Shell launches carbon neutral tariffs

Shell Energy has launched two tariffs which will offset carbon emissions created during the production and distribution of its standard renewable energy.

The challenger brand, formerly First Utility, says its two ‘Go Further’ products will offset carbon dioxide (CO2) created during the lifecycle of its customers’ gas and electricity use with certified carbon credits from projects that protect or enhance forests around the world.

Each carbon credit represents the avoidance or removal of one tonne of CO2 from the atmosphere and is subject to a third-party verification process.

In addition to offsetting the emissions created by the production and consumption of gas, Shell says the new tariffs also offset the small amount of carbon created when 100 per cent renewable electricity is produced and distributed to customers’ homes.

The move follows newly released research from Ipsos Mori, commissioned by Shell, which shows that the coronavirus pandemic has further evolved British attitudes to the environment.

According to the research, more than two thirds (67 per cent) say they will seek out products with a lower carbon footprint as a result of the pandemic.

Colin Crooks, chief executive of Shell Energy Retail, said: “Shell supports the UK’s ambition to get to net-zero emissions by 2050, and recently set out our own ambition to become a net-zero emissions energy business in the same timeframe.

“Working towards net-zero homes will play a big part in getting the UK to net-zero emissions. We are here to help our customers make their homes more energy efficient and shift heating to alternative, cleaner forms of energy such as electric heat pumps or hydrogen. At Shell we’re actively exploring options in all these areas but carbon offsetting also has a role to play in helping consumers tackle their carbon footprint.”