Which? names first ‘Eco Providers’ for energy

Good Energy, Green Energy UK and Ecotricity have been accredited by Which? as its first ‘Eco Providers’ for energy following analysis of their renewable credentials.

The consumer group surveyed more than 40 electricity retailers and requested information on the specifics of their green energy offerings, giving each a rating out of 20.

Suppliers were assessed, among other things, on their fuel mix, generation capacity, whether they bought renewable power and the transparency and clarity of their websites.

Topping the list with an overall score of 19 was Good Energy which gained almost the maximum score in each category. The Wiltshire-based company buys the majority of its electricity directly from renewable sources, including from more than 1,000 small-scale generators.

Additionally the retailer generates some renewable electricity using solar and wind, and sells green gas.

Green Energy UK (GEUK) came in second place with 16 points, while Ecotricity came third with 14.

While GEUK does not generate its own electricity, the supplier said it buys enough directly from commercial and independent generators to match its customers’ use. Furthermore, it is the only firm to sell 100 per cent green gas.

Ecotricity meanwhile offers a mix of sourcing, generating some of its own power, buying some directly from generators and matching the remainder with green energy certificates. Furthermore, the company invests in building new renewable generation.

Also achieving a high ranking was British Gas and its British Gas Evolve arm, as well as Scottish Power. In the case of the British Gas suppliers, around two-thirds of their electricity is matched with renewable power generated outside the UK, meaning it will have lost points under Which?’s scoring system which favours UK-based generation.

Which? added that it recognised not all companies take the same approach, meaning comparison can be difficult. It also noted questions over whether a focus on fuel mix is the best route to net zero. As an example pre-payment meter specialist Utilita, which was ranked bottom, said it placed an emphasis on helping households to use less energy.

Responding to his company’s rating, Good Energy chief executive Nigel Pocklington said: “This is a really important accreditation and Good Energy’s industry topping score validates the unique work we have been doing to support renewables for over 20 years.

“Greenwashing is rife in the energy market with most suppliers not buying the green power to match their green tariffs. But the tide is turning and Which?’s new scheme will help people tell the difference between those companies who walk the walk, and those who don’t.”