British Gas is one of the largest energy providers in
the UK. They serve millions of customers. The company often discusses its green energy plans. But how much
of its energy is actually renewable? With energy costs rising and changes to the price cap, many households
are interested. They want to understand where British Gas gets its electricity and gas. They also want to
know how sustainable its energy choices truly are.
British Gas Energy Mix: How
Renewable Is It?
The UK government asks all energy providers to share their fuel mix each year. The latest report for British
Gas (2023-24) shows how this is broken down:
Energy Source
British Gas (%)
UK Average (%)
Renewable Energy
60%
59%
Nuclear
20%
16%
Gas
15%
19%
Coal
3%
4%
Other
2%
2%
Key points:
British Gas gets 60% of its electricity from renewable sources. This is a bit more than
the UK average.
However, 40% of its energy comes from fossil fuels.
There are green tariffs available, but not every British Gas customer takes advantage of them.
How Green Are British Gas Tariffs?
British Gas offers fixed energy tariffs, variable tariffs, and standard variable tariffs. But, not all of
these options are fully renewable. Here is a comparison of these tariffs:
Tariff Name
Renewable Electricity (%)
Carbon Offset Gas?
Exit Fee?
Standard Variable Tariff
60%
No
No
Green Future Energy
100% (via REGO)
10% biogas
Yes (£40)
Go Green Tariff
100% (via REGO)
None
Yes (£50)
What Are REGO Certificates?
Many energy providers, such as British Gas, use Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin (REGO) certificates.
These certificates prove that their energy plans are environmentally friendly. However:
REGOs do not mean that energy comes straight from renewable sources.
Some plans labelled “green” still rely on fossil fuels. REGOs help balance this.
British Gas does not have its own renewable energy assets. This is unlike suppliers such as Octopus
Energy or EDF.
Customers who want a green supplier should look at their choices to find a better deal.
The unit rate and daily standing charge for green tariffs might be more expensive than for standard variable tariffs. Below is a comparison of
energy tariffs from British Gas:
Tariff
Electricity Unit Rate (p/kWh)
Gas Unit Rate (p/kWh)
Daily Standing Charge (p/day)
Standard Variable Tariff
24.50p
6.24p
60.99p (elec) / 31.66p (gas)
Green Future Fixed Tariff
27.10p
7.20p
55.80p (elec) / 29.99p (gas)
Is It Worth Paying More for
a Green Tariff?
A fixed tariff can provide you peace of mind because it locks in your rates.
Green tariffs may cost more, but they support renewable energy projects.
A standard variable tariff is connected to Ofgem’s price cap, which means it can be cheaper when
wholesale prices fall.
Impact of Ofgem’s
Price Cap on British Gas Energy Prices
The Ofgem price cap decides the most energy suppliers can charge for their default rates. The new price cap rates will begin on 1st April 2024.
Period
Price Cap (£ per year)
Unit Rate (Electricity, p/kWh)
Unit Rate (Gas, p/kWh)
Jan – Mar 2024
£1,568
22.36p
5.89p
Apr – Jun 2024
£1,690
23.12p
6.10p
Jul – Sep 2024
£1,717 (latest predictions)
24.50p
6.24p
The amount you save depends on the electricity you use. Meter readings can help ensure that your
energy
bills are correct.
British Gas Smart Meters &
Energy Efficiency
A smart meter helps you check your electricity usage. It can show you simple ways to lower your energy costs.
Here are some benefits:
Automatic meter readings mean you will no longer receive estimated energy bills. You can check electricity
energy consumption values in real-time. Using monthly Direct Debit can help you save money. Many suppliers
offer cheaper rates if you pay by Direct Debit.
British Gas Energy Trust helps customers with low income who are struggling to pay their bills.
How to Switch & Save on British
Gas Tariffs
If you want a cheaper fixed price plan, just follow these steps:
1. Compare Tariffs
Check the new fixed price tariffs and energy quotes online.
Look for the exact savings compared to your current tariff.
2. Check Standing Charges &
Exit Fees
Some tariffs have a lower unit rate. But, they can have a higher daily standing charge.
If you are on a fixed tariff, you may need to pay an exit fee if you switch early.
3. Use a Smart Meter to Track Usage
If you have a credit meter, you can check your energy use right now.
Small changes to your heating or appliances can help lower your electricity usage.
4. Secure a Fixed Tariff
if Rates Are Rising
If price cap predictions say energy prices are rising, consider getting a better deal.
Fixed energy tariffs can guard you against changes in the cost of wholesale energy.
FAQs About
British Gas Renewable Energy & Sustainability
Is
British Gas really a green energy supplier?
British Gas gets 60% of its electricity from renewable sources. However, this number comes from
REGO certificates, not from actually investing in renewable energy generation.
Are
British Gas green tariffs fully renewable?
Green tariffs are entirely renewable, but they only apply to electricity. They still rely on
REGOs. This means that British Gas may not get all of its energy from renewable sources.
How does the price cap affect British Gas
customers?
The Ofgem price cap is the maximum amount customers pay with a standard variable tariff. From 1st
April, this cap is £1,717 for a typical UK household.
Are green
tariffs more expensive?
Yes, green fixed tariffs usually have a higher unit rate than standard variable tariffs. But they
also help gather money for renewable energy.
How
can I switch to a greener energy supplier?
Check unit rates and daily charges.
Consider a lower fixed price offer from a supplier that invests in renewable energy.
Install a smart meter to track energy use and reduce your energy bills.
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