The name and activities of Big Six energy companies often come at the centre of discussions. They power millions of homes and businesses in the United Kingdom. Also, the competition among them is highly noticeable.
For the massive coverage in the energy market, they are also called the backbone of the UK’s energy infrastructure. This article will introduce them in short and also share how you can find the most appropriate energy company for your business.
Who are the Big Six in the UK’s energy market?
Let’s check out the giant energy suppliers in the United Kingdom that fulfil the larger portion of energy demand.
1. British Gas
British Gas is the largest energy company in the United Kingdom, founded in 1812. It supplies gas and electricity to around twelve million customers. Along with energy-providing, the company also offer boiler installation and servicing. It provides a diverse range of tariffs for users with different energy needs and budgets. The last look-over finds that British Gas dominates 27.6% of the UK energy market. They are currently on a mission to build a greener future. The attempt involves cutting the home’s carbon footprint at any budget.
2. EDF Energy
EDF Energy (Électricité de France) is another name in the Big Six, founded in 2002. The French state-owned EDF fully owns the company. They supply natural gas and electricity to homes and businesses in every part of the United Kingdom. Over 5 million business and residential customers in the country use energy from this company, which covers 18% of the UK energy market. EDF is currently investing in carbon-cutting technology to make low-carbon living for everyone.
3. E.ON UK
E.ON is one of the biggest energy suppliers in the UK, established in 1989. E.ON UK is a subsidiary of the German multinational electric utility company E.ON SE. In 2020, E.ON Next was launched by the company as a retail wing to supply residential and business electricity and gas. The company covers 17.1% of the domestic electricity and 14.4% of the domestic gas supply in the UK. All of its fixed home and business tariffs come with 100% renewable energy.
4. OVO Energy
Ovo Energy was launched in 2009, and it is the largest independent energy supplier in Britain. The company works with retail gas and electricity supply to domestic customers. The last survey shows that Ovo Energy has around 4 million customers in the UK. In 2020, OVO acquired the retail arm of SSE, which is another one of the Big Six. Through the acquisition, Ovo Energy achieved the company’s 13.6% share in the electricity market and an 11.3% share in the gas market. Ovo is taking constant initiatives to reduce users’ energy bills and carbon footprint.
5. Scottish Power
Scottish Power was founded in 1990 to deliver electricity and natural gas to consumers in the UK. It is a subsidiary of the Spanish utility company Iberdrola. The energy provider now has over 5 million customers in the United Kingdom. It dominates around 8.9% of the domestic electricity and 7.6% of the domestic gas supply market. Scottish Power is working with innovative renewable energy, especially with wind energy production.
6. SSE PLC
SSE PLC (Scottish and Southern Energy plc) is an international energy company established in 1998. It is a leading renewable electricity promoter and one of the biggest electricity network companies in the UK. SSE supplies energy to around 13% of the UK market, which is equivalent to about 3.6 million customers of domestic electricity and 2.4 million customers of domestic gas. In 2020, Ovo Energy acquired the company. Since then, OVO has been responsible for all its domestic services.
Are the Big Six energy companies the only options for energy?
If you think that the big six are the only choices for energy solutions in the UK, it is wrong. There are 37 independent energy firms along with these giants. The energy market in the United Kingdom is highly competitive. The high number of energy companies lets consumers choose appropriate alternatives wisely. You have a lot of options for personalised and flexible energy solutions.
Moreover, dozens of energy consultancy firms are actively working in the UK. They help consumers find the best deals based on their energy usage patterns, budgets, and environmental priorities. Experts of these firms inspect energy needs, analyse the market, compare prices and negotiate with energy suppliers on behalf of consumers. Thus, they assist in making wise decisions on choosing energy solutions.
How to find the most suitable energy company for your business?
Finding an appropriate energy company for your business depends on how well you have analysed the prices, reviews, and customer support. You should keep the following points in mind when looking for an energy supplier.
Compare prices:
Study different energy companies, collect their price quotations and compare their pricing structures. Do not forget to double-check their fixed and variable rates as well. This attempt will let you find the most affordable energy solution.
Check customer reviews:
Customer reviews of an energy company represent whether the existing consumers are satisfied or not. You can find real consumer feedback on the energy providers’ websites, social media profiles, and forums.
Consider renewable energy:
Renewable energy should be your top priority for a greener world. Many energy companies are working for renewable energy distribution as an environment-saving practice. Considering one will encourage building a greener future.
Check customer service:
Customer service is a crucial point when choosing an energy supplier. Ensure that the company has an active customer care team that responds quickly in the case of any issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How many energy companies are there in the UK?
About 37 energy suppliers are active in the United Kingdom. They purchase energy from wholesalers and distribute them to retail consumers.
Q. Are these Big Six the best energy suppliers for any business?
Though they are giants, they may not be suitable for all businesses. After conducting research, you can find a well-matched energy provider that meets your energy needs.
Q. Should I switch to a small energy supplier?
Yes. It can even be a good decision because small suppliers generally offer better customer service to stay ahead of the competition.
London Gas and Power
https://www.londongasandpower.co.ukWe established energy consultancy firm focused on serving the comprehensive needs of businesses to save money on their energy bills.