domestic wind turbine. They are likely to be more practical for schools, offices and public spaces that attract far more footfall than the average family home.

But that doesn’t mean your household can’t enjoy cheaper, more renewable energy. It’s just a case of finding the right supplier and tariff for your needs.

That’s where we come in!

We can scour the market to find you the best value tariffs that also use 100% renewable electricity. We can even help to find you tariffs that use renewable or carbon-offset gas. If you decide to generate your own energy, we can also find you the suppliers with the best Feed in Tariffs and Smart Export Guarantees. We can even manage your switch from end-to-end, bringing you cheaper, greener energy without headaches or hassle.

If you like the sound of that, get in touch with us today on 0330 818 6223. We’re available from 8.30 am to 5.30 pm.

Would you like to know more about generating electricity? Great!
Check out these related articles:

• Feed in tariff
• Smart Export Guarantee
• Living off the grid
• Are solar panels worth it?

If you don’t know how much energy you use at the moment, or how much your energy company charges for each kWh you use, calculating the cost of your energy is crucial. Here, we take a closer look at how you can calculate the kWh cost to your home and how you can measure the amount of energy your household is really consuming.

How to calculate kWh cost?

The easiest way to work out how much you pay for each kWh of energy you use is to look at your monthly bill. This should clearly list the cost of each kWh as well as the other fees charged by your energy company.

If you’re on a fixed rate tariff, the amount you pay for each kWh should stay the same for the duration of your contract. This means that, although your energy bill will go up and down depending on your monthly usage, the unit price will stay the same. This can make it easier to budget and keep control of your finances.

If you’ve opted for a variable rate, the amount you pay for a kWh of electricity will fluctuate. If your energy provider doesn’t list the price of a kWh on your bill, you can calculate the cost of a kWh by dividing the amount you’ve been charged by the number of kWh you’ve used – after taking off any standing charges and fees.

Calculating the cost of your kWh energy consumption

As well as checking the average energy price you pay for a kWh, it’s important to take a look at your appliances to see how much energy they consume. Most household appliances will list their wattage in the instructions or on a label of the device. You can use this information to calculate the kWh cost of the appliance.

A kWh is the amount of energy you would use if you kept a 1,000 watt appliance on for an hour. So if you have a 1,000 watt electric radiator, it will cost you 1 kWh for every hour it’s switched on. However, if you have a 500 watt vacuum clean, it would take you two hours to consume 1 kWh of energy.
Some of the most energy-hungry appliances found in the home are:

• Central heating
• Fridge freezer
• Tumble dryer
• Washing machine
• Oven
• Kettle
• Toaster

Who is the cheapest energy supplier?

To give you a better sense of the prices of energy tariffs, we present the 3 cheapest energy tariffs in the UK. However, these depend on several factors.

However, it is possible to make some general assumptions about energy use and find the cheapest supplier for these average scenarios. Going by the average use statistics for the UK, as supplied by the regulator Ofgem, the following table shows the cheapest providers for a medium energy user in the UK.

Cheapest Energy Live Tariffs

The following offers are all available at the moment.

Is electricity expensive in UK?

Electricity in the UK is relatively expensive compared to other countries around the world. This is due to a number of factors. For a start, most of the countries with cheaper energy have plentiful supplies of oil and gas. We also pay slightly more because UK households contribute a lot towards green energy schemes and other carbon levies.

However, UK energy prices are comparable with those in other European countries. When you calculate the cost of a kWh, electricity in the UK is actually cheaper than some of our neighbours including Germany, Denmark and Ireland.

The list below shows how energy prices in the UK stack up to the rest of the world.

• Kuwait - $0.03
• Saudi Arabia - $0.05
• China - $0.08
• USA - $0.15
• France - $0.21
• UK - $0.26
• Ireland - $0.28>/li>
• Denmark - $0.33
• Germany - $0.38

How did kWh prices evolve over time?

Like all commodities, the cost of electricity fluctuates over time. While prices have dipped occasionally in recent years – most notably after the 2008 financial crisis - in general, the cost of a kWh has been steadily going up. For example, in 2004, households paid an average of 8.9p for a kWh of electricity. Just four years later in 2008, that had risen to 13.2p and by 2014, it was up to 14.5p. That’s a significant increase of 63% in just ten years.

Average annual bill per region

The cost of electricity can vary considerably depending on which region you live in. This is why energy providers always ask for your postcode before showing you the tariffs available. The table below highlights the regional price differences in dual fuel energy bills.

Here are just a few reasons why energy prices change depending on your location.

• Supply and demand – how much demand is there for electricity in your area?
• Energy generation – is electricity generated in your area?
• DNO charges – how much does your Distribution Network Operator charge your supplier for electricity in your area?

Would you like to know more about energy in the UK? Great! Here are some related articles

1. Energy consumption
2. KWh

Next steps for ESB Energy customers

Apart from the name that represents the company, nothing will change for the time being. So Energy has partnered with ESB, a stable company with long-term plans in the UK. There is no risk for So Energy and therefore all balances are safe.

Who is So Energy?

So Energy was a relatively small energy company. The main focus is on customer service and competitive tariffs. Founded in 2015, the company had more than 200,000 customers before the merger. So Energy only sells electricity tariffs that are 100% renewable and gives its customers the opportunity to have a say in where their electricity comes from.

I’m an ESB customer: Will my energy supply be interrupted?

ESB's customer base can be relieved: The energy supply will not be interrupted. From 1 December 2021, customers automatically switched from ESB Energy to So Energy. You will continue to be supplied by ESB Energy until you receive a notification letter confirming your switch.

Will my bills go up with my new supplier?

A price increase is not expected for the time being. So Energy says in a statement on the merger: "You won't notice any changes and don't need to worry. Your supply will remain the same, your bills will continue to come from us and your prices will not change as a result of the merger."

So Energy tariffs

Below you can find the cost information associated with these tariffs.

So Fixed Rate Tariffs

So has one fixed rate tariff plan. The details of which you can see below.

The pricing on this tariff can be seen here:

So Energy Economy 7 Tariffs

So Energy currently offers 1 Economy 7 plans for those who have an economy 7 meter. The only available plan is a 12 months fixed rate plan.

These tariffs have two separate unit rates, one for peak hours of consumption and another for off-peak.

Pricing on these tariffs can be seen here:

Who was ESB Energy and how did they compare to the competition?

ESB Energy was Ireland’s state energy supplier, and had generated electricity in Ireland for over 90 years. And while the name might appear fairly new to the UK energy market, they had actually had a power generating presence in Britain for 26 years, helping to grow the UK’s energy industry.

ESB Energy had the same USPs as many of the UK’s smaller green suppliers, promising renewable energy at great rates. Yet, many UK energy consumers who might be wary of smaller suppliers could consider ESB’s pedigree very reassuring. After all, many smaller suppliers in the UK offer the same green energy fuel mix and low prices. But their very affordability could make them prone to cash-flow crises that cause them to fail despite making a great impression with customers.

In this regard, ESB could have be considered the best of both worlds.

They had many of the selling points that we expect from a smaller supplier with the longevity and pedigree that we might expect from one of the "Big 6" suppliers. One of which (EDF Energy) was also state-owned, with over 80% of the company belonging to the French government.

How much did ESB Energy cost?

Compared to national averages ESB Energy was not considered to be on the cheaper side of average, however, this could depend on a number of factors such as your energy consumption or location.

ESB Energy tariffs average annual total cost compared

ESB Energy offered four tariff plans, one basic standard variable tariff plan as well as three fixed rate tariff plans. The rates themselves were competitively priced but were slightly above the national average in terms of cost.

Below you can see the average annual total cost of each of these tariff options:

ESG Energy Variable Rate Tariff Pricing

Here we can take a closer look at the pricing of ESG Energy's standard variable rate tariff:

ESG Energy Fixed Rate Tariffs Pricing

Here we will display the costs associated with each of the ESG Energy fixed rate tariffs:

ESG Energy Economy 7 Tariffs Pricing

ESG Energy also offered special electricity tariff prices for homes that use E7 meters. The costs associated with these tariff packages can be seen here:

However, according to Ofgem Guidelines, there is a 'switching window', of 49 calendar days before your fixed-term contract comes to an end. So you may switch within this period without incurring an exit fee. However, competition is so fierce that some suppliers may offer to pay your early exit fee for you if you would like to switch.

What was the ESB Energy fuel mix?

More and more UK consumers are coming to demand renewability from their energy suppliers so that they can enjoy cheaper energy that isn’t generated by burning fossil fuels.

All of the tariffs from ESB offered 100% renewable electricity. The Fuel Mix on their website stated that these tariffs used 100% renewable electricity from solar and wind farming, although the exact percentages were not disclosed. This means that their electricity generation was completely carbon neutral.

Unfortunately, there was no information on how much (if any) of their gas came from renewable sources (such as animal or vegetation waste). However, ESB were keen to state that they had a clear focus on innovation and renewability.

It’s also worth noting that the company was invested in 18 wind farms and nine hydroelectric stations across Britain and Ireland.

The page also included energy fuel mix data for tariffs that have now been discontinued (as of 30th August 2019). These are as follows:

This resulted in 349 g of carbon per kWh, with 0.006 g of high-level radioactive waste generated per kWh.

Did ESB Energy use smart meters? And if so, what kind?

Smart meters can be a great way for energy consumers to better keep track of their energy use and ensure fair and accurate bills with no need to report meter readings on a monthly basis. They work by sending usage data to energy suppliers in real time, while also providing greater visibility of energy use for consumers.

However, not all smart meters are created equal. The first generation of "SMETS 1" smart meters use a 3g network to communicate with suppliers. And this can cause them to "go dumb" and stop reporting usage data if the user changes suppliers.

However, ESB Energy not only supplied smart meters, but they exclusively supplied second-generation "SMETS 2" smart meters. These use what is called a DCC network, meaning that even if you change energy suppliers in the future, your smart meter will remain fully functional.

ESB Energy customer reviews

ESB Energy offered reasonable prices, a flexible range of tariffs and 100% renewable electricity. But many energy consumers wanted to know what their customers say about a supplier before deciding to commit. With that in mind, let’s take a look at what ESB Energy’s customers said about them on Trustpilot.

At the time of writing, ESB Energy has 2,207 reviews with a very respectable average star rating of 4.5/5.

Of these 2,207 customer reviews:

• 1,721 (78%) were "Excellent"
• 259 (12%) were "Great"
• 41 (2%) were "Average"
• 30 (1%) were "Poor"
• 156 (7%) were "Bad"

Positive reviews praised ease of switching, excellent customer service, friendly and knowledgeable staff and great value for money. One happy reviewer stated that a member of the team has "helped switch me from British Gas to ESB and is saving me a bomb in the long run". Many of the positive reviews mentioned members of the customer service team by name. Something that consumers tend to do when they have experienced customer service that goes above and beyond.

The comparatively few negative reviews cite billing errors and miscommunications with customer service staff. For instance, one member of the team informed a reviewer that they would not incur an early exit fee by switching to ESB. However, the reviewer later found that they were subject to an exit fee and was (understandably) not impressed.

However, ESB have responded with sincerity to negative reviews on Trustpilot and attempted to seek resolution. ESB has responded to 98% of negative reviews, usually within 24 hours.

Think So Energy may be the supplier for you? Let us help you switch!

If what you’ve read leads you to believe that So Energy may be the supplier for you, you can trust us to manage your switch and ensure that you’re getting the very best value for money, and optimal savings based on your location and usage.

We can also manage every stage of your switch from end-to-end so you can enjoy greener, cheaper energy hassle-free.

Sound good?

Get touch with us today on 0330 818 6223. We’re available from 8.30 am to 5.30 pm.

Read more about different UK energy suppliers here:

• MoneyPlus Energy
• Entice Energy
• Together Energy
• Bulb

Around 86% of homes in the UK run their central heating and hot water on natural gas. That’s about 23 million homes and more than 50 million people. So, as you might expect, gas is pretty big business, with more than 60 companies competing to provide customers with their supply.

Each of these companies offers different prices and tariffs for their services, and have different environmental policies and gas supply sources. Many of them also offer dual fuel tariffs which combine gas and electricity supply.

Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about switching gas suppliers.

Which gas supplier is best for 2020?

According to a customer survey of more than 9,000 people in Which?, the highest rated gas supplier in the UK and the only one to score five stars for customer services was Octopus Energy. Also highly rated were Bulb, Ebico and Pure Planet.

However, there are many ways to choose which is the best supplier for you in 2020. It could be the cheapest, the supplier with the greenest supply and lowest carbon footprint, or it could be one that you can get through to on the phone when you need them.

Below we give you more information about the best suppliers in each of these categories, and tell you how to make the switch to the right supplier for your needs.

How to compare gas prices?

The best way to compare gas prices is to find out how much energy you used in the last year. You can find this information on your bill and it will usually be displayed in kWh. Once you know this number, you can then look at the various gas tariffs from suppliers to see which offers the cheapest price per kWh.

You also need to take into account the standing charge, which is the amount a supplier will charge a day to deliver gas to your home. The combined price of the gas you use and the standing charge gives you a total price to compare.

Average gas prices per kWh?

The average cost of gas per kWh in the UK is 3.80p. This is much cheaper than the average price per kWh of electricity, which stands at 14.37p. This is why gas is the preferred choice for most households for central heating and hot water.

Here is a table listing the prices of some of the major gas suppliers in the UK and their standing charges:

Of course, these are prices for specific tariffs and many energy companies offer more than one. In general, standard variable rates are higher than fixed tariffs.

What does 1 kWh represent?

A kWh, or kilowatt hour, is a measure of energy that equates to 1,000 watts used for one hour. The performance of every household appliance is measured in kWh. So, for example, a 1,000 watt heater kept on for one hour will use one kWh.

In the UK, the average household uses around 12,500 kWh of gas every year to ensure the central heating system is working and hot water running. Of course, it is possible to use more or less than this average, depending on the size of your home and the amount of people living there.

kWh to m3 conversion

While you may be paying for your energy in units of kWh, sometimes your meter or even you bill shows consumption in the amount of cubic metres, or m3, or even cubic feet that you use. If this is the case and you want to convert one to the other to get a better idea of how much you are using, then you can use an online conversion tool such as the one found here.

Who is the cheapest gas provider in the UK?

The four cheapest gas suppliers in the UK offering tariffs are:

1. Gulf Gas & Power UK: £335 a year
2. EDF Energy: £374 a year
3. Zog Energy:£375 a year
4. Entice Energy: £375 a year

These prices are based on the average consumption per home, which is around 12,500 kWh per year.

Will a cheap gas company mean worse customer service?

One thing that puts some people off switching gas supplier energy supplier is the idea that going with a cheaper provider might result in receiving worse customer service. They stick with the Big Six providers like British Gas and npower, knowing they cost more, because they are a known entity.

However, the idea that a cheaper provider also comes with a drop off in customer service is simply not true. Some of the cheaper providers, such as Bulb and Octopus actually score very highly on customer service. In fact, Octopus was the only provider to score five stars on the Which? survey.

By contrast, some of the established providers, such as npower and Scottish Power scored very poorly. As an example, it took Scottish Power 21 minutes and 24 seconds to answer their phone on average. So Energy took just 34 seconds.

How to reduce gas bills

Of course, switching gas supplier is one of the quickest and easiest ways to save on your gas bill. Opting for a cheaper tariff takes just a few minutes and could save hundreds of pounds a year. However, there are various other ways you can save on your gas bill, including:

1. Install a smart thermostat – this can help you to keep a closer eye on what you are using, as well as allowing you to control heating in different parts of your home
2. Turn down your thermostat rather than turning the heating up, close windows and eliminate drafts
3. Install a new boiler –especially if your existing one is old and inefficient
4. Be smarter about water – take shorter showers rather than deep baths
5. Think about insulation – do you have double glazing or insulated loft spaces?

How do gas providers set prices?

Gas prices depend on a wide variety of factors ranging from global production levels and supply chain costs to weather conditions. Each of these elements affects suppliers in different ways, and, as many providers buy gas months or even years in advance, this will have an effect on prices too. Luckily, the ease of switching gas supplier has forced many suppliers to be more aware of their pricing.

What gas company has the best gas?

Green Energy UK offers 100% green gas from renewable sources and is the only company in the UK to do so. However, you do pay a premium for gas with less impact, which can be off putting to some customers.

Bulb gets around 10% of its gas from green sources and offsets the rest to be carbon neutral. Off setting is a common practice that involves putting carbon back into the environment to reduce impact.

The actual gas that enters your home does not come directly from the supplier. Rather it is controlled by a network with amounts being traded by individual companies. So, in essence, all gas in your homes is the same.

Can you switch natural gas providers?

If you think that you are paying too much for your gas, want to go with a provider that offers greener products or offsets their carbon or have simply had a bad customer service experience and want to change to another supplier, then you can make a switch.

You have to be the bill payer for the gas, either as the homeowner or as a tenant. If you rent a property and your bills are included in the rent, then you will need to speak to your landlord and ask them if they want to change supplier, but you have no legal right to switch if you are not named on the bill.

You also need to think about whether there will be exit charges. If you are tied into a fixed deal with one gas supplier and want to change to another, you may be required to pay a fee to exit the contract.

There is also the issue of dual fuel contracts. If your gas and electricity is provided as part of the same contract, then you may need to switch both over to a new provider. Or you may choose to receive your gas and electricity separately.

How to switch gas suppliers for cheaper energy

Once you have decided to make a switch, then you need to look around and decide which tariff and supplier is for you. Once you have found a suitable deal, you have a number of options.

First, you can contact your new chosen supplier and ask them to make the switch for you. Or you can use a switch service like ours. Just call us here at Switch Plan on 0330 818 6223 to find out more.

Tips for getting the cheapest gas tariff for your home

If you are struggling to find the right supplier for you or can’t seem to find a tariff that meets your needs, then there are a few things that you can do to get the best deal.

• Know your tariffs: It’s worth spending a little time understanding the difference between a standard variable rate and a fixed rate tariff
• Economy 7 and 10: These are special tariffs that give you discounted electricity at certain times of day. They are not suitable for everyone but if they work for you then there are savings to be made
• Smart meter tariffs: There are more and more suppliers offering tariffs for smart meters. These can help you monitor your usage and make savings
• Renewable energy: The cost of renewable energy is coming down and with greater investment in sources like green gas, there may be big savings to be made

When is the best time of year to switch energy supplier?

It’s more often a question of the best time for you. This is generally when your contract stipulates that you no longer have to pay exit fees. This means switching gas supplier is free.

Another good time is when prices are about to go up. This usually starts with one of the Big Six pushing up prices. When they do the rest are never far behind. So this could be a good time to lock into a new fixed rate deal.

If there is a good time of year to switch then it’s before winter hits. This is when you use most energy so switching to a better deal at this time could be a good idea.

How long does it take to switch gas supplier?

It varies a little depending on the supplier but on average in the UK it takes about 21 days to switch energy providers. It can be quicker, but as most suppliers wait until the end of the 14 day cooling off period before starting the switch, it will rarely be much faster than around 17 days.

Read More:

• How to switch energy suppliers
• Can my energy supplier stop me from switching
• Switching energy supplier final bill
• Moving house switch energy supplier
• Can i switch energy supplier with a debt
• Cancel energy contract

What is hydroelectric power?

Hydroelectric power is arguably one of our lesser known forms of renewable energy. While it has less of a presence in the UK than wind energy, solar power or even bioenergy (energy extracted during natural biological processes), it’s still a major global presence. According to the British Hydro Association, the UK Hydroelectricity industry employs over 7,000 people across the country. Furthermore, while it has a relatively small presence in the UK, it generates around 20% of the world’s electricity and a staggering 90% of the planet’s overall renewable power.

Today, we generate far less hydropower than countries like China, Brazil, Canada, Russia, and the USA. However, we have a pioneering history of generating hydroelectricity. We’ve been generating it for over 140 years, and the world’s first hydroelectric power machine was built here in 1878 by William Armstrong to power the lights of Cragside country house in Northumberland.

How does hydroelectric power work?

In its simplest terms, hydroelectricity converts the kinetic energy from the movements of water into electricity. It can use the natural movements of the tides or the movements of man made water systems like reservoirs and dams.

This energy is either available for use straight away, pumped into the national grid or stored fro later use.

There are three main kinds of hydroelectric power:

Tidal / Offshore

A fairly recent innovation, this form of hydropower generation harnesses the power of the sea’s changing tides. Tidal power turbines are placed in shallow coastal waters and as the tide flows back and forth, the kinetic energy moved through the turbines and powers the generator.

Though still untested, this has potential for great renewability as the tides ebb and flow several times throughout the day.

Tidal hydropower is also a source of great British innovation with the first ever tidal lagoon project planned for construction off the coast of Swansea in the coming years. This project could potentially generate enough power for 155,000 homes. If it proves successful, similar projects could also be installed in other key places along the UK coastline.

Run of the River

Run of the river hydroelectric power works on the same principle. The movements of natural rivers are used to move turbines that then power generators. However, it’s not the most efficient means of generating hydropower. It’s dependent on the river’s natural movements, making it difficult to control, unless the river is dammed. And because this energy is also difficult to store, much of it can go unused.

Run of the river systems do not usually require a reservoir or dam, making them relatively cheap to build. However, in some cases, a dam can be used to ensure that water pressures are increased, or more consistent.

Hydroelectric Dams

Dams can be used to control the flow and pressure of water in a man-made lake or reservoir. Water is released through the dam, spinning a turbine that is connected to a generator, producing electricity. When the water has flowed through the dam, it returns to the river on the downstream side of the dam. As such, the energy produced is near-infinitely renewable. However, installing a dam can have a lasting and profound knock-on effect on local ecosystems including landscapes and fisheries.

Pumped Storage

One of the most scalable forms of hydroelectric power, pumped storage moves water between reservoirs at different altitudes. Water gains momentum and flows downwards at high speeds from through turbines which then generate electricity. The waster is then pumped back up to the higher reservoir and the cycle repeats.

Unfortunately, because energy is expended moving the water back and forth, this is not the most efficient form of hydroelectric power. It is predominantly used to supply the National Grid at short notice in the event of a power shortage.

What are the pros and cons of hydroelectric power?

While hydroelectric power has enormous potential, it’s not perfect. It is prone to certain inefficiencies and limitations that can potentially prevent it from being used at a larger scale in the UK.

Let’s take a look at some of the Pros & Cons of hydroelectric power in the table below:

The UK’s hydropower projects and infrastructure

The UK has a number of different hydropower projects that are active right now. The largest of which by far is Dinorwig Hydro Power Station in the north west of Wales. This site has been active since 1984 and has a total capacity to generate up to 1,728 megawatts. Enough to power 2.5 million homes.

Up in Scotland, there’s the older Cruachan Power Station in Argyll and Bute. This site has been operating since 1965 and can generate 440 megawatts of hydroelectric power. Enough for up to 225,000 homes. As a pumped storage power station, it is often dormant, generating energy to support the National Grid in times of high demand.

England’s largest hydroelectric power plant is Kielder Power Station in Northumberland. This has been operating since 1982, and can produce around 20,000 megawatt hours of electricity per year. Enough to power approximately 4000 homes.

Who are the main hydropower providers?

Although there are over 50 active energy suppliers in the UK right now, relatively few (even those with a clear focus on renewability) have hydroelectric power as part of their fuel mix. The main hydropower providers include:

• Good Energy
• SO Energy
• Ecotricity

Other suppliers, including those that have recently made hydropower investments include:

• ESB Energy

Want to change energy suppliers? We’re here to help?

Hydropower has a lot of potential for providing clean energy for decades to come. If you want to support one of the suppliers that provides energy from hydropower, we can help you to find the perfect supplier and tariff for your needs. Making your home more sustainable, and reducing your energy bills too!

Furthermore, we can manage your switch from end-to-end, so you can enjoy cheaper, greener energy without the hassle and headaches that can come with switching.

Call us today on 0330 818 6223 to find out more. We’re available from 8.30 am - 5.30 pm

Want to know more on this topic? Check out these guides:

• Wind power
• Solar energy
• Tidal power
• Nuclear power
• Geothermal energy
• Biomass energy

Switching energy suppliers during the COVID-19 pandemic

Our price comparison service will not be affected by the COVID-19 crisis and our customers will still be able to switch energy suppliers from the comfort of their home. Our experts continue to work hard - from confinement - to make sure that you find the best energy deal on the market.

Energy suppliers are still allowing customers to switch over to one of their tariffs, however new restrictions will be in place if an engineer or technician needs to visit your home.

 

What can I and cant I do during the newest lockdown?

Times continue to change and it seems that within twenty-four hours the world could flip upside down. However, it is our job to keep you as informed as possible and to worry less about what tomorrow might bring.

As we at Switch Plan continue to work remotely, we want to also keep you, our customers, notified. According to the BBC article, "what are the lockdown rules across the UK?" the restrictions include the following:

People in the UK are only able to leave their home for essential reasons such as

1. Work that does not permit remote work such as social workers, nannies, and cleaners.
2. Education, training, childcare, and medical appointments.
3. Outdoor exercise.
4. Leaving to shop for groceries or essential goods, such as medicine.
5. Religious ceremonies
6. Activities related to moving house.

Because of these updated restrictions, you might be wondering how this might effect activities related to switching energy suppliers and receiving assistance if for some reason your electricity is cut off.

Well, here at Switch Plan we can assure you that there is no need to worry when thinking about switching providers. We are here for you and all your energy needs, even while it seems that the COVID-19 pandemic continues to worsen. Let us at Switch Plan be the stable thing in your life in such uncertain and unstable times.

Can technicians still come to my house?

Under current government advice, suppliers are still allowing technicians to do home visits in order to carry out emergency installments or metering work. Each supplier has implemented their own rules and restrictions surrounding technicians visiting customers' homes. If you have started having symptoms of COVID-19 and have a technician appointment in the next two weeks, you should inform your energy supplier to delay the appointment in order to stop the spread of infection and keep others safe.

What are energy suppliers doing to help their customers during the pandemic?

There is always help available for vulnerable people and families who struggle to pay their energy bills. From the Warm Home Discount, to the Cold Weather Payment, there is help available for those who are eligible. During the pandemic, the government has introduced further plans to assist people who have been financially hit by the crisis.

• The Energy Price Cap has been extended until the end of 2021. The Energy Price Cap intends to protect customers from being overcharged by their energy supplier. Due to the financial burden of the pandemic, the government has extended this scheme until the end of next year, to shield vulnerable people from overly expensive energy plans.
• Some energy suppliers have allowed for some flexibility when it comes to payment. You may be permitted some extra time to pay or payment breaks.
• Ofgem has asked that suppliers provide emergency credit or strengthened support for vulnerable people who are struggling to pay their energy bills.
• You can read the governments' measures to support vulnerable people through the pandemic here.

COVID-19 and your prepayment tariff

What do I do if my local top-up point is shut due to Coronavirus?

If you are unable to top up your prepayment meter due to lockdown restrictions, then you should contact your energy supplier as soon as possible. If you have a smart prepayment meter, then topping up should be easy, as you can do this online, or on the phone, without any issues. However, if you are unable to leave your home and top up your tariff, then you should nominate a family or friend to do this for you. Just be sure to disinfect your card before handing it to them (from a distance) to protect you both from the virus. Ofgem also recommends that you leave your energy box open if it is outside so it can be accessed by your nominee.

Can I move house during the pandemic?

Technically, you can still move house during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, be aware that any party involved in the moving process will have their own restrictions on how they work.

The government advises anyone planning on moving home to be flexible during this time and to anticipate the need for delaying their move-in date. Here are some of the changes you will face if you are looking to move house soon:

• You might have to do virtual home visits, instead of being able to visit properties in person.
• If you need to head to your estate agents' offices, you will need to wear a face covering in order to prevent the spread of the virus. Agents should also be operating with an appointment system.
• You should vacate your house and ensure that it is sufficiently disinfected if you are welcoming visitors to view your home. It should also be disinfected after the viewing is complete.
• When it comes to the big day, you cannot guarantee that your removal van company will be operating normally. Therefore, you should be prepared to move your belongings yourself. If the company is working properly, you should make sure that you disinfect all of your belongings in order to keep everyone safe.

Above all, moving home involves some personal risks, so we highly recommend that you take all precautions before embarking on this process.

How to keep your energy bill down when working from home?

If you are having to work remotely, you are likely spending a lot more on your energy bills. Your lights will be switched on more, you might be cooking more during the day, and during the colder months you will want your heating on for longer. However, there are many ways you can keep your costs down, despite spending more time at home.

• Installing a smart meter will allow you to keep a real-time check on how much energy you are using on a daily basis.
• If there is more than one of you working from home, try to set up your remote offices in the same room, so you don't have lights on in multiple rooms.
• If you are sharing your home with others during this time, you could consider meal sharing so you only need to use gas once, rather than per person.
• Understanding your energy bills can help you to notice any changes since you started working remotely.

For more information about the COVID-19 Pandemic and newest restrictions, please visit the UK government's website here.

Here at Switch Plan we care about not just your energy needs, but also about you and your family. We hope you all stay safe during these hard times and carry on.

In 2019, the only active fracking site in the UK had to halt operations because five surface tremors were felt in less than a week. But is this the end of fracking and is it really as bad as people think? But first, a bit more information about what it is and how it works.

What is fracking?

Fracking is the process of extracting gas and oil from beneath the surface from hard to reach shale rock areas. It involves drilling to a depth of around two to three kilometres and pumping a high pressure mix of sand, water and chemicals into the ground. This creates small fractures in the shale to release pockets of natural gas which can be collected on the surface.

The shale rock in question needs to be deep and compressed over millions of years, as well as having been heated to produce usable natural gas. Only at depths of more than 2km does the temperature reach the required levels for this to happen.

Whilst it is a very impressive feat of engineering to be able to drill to these depths and release the gas, critics argue that it is dangerous to both the natural environment and those who live within a certain radius of the drilling.

Is fracking bad?

There are many reasons that fracking is considered bad. Below we list just some of the reasons why it is considered detrimental to both the environment and to people who live close by.

• Methane gas – The majority of the gas unleashed by fracking shale is methane. This makes its way to the surface where an estimated four percent of it escapes into the atmosphere. Methane is up to 25 times more harmful to the atmosphere than carbon dioxide
• Use of chemicals – Chemicals are added to the water at a rate of between 0.5% and 2% to help keep fissures open. These can include mercury, uranium and lead
• Poisoning water supplies – These chemicals can escape and get into the water supply, which is a major cause of concern for local drinking water

Fracking has been linked to a huge range of environmental problems, including damaged crops, seismic activity and even health problems in people who live close by.

Bad for your health? Is it safe to live near fracking?

Fracking has been linked with a number of serious health complaints, including:

1. Respiratory problems
2. Problems during pregnancy
3. Stress and sleep deprivation

These health complaints are largely caused by the dangerous chemicals that are used during the process. This includes gases such as benzene and other volatile chemicals that are stored in waste pits on or near the fracking site. There is also the danger of accidents and injury which can occur from spills.

In the US, studies carried out by Johns Hopkins School of Public Health found that there were links between fracking and conditions such as asthma. So, far from being just negative propaganda, there are genuine health concerns that arise from fracking. If you live near a proposed site this can be a worry.

The desire for cheap energy in the UK is big but this always needs to be measured against the human and environmental cost of accessing the raw materials.

Does all natural gas come from fracking?

In the US, around 70% of the natural gas comes from shale. However, here in the UK this is not the case. The only fracking site in the UK, in Lancashire, was forced to close in 2019 after some safety concerns. Under a government safety scheme, fracking must be forced to stop if tremors are felt above 0.5 on the Richter scale.

The UK government has made pledges to try and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, with a greater emphasis on renewable energy sources, such as wind. However, gas is still needed in large quantities for heating and cooking – accounting for around 70% of all use. Currently, the UK imports over half its gas from countries like Qatar and Algeria. This is set to rise to 72% by 2030. While shale gas or fracking once seemed like a viable alternative, fracking in the UK may have had its day.

What percentage of natural gas comes from fracking?

In the US, one of the world’s largest exponents of fracking, around 67% of all the natural gas used comes from the process. Around 50% of the oil also comes from the same source. So, as you can see, it's big business. These figures look set to rise to around 75% in the coming years.

Is fracking worse than drilling?

We have established above that fracking is not great news for the environment or anyone who lives in the vicinity. But how does it compare to other forms of collecting natural gas and oil?

The main other type of gas and oil collection involves drilling. So, how do the two measure up?

Much more water is used in fracking than traditional drilling. However, it is difficult to really compare the two because fracking is more of an unknown quantity. We all know about the drilling disasters that have happened over the years that have resulted in millions of litres of oil pouring into the oceans. However, we do not know about the same scale of disaster with fracking.

However, there is little doubt that fracking is having immediate negative effects on the world. Over the long term, these effects will be more widely felt, especially if the practice becomes widespread. Acknowledging this, many governments are moving to ban the process but there are still others, such as the USA, who are escalating it.

To read more on this topic, check out these guides:

• Liquid petroleum gas (LPG)

In this modern age, we have all manner of technological contrivances in place to keep us warm, happy and healthy all year round. Even when the weather is cold, frosty and gloomy outside. From boilers and radiators to electric storage heaters and gas fires, these keep our living space and our water warm, ensuring that we have heat when we need it, and that our homes can say bright, warm dry and cosy. But these devices require gas and / or electricity to run. And in a free market, the rising cost of fuel has made this a daunting prospect for those of us less financially well off. Those of us who are unable to afford the cost of heating and lighting our homes are in what is known as fuel poverty, and might be eligible for government grants.

In this post, we’ll take a close look at the problem of fuel poverty, as well as examining the help and support that is available to those experiencing fuel poverty in 2020.

What is fuel poverty?

Since the energy market was privatised in 1990 and scarcely regulated until 2000 with no cap on household energy costs coming into effect until 2019, energy costs for most UK households have skyrocketed over the past few decades.

And when the cost of fuel exceeds people’s ability to pay for the fuel they use, this combination of Low Income and High Cost (known as the LIHC indicator) can lead to the problem of fuel poverty. Vulnerable people either aren’t able to cover the cost of the energy they use or they have to go without other essentials to pay for their energy bills.

All energy suppliers are obliged to offer support to customers who are finding it difficult to pay their bills. However, even with the added flexibility afforded by energy suppliers, fuel poverty can become a black hole of expense that decimates the precarious household budgets of our most vulnerable people.

The energy industry regulator Ofgem has some useful information on what to do if you’re having trouble paying your bills in addition to the information that we’ll provide here.

What causes fuel poverty?

There are a number of factors that can give rise to fuel poverty in UK households:

• The rising costs of wholesale energy, which suppliers pass on to their customers
• Inadequate insulation and energy saving measures
• Inadequate heating infrastructure meaning that more expense is incurred for less heat
• Low incomes (pensions, job seeker’s benefits, disability benefits etc.)

Who is affected by fuel poverty?

The unfortunate truth is that many of us in the UK are only a payday or two away from fuel poverty. And with the recent pandemic making many of our jobs seem increasingly precarious, it’s in our interest to understand the problem of fuel poverty, even if it’s not an imminent and immediate threat to us right now.

Typically those of us at the greatest risk of fuel poverty include:

• Children under 16 years of age
• People with disabilities or who are suffering from long-term illnesses
• The elderly
• Those of us on low paid incomes (on universal credit or in-work benefits)

What is the "fuel poverty gap"?

While the Low Income High Cost (LIHC) indicator is used to measure the extent of fuel poverty, the fuel poverty gap is used to measure its depth. The fuel poverty gap is the reduction in required spending that would be necessary to lift a household out of fuel poverty.

Essentially, it’s the difference between where households are and where they should be in order to keep their homes warm and conducive to good health.

How is fuel poverty calculated?

In England, fuel poverty is measured using the Low Income High Costs (LIHC) indicator. It determines that a household is in fuel poverty if the occupants’ required fuel costs are above the national average and spending this amount would leave them below the official poverty line.

Again there are 3 variables used to determining whether a household is in fuel poverty:

• The household’s combined income
• The household’s energy requirements
• The current fuel prices

How many UK households are in fuel poverty?

According to the latest reports (which use 2018 data), there are approximately 2.4 million UK households in fuel poverty. That’s just over 10% of the UK’s population. You can read the full report here.

How does fuel poverty affect health?

Fuel poverty can have a profoundly negative effect on both physical and mental health. In fact, it can even have fatal consequences. According to research carried out by fuel poverty charity National Energy Action in 2015 cold, fuel poor homes are a bigger cause of death than road accidents, alcohol or drug abuse across the UK.

Fuel poverty (as well as poverty in general) is a tremendous source of stress. And over time this stress can become chronic. This chronic stress can increase our risk of and exacerbate a number of serious chronic diseases by triggering the body’s inflammatory response. Research in the US has linked chronic stress and inflammation to a range of serious illnesses including heart disease, diabetes and even cancer.

Living in a cold home can also exacerbate serious circulatory and respiratory conditions, which carries more immediate and serious risks in the winter months.

Which is why it’s important to get the help to which you’re entitled in order to combat fuel poverty.

What help is available for fuel poor households?

The good news is that the government is aware of the problem of fuel poverty and there are a number of mechanisms in place to help the nation’s most vulnerable to keep their homes powered and warm over the cold winter months. Some of these are discounts facilitated by energy suppliers while some are grants that are claimed directly from the government.

Here, we’ll take a closer look at these provisions, how they work and how you can apply:

The energy price cap

The cost of energy has tripled over the past 20 years. In order to combat the growing problem of escalating fuel prices, the energy watchdog Ofgem has begun to apply a cap on energy prices. Energy companies are unable to sell energy at prices that exceed this, and are forced to pay hefty fines (as well as refunding customers) when they don’t abide by it. This energy price cap first came into effect in January 2019 and is re-evaluated every 6 months to ensure that consumers get a fair deal.

As of October 2020, the energy price cap is set at £1,042. The lowest it has been since it was first implemented.

Nonetheless, even with this cap in place, many households may struggle to pay their fuel bill in the winter months. Which is why the following measures have been put in place to protect the most vulnerable in the UK.

Winter Fuel Payment

The Winter Fuel Payment (or Winter Fuel Allowance) administrated by the Department of Work and Pensions. It is a means tested, one-off, tax-free payment made to energy consumers of pensionable age to help them meet the rising cost of winter fuel.

How much of a Winter Fuel payment you are entitled to depends on your circumstances during what is known as the "qualifying week" of 21-27 September 2020.

The criteria for this payment are fairly simple. You are eligible for a winter fuel payment if you:

• Were born on or before October 1954 (of course the date will change to 1955 next year).
• Will be resident in the UK for at least one day of the qualifying week.

Payments can range from £100-£300.

The table below explains how your circumstances will affect your payment…

You can find out more about the Winter Fuel Payment on the government’s website here.

Warm Home Discount

The Warm Home Discount is a government initiative but it is administrated by energy suppliers. Although they will usually contact you to let you know if and when you are eligible for this discount, it’s definitely worth being proactive and contacting then if you believe that you meet the criteria. Be advised, however, that not all energy suppliers offer the Warm Home Discount.

The scheme was established in April 2011 as a means to help the most vulnerable in society to keep their homes warm during winter. Although it was originally supposed to end on 31 March 2015, it has been extended twice and is still available in 2020.

Unlike the Winter Fuel Payment, the Warm Home Discount does not change depending on your circumstances. It is a flat discount of £140 and is deducted automatically from your energy bill.

You can apply for this discount if you are a member of either a "core group" or "broader group".

The government’s definition of the "core group" is:

• Anyone who receives the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit, and
• Is the main account holder or their spouse.

The "broader group" includes anyone in receipt of the following means-tested benefits:

• Income support.
• Income based Jobseekers’ Allowance.
• Income related Employment and Support Allowance (including a work-related activity or support component
• Low income elements of Universal Credit.

As well as:

• Disabled child element of Universal Credit.
• Disability or pensioner premium.
• Child element for children aged 5 or under.

You can find out more about eligibility here. Or Click Here to see a list of energy suppliers that offer the Warm Home Discount.

Cold Weather Payment

Finally, Cold Weather Payments are designed to help the financially vulnerable when the area where they live is affected by extreme cold. Under the scheme, applicants can get a payment of £25 for each 7 day period where the temperature in their area drops to zero degrees celsius or less between 1st November and 31st March.

The criteria is broader than that of the Winter Fuel Payment. You are eligible if your area meets the temperature criteria above and you are in receipt of the following benefits:

• Pension Credit
• Universal Credit
• Income Support
• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
• Support for Mortgage Interest

You can find out more about Cold Weather Payments here.

Combat fuel poverty with better tariffs

The benefits above can be invaluable in helping vulnerable energy consumers to drive down their energy costs. But don’t forget that changing tariffs can also ensure that your energy costs are more reasonable so that you don’t imperil your finances in order to heat your home.

That’s where we come in!

We can help you to find the perfectly priced tariff for your needs and a supplier who’ll give you the support you deserve.

We’ll even manage the switch from end-to-end to make it as simple and hassle-free for you as possible.

Call us today on 0330 818 6223 to see how we can help.

We’re available from 8.30 am - 5.30 pm.

Would you like to know more about government energy grants? Great! Here are some related articles for you to check out

1. The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (OFGEM)
2. Ombudsman energy
3. What is the Warm Home Discount?
4. Cold Weather Payment
5. Winter Fuel Payment
6. Student energy bills

But did you ever stop to wonder how this energy was created? What fuels were used to generate the energy that we take for granted every day? That energy doesn’t all come from the same place. In fact, our gas and electricity will often come from a variety of different sources, from distribution centres to energy suppliers. But where it all comes from is a mystery to many. This is why we’ve created this article where your energy fuel mix is explained.

Energy Fuel Mix Explained: What is an energy fuel mix?

An energy fuel mix is the combination of fuels that are burned or expended to generate the electricity that we use in our homes. Just as the gas we use comes from a range of sources (offshore drilling, imported Liquid Natural gas etc.) so too does the electricity we use come from a mix of sources.

What is the UK’s energy fuel mix?

Looking at this data from Ofgem we can see that in 2020 much of our energy fuel mix comes from renewable sources. Most of it is generated by wind and solar energy. This is mostly because major energy suppliers like SSE and Scottish Power have invested heavily in generating their own energy as well as supplying it, with growing networks of on and off-shore wind farms.

The full energy mix for Q1 2020 is as explained in this chart:

Energy Fuel Type	Energy Fuel Mix %
Wind & solar	27.98
Offshore wind & solar	13.16
Nuclear	11.9
Gas	26.76
Coal	3.11
Oil	0.17
Hydro	2.28
Bioenergy	8.81
Pumped Storage	1.59
Imports	5.8

How does this compare to our European neighbours?

Let’s take a look:

• France- 74.1% Nuclear, 15.1% Renewables, 10.8% Fossil.
• Germany- 47.5% Fossil, 40.1% Renewables, 12.4% Nuclear.
• Spain- 74% Fossil, 14% Renewables, 12% Nuclear.

And the USA?

• 57% Fossil, 22% Renewables, 21% Nuclear

How did our energy fuel mix evolve over time?

Again, looking at historic data from Ofgem, we can see that since 1998 there has been a radical shift towards renewables. In 1998 the majority of UK energy was generated by burning fossil fuels:

• 33.68% from coal
• 29.71 from gas
• 1.98 from oil

That’s over 65% of the UK’s energy mix from fossil fuels. The rest mostly came from nuclear power, with just 2.08% coming from wind and solar power, and 0.71% from bioenergy. Renewable energy levels hit new highs in 2016 with coal dropping from 13..94% of the UK energy mix in Q1 of 2016 to just 4.34% in Q2. Although gas has remained a consistently high proportion of our energy mix for the past 20+ years, renewables have become a growing proportion of the energy mix.

Since the implementation of the Renewable Energy Directive throughout Europe in 2009, emphasis on renewables has steadily climbed.

What is our energy fuel mix going to be in the years to come?

So, what does the future hold for our energy fuel mix? Needless to say, we can expect a growing emphasis on renewables. Especially as more green energy suppliers enter the market. Companies like Bulb, Ecotricity, Good Energy and Octopus have emerged in recent years with 100% renewable fuel mixes. Most of these come from wind and solar but hydroelectricity and energy from biomass (using chemical energy from natural organic processes) are also forming a bigger part of the picture.

Given that the UK Government recently announced plans to quadruple offshore wind farming and plans continue for 50 new wind turbines in Southern Scotland, we can expect wind farming to play an even bigger part in our energy fuel mix in the future.

Although the statistics show that coal is clearly on the out, it seems like natural gas will continue to be a large presence in our mix for some time to come. Although it is a fossil fuel and as finite as coal and oil, technological advancements in finding and releasing natural gas will likely continue to make it economically viable.

Nonetheless, given that renewables are just that renewable, they’re also self-financing. As long as we continue to invest in research and development into these fuels, we can all look forward to a more renewable future.

Different fuel types and their pros and cons

As we can see, electricity can be generated by expending a number of fuels, from fossil fuels to simple kinetic energy and energy from biological processes. But while it’s easy to label fossil fuels as inherently bad and renewables as inherently good, the truth is that all fuels have their pros and cons.

Let’s take a look at the inherent advantages and disadvantages of each fuel:

Coal

• International reserves are huge.
• Expected to outlast both oil and gas.
  - Burning coal is hugely damaging to the environment releasing both CO2 and NO2.
  - Coal mining is dangerous and damaging to workers’ health.

Gas

• Cleaner than other fossil fuels like oil and coal.
• Very affordable, as delivery infrastructure already exists.
• Still a fossil fuel with finite reserves.
• The UK doesn’t have the same shale infrastructure for fracking as other countries like the US.

Nuclear

• Cheap, reliable and relatively eco-friendly.
• With additional research, it could be made renewable.
• Transporting and storing nuclear waste is potentially damaging to the environment.
• Very costly to set up.

Renewables

• By definition renewables are clean and sustainable.
• Wind turbines and solar power are relatively cheap and easy to build and maintain.
• Wind turbines can take up a lot of space in order to produce large amounts of energy.
• Wind turbines and solar cells are largely dependent on the weather.

What is the energy fuel mix for main suppliers?

There are currently 57 active energy suppliers on the market. As such, it would be impossible to list the energy fuel mix for each one.

However, we can look at the "Big 6" energy suppliers to get a better understanding of the energy fuel mix that around 70% of UK energy consumers are currently paying for:

British Gas

• 76% renewables
• 24% nuclear

Scottish Power

• 26% renewables
• 50% gas
• 6% nuclear
• 4% coal
• 4% other

NPower

• 30.7% renewables
• 54.4% natural gas
• 6.2% nuclear
• 4.8% coal
• 3.9% other

E.on

• 46.3% renewables
• 42.2% gas
• 4.8% nuclear
• 2.6% coal
• 2.2% other

SSE

• 23% renewables
• 67% gas
• 4% nuclear
• 4% coal
• 2% other

EDF

• 20.5 renewables
• 9.3 gas
• 66.6% nuclear
• 3.5% coal
• 0.1% other

You can see a more detailed breakdown of every UK energy provider’s fuel mix here.

Looking for a supplier with a greener energy fuel mix? We’re here to help!

If you’re disappointed by the renewability of your energy supplier’s fuel mix, we can help you to move to a greener and more affordable supplier. What’s more, we can manage your switch from end-to-end so you can enjoy huge savings and cleaner energy, 100% hassle-free!

Sound good? Thought so.

Call us today on 0330 818 6223. We’re available from 8.30 am to 5.30 pm.

Want to know more on this topic? Check out these guides:

• List of energy suppliers
• Compare energy suppliers
• British Gas
• Scottish Power