Green energy tariffs are becoming more and more popular in the United Kingdom. As the UK looks at becoming net-zero by 2050, most energy suppliers now offer renewable energy contracts. But with there being so many, how can you choose the best tariff?

This guide will help to give you some advice on what to look for and how to choose the best green energy tariff.

What Is A Green Energy Tariff?

In the UK, the majority of energy suppliers now offer green tariffs. They are a fantastic way to support renewable energy and are often a lot cheaper than traditional energy sources.

Green energy is any type of energy generated from natural resources. These include:

Water (hydro).
Wind.
Sunlight (solar).
Geothermal energy.
Biomass.
Hydroelectric power.

These energy sources all work in their ways, but all of them will not harm the environment as they do not release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.

Sometimes, the green part can be misleading. Some of these tariffs supply renewable energy directly and others may involve purchasing renewable energy guarantee of origin (REGO) certificates on the open market.

REGO certificates are issued to renewable energy generators for each megawatt-hour of renewable energy generated. Any excess certificates created at times of surplus can be sold to non-renewable energy generators who create green tariffs.

Why Should I Choose A Green Energy Tariff?

With the United Kingdom having a strong focus on becoming net-zero by 2050, there has been a huge increase in companies offering renewable tariffs, as well as a rise in low carbon sources in our national grid.

No matter what tariff you are on, it is more than likely that we are using some amount of sustainably generated electricity.

By selecting to use a green tariff, you are showing to both the energy supplier and the world that you want to help the planet. This choice is to avoid fossil fuels being used to generate electricity and to help the United Kingdom become net-zero.

With the increase in green tariffs on the market, it shows that there is a demand for customers wanting to use renewable energy and the suppliers are listening. Whatever tariff you choose, you are making a solid contribution to the planet.

So, with a green tariff, some or all of the electricity that you buy will be ‘matched’ by your energy supplier purchasing renewable energy. These purchases could be from numerous renewable energy sources like wind, solar and hydro.

When choosing a tariff, you can check the fuel mix of your supplier. All energy suppliers in the United Kingdom are required to give evidence of their fuel sources, most of which are available on the provider’s website.

Many suppliers offer 100% renewable tariffs, others with less. It could be a good idea to do your research and see which energy supplier gives the best deal, along with a solid percentage of energy being renewable.