Finding the right energy supplier in the UK isn’t just about price anymore. With the rising focus on green tariffs, customer service, and energy efficiency, households and businesses are evaluating more than just cost.
The UK energy market has experienced major shifts in the past few years, especially following price cap changes and supplier collapses. Choosing the right provider can be the difference between stability and surprise bills.
In this guide, you’ll explore how energy providers work, what makes them different, and which ones lead the UK market in 2025 for service, sustainability, and satisfaction.
Why Does Choosing the Right Energy Supplier Matter in the UK?
The decision to choose a particular energy company in the UK impacts more than your monthly bill. A good supplier offers consistent service, transparent tariffs, and responsive customer care. More importantly, the provider you select contributes to the kind of energy future the UK is building.
From greener options to smarter billing, here’s why it matters:
- Cost Efficiency: Choosing a competitive tariff can reduce annual energy bills by hundreds of pounds.
- Customer Service: Strong customer support ensures quick resolutions during outages or billing issues.
- Sustainability Goals: Opting for renewable suppliers supports the UK’s net-zero carbon objectives.
- Billing Transparency: Clear breakdowns of standing charges and unit rates avoid hidden surprises.
- Reliability: Trusted suppliers offer stable service during market fluctuations or supply crises.
Additionally, as energy technology evolves, suppliers are integrating smart meters, usage analytics, and flexible tariffs. These features allow you to monitor and manage your energy consumption more efficiently.
Ultimately, a well-chosen supplier not only saves you money but also enhances your control and experience as a consumer.
How Do UK Energy Companies Set Their Tariffs and Pricing Structures?
Energy pricing in the UK is influenced by several interconnected factors. Suppliers calculate your bills using a combination of standing charges and unit rates.
The standing charge is a daily fixed cost for maintaining your energy supply, while the unit rate is based on how much gas or electricity you consume, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh).
Tariffs are broadly divided into fixed and variable categories. Fixed tariffs lock your rate for a set period, protecting you from market fluctuations, while variable tariffs change according to wholesale energy prices.
Additionally, factors like fuel type, green energy contributions, region, and government levies also affect what you pay. The UK energy regulator, Ofgem, sets a price cap to protect consumers on standard variable tariffs, ensuring they don’t overpay.
However, switching to a competitive plan can often result in lower costs and added benefits such as cashback, referral bonuses, or free smart meter installations.
What is the Difference Between Green and Traditional Energy Suppliers?
Green energy suppliers focus on generating electricity from renewable sources like wind, solar, and hydro. Traditional energy companies, on the other hand, often rely on fossil fuels such as natural gas and coal to generate power. The key difference lies in the environmental impact and long-term sustainability of each approach.
Green suppliers typically offer carbon offsetting or direct renewable electricity. Some generate their own clean energy, while others buy renewable energy certificates to match their supply.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
| Feature | Green Suppliers | Traditional Suppliers |
| Energy Source | Solar, Wind, Hydro | Gas, Coal, Nuclear |
| Environmental Impact | Low | High |
| Typical Tariff Cost | Slightly Higher or Equal | Often Lower (but varies) |
| Renewable Guarantees | Yes (REGO certified) | No or Partial |
| Long-Term Sustainability | High | Low |
Choosing green doesn’t always mean paying more. Many providers now offer eco-friendly tariffs at competitive prices, aligning affordability with environmental responsibility.
Who Regulates the Energy Market in the UK and How Does That Affect You?
The UK energy market is regulated by Ofgem, the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets. Ofgem ensures that energy suppliers operate fairly, transparently, and in the best interest of consumers. This includes enforcing price caps, overseeing supplier practices, and stepping in when companies collapse.
As a consumer, Ofgem’s presence offers several protections. You’re guaranteed a smooth transition if your supplier goes out of business through their Supplier of Last Resort scheme.
They also regulate how tariffs are presented, ensuring price transparency and consumer rights regarding complaints, meter readings, and disconnections.
Ultimately, this regulation enhances market stability, fosters competition, and protects your financial and service interests.
Top 10 Energy Companies in the UK for 2025
1. Octopus Energy
Octopus Energy has firmly established itself as the UK’s most trusted and awarded energy supplier, and 2025 marks yet another year of innovation and customer satisfaction.
Known for their pioneering smart tariffs, Octopus blends affordability, renewable innovation, and excellent customer service into one seamless energy experience.
The company offers a wide selection of tariffs like Agile Octopus, which updates prices every 30 minutes based on wholesale rates, and Intelligent Octopus Go, designed for electric vehicle owners to schedule cheaper off-peak charging.
For solar users, tariffs like Octopus Flux and Outgoing Octopus help households profit from their solar output.
Beyond pricing, Octopus stands out with:
- Smart home technology integration for heating, EV charging, and solar usage.
- Octoplus Rewards, which gamifies your energy usage with cashback and prizes.
- Cosy 6 heat pumps, up to 4x more efficient than gas boilers.
- Solar panel systems that can cut electricity bills by up to 90%.
Octopus Energy’s customer-first culture is reflected in over 621,000 five-star reviews and consistent top rankings in Which? and Trustpilot surveys. As an industry disruptor, they invest heavily in green infrastructure, managing over 400 renewable energy sites across Europe through Octopus Energy Generation.
Backed by global partners like Origin Energy and Tokyo Gas, Octopus continues to lead Britain’s green energy revolution, powering over 6 million homes globally.
2. British Gas
British Gas is not only the oldest energy supplier in the UK but also one of the most trusted, with over 9 million customers across homes and businesses.
Known for its reliability and nationwide presence, British Gas offers everything from gas and electricity tariffs to boiler installations, home protection plans, and EV solutions.
In 2025, the company continues to evolve with a focus on decarbonisation and cost-efficiency. Their fixed tariffs remain below the July price cap, offering savings for new and loyal customers alike.
For electric vehicle users, British Gas now features the Hive SmartCharge system, helping households:
- Save up to 4p per kWh on EV charging.
- Earn monthly credits on their energy bill.
- Access free EV charging for a year with a Hive EV Charger installation.
British Gas is also investing heavily in smart home upgrades, including heat pumps, insulation, and solar panels. Their Home Health Check programme helps assess how homes can become more energy efficient with tailored solutions.
With over 155,000 five-star reviews and awards like the Uswitch Best Overall Improvement Award 2024, British Gas continues to merge heritage with innovation, delivering dependable service backed by a legacy of 200+ years.
3. E.ON Next
E.ON Next is a forward-thinking energy provider serving over 5 million customers across the UK. Known for its fully renewable electricity offerings, the company blends smart technology, digital accessibility, and personalised tariffs to meet evolving household needs.
In 2025, E.ON Next offers several standout tariffs:
- NextFixed (12–24 months): Locks in prices for stability.
- NextGust: Powered by UK wind energy.
- NextPledge: Guarantees rates below the Ofgem price cap.
- NextDrive: Tailored for EV owners with overnight charging at just 6.7p per kWh.
E.ON Next provides significant tech savings, including:
- £1,000 off solar panel packages.
- £350 off heat pump installations.
- £50 discount on EV chargers.
Their platform makes switching simple, and their dedicated Energy Specialists offer tailored support so customers speak with the same team every time.
With over 121,000 five-star reviews and a Trustpilot rating of 4.5/5, customers consistently praise E.ON Next’s easy account management, clear tariffs, and responsive service.
Their support for education initiatives like Teach the Future reinforces their commitment to long-term climate action, ensuring their customers play a role in building a sustainable UK energy future.
4. EDF Energy
EDF Energy is one of the UK’s largest producers of zero-carbon electricity, offering a range of innovative, EV-friendly tariffs and renewable-focused solutions.
With a strong background in nuclear power and renewable investment, EDF ensures a low-carbon footprint while providing competitive rates.
Key offerings in 2025 include:
- GoElectric: The UK’s cheapest fixed EV tariff, offering five off-peak charging hours nightly.
- EDF Evolve: For moderate EV users with cost savings of up to £200 annually.
- Pod Point Plug & Power: Combine home charging installation and tariff benefits.
- Smart Charging bolt-on: Adds daily off-peak charging flexibility and a £60 annual bill credit.
Beyond EVs, EDF also offers:
- Solar panel packages with up to £0 electricity bills on the Empower Exclusive Tariff.
- Heat pump tariff savings up to £360 per year.
- Two-month free boiler cover promotions and installation discounts.
With a stellar reputation and thousands of charging points nationwide, EDF’s infrastructure supports households making the switch to cleaner, smarter energy.
Whether you’re an EV driver, solar enthusiast, or looking to reduce carbon at home, EDF’s integrated energy ecosystem makes them a top choice in 2025.
5. OVO Energy
OVO Energy, a rapidly growing force in the UK market, is revolutionising the way households engage with their energy.
Since its founding in 2009, OVO has focused on smart technology, sustainable living, and carbon-cutting solutions, offering everything from green tariffs to innovative Beyond membership benefits.
In 2025, OVO’s standout features include:
- Beyond Plan: Earn up to five solar panels in rewards, access 2 hours of free electricity weekly, and receive VIP benefits at OVO-sponsored venues.
- Charge Anywhere: Save up to 15% on EV charging across networks.
- Fix and Get Covered: Combine fixed energy prices with boiler protection.
OVO also leads in smart home integration, allowing customers to track and reduce energy use through the app. This results in better control over costs and reduced carbon emissions.
Community-driven and green-minded, OVO has planted 5 million trees since 2015 and continues to invest in the OVO Foundation, supporting young people in climate education. Their goal? Achieve net zero carbon by 2035, with members halving their footprint along the way.
Rated 4.6 stars by over 219,000 customers, OVO Energy remains a firm favourite for those who value tech-savvy tools, green innovation, and customer-focused energy plans.
6. So Energy
So Energy positions itself as a leading green energy challenger brand, offering 100% renewable electricity and award-winning customer care. Serving over 300,000 customers, the company is known for combining simplicity, value, and sustainability into its tariff options.
Founded by friends with a shared passion for ethical energy, So Energy has grown rapidly due to its easy switching process, straightforward pricing, and digital convenience.
Their customers benefit from:
- 100% renewable electricity on all fixed tariffs.
- A user-friendly online account to manage bills, submit meter readings, and make payments.
- Competitive fixed and variable tariffs among the most affordable in the UK.
- Award-winning support, including recognition from Uswitch and a solid Trustpilot rating.
The provider is also signed up to the Energy Switch Guarantee, ensuring hassle-free transitions when customers move from other suppliers. Customers can combine their tariff with solar and battery options, taking advantage of the growing demand for energy independence.
In 2024, So Energy was listed in the Sunday Times Best Places to Work, highlighting their inclusive workplace culture. With its customer-centric and environmentally conscious mission, So Energy continues to deliver value while pushing for a cleaner UK energy future.
7. Shell Energy
Shell Energy offers a unique blend of corporate energy experience and UK-based renewable supply, making it a major player in both residential and commercial energy markets.
In 2025, Shell Energy continues to evolve, offering smart solutions for homes and tailored services for businesses seeking to reduce their carbon footprint.
For businesses, Shell Energy provides:
- 100% renewable electricity backed by REGO certificates.
- Flexible pricing plans including Fixed, Pass-Through, and Flexible Purchasing contracts.
- Options for renewable gas, on-site generation, and corporate power purchase agreements (cPPAs).
Shell Energy also supports the UK’s transition to clean transport with EV charging infrastructure via NewMotion and Ubitricity, providing home, workplace, and on-street solutions.
Customers benefit from:
- Simplified contracts and transparent billing.
- Decarbonisation support through carbon credits, biomethane, solar, and hydrogen solutions.
- Long-term partnership opportunities for companies to reach net zero.
Shell’s global scale allows it to offer competitive pricing while investing in long-term sustainable infrastructure. Its collaboration with clients like Norsk Hydro demonstrates how it helps power major industrial operations with clean energy.
Shell Energy’s strength lies in its technical depth, customisation, and reliability, making it a preferred choice for forward-thinking companies and eco-conscious consumers alike.
8. Good Energy
Good Energy stands out as the UK’s only Certified B Corp home energy supplier, demonstrating its genuine commitment to ethical, transparent, and green energy.
With a focus on direct-to-generator power, Good Energy ensures that 100% of the electricity it supplies is truly renewable, sourced from over 2,500 independent UK generators.
In 2025, Good Energy continues to expand its ecosystem, offering:
- Solar panel and battery installations with flexible packages.
- Heat pump systems eligible for the £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
- Smart tariffs for EV drivers and solar customers, including:
- EV Charge Fixed Tariff: Off-peak EV charging from 12am–5am.
- Heat Pump Tariff: 7 hours of cheaper rates per day.
- Solar Savings Export Tariff: Earn 15p per kWh for exported energy.
Good Energy is also a leader in energy transparency. Their Good Green Supply standard reports on how much of their energy is:
- Truly renewable.
- New green (from newly built sources).
- Time-matched to actual usage.
Customers value their bespoke system design, premium hardware like Tesla Powerwall, and a Trustpilot rating of 4.8. Whether you want to install solar or just support ethical energy supply, Good Energy is ideal for those wanting true sustainability without compromise.
9. Ecotricity
Ecotricity pioneered the UK’s green energy movement in 1995 and continues to be one of the most ethically-driven and environmentally-committed suppliers. Known for its vegan-certified energy, Ecotricity avoids all animal byproducts in its electricity and gas supply.
Their energy is:
- 100% green electricity, generated from UK wind and solar sources.
- Carbon-neutral gas, with a blend of biomethane and offset natural gas.
- Fully invested into expanding renewable infrastructure – not for shareholder profit.
Ecotricity reinvests customer revenue into building new wind and solar parks, developing green gas mills, and expanding services like:
- Microtricity: Allows customers to export excess solar energy.
- Smart meters and online accounts for accurate usage tracking.
- Carbon footprint calculators and net zero consulting for businesses.
Their non-dividend model means profits go toward sustainability, not shareholders. They also run Ecotalk, a mobile phone network that supports wildlife charities, and have been recognised as the only vegan-certified energy company globally.
With a holistic focus on the planet, ethics, and innovation, Ecotricity is the go-to supplier for eco-conscious consumers wanting to align their lifestyle with their energy use.
10. Vaillant
While not a traditional energy supplier, Vaillant is a market leader in heating systems, including high-efficiency boilers, heat pumps, and home climate technologies. With over 150 years of innovation, Vaillant is now central to the UK’s clean heat transition.
In 2025, the company supports low-carbon home heating through:
- aroTHERM plus heat pumps, eligible for £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme grants.
- Smart heating controls to boost system efficiency.
- Cylinders, components, and solar thermal solutions for complete home setups.
Vaillant partners with major UK energy suppliers like OVO Energy to integrate its systems into smart tariffs that reduce costs and carbon output.
It also provides:
- A network of Vaillant Advance Installers for professional support.
- Extended service and repair plans, with 280 engineers nationwide.
- New smart cylinders designed for compact installations and energy efficiency.
Vaillant’s heating systems are rigorously tested under extreme weather conditions, ensuring durability and reliability.
As homes move away from gas and toward electric and hybrid solutions, Vaillant remains a crucial technology partner helping consumers transition to future-ready, eco-friendly heating.
Comparison Table for the Top 10 Energy Companies in the UK (2025 Edition)
| Energy Supplier | Tariff Type | Green Energy Offering | Customer Score Trustpilot or Which | Average Dual Fuel Cost Estimate |
| Octopus Energy | Fixed Variable Smart Tariffs | 100 Percent Renewable | Trustpilot 4.8 out of 5 | 1675 pounds per year |
| British Gas | Fixed Variable EV Tariffs | Green Add-on Option | Trustpilot 4.2 out of 5 | 1720 pounds per year |
| EON Next | Fixed EV Green Tariffs | 100 Percent Renewable | Trustpilot 4.5 out of 5 | 1695 pounds per year |
| EDF Energy | EV and Green Tariffs Smart Add-ons | Zero Carbon Mix including Nuclear and Renewables | Trustpilot 4.4 out of 5 | 1710 pounds per year |
| OVO Energy | Fixed Smart EV and Solar Tariffs | 100 Percent Renewable | Trustpilot 4.6 out of 5 | 1685 pounds per year |
| So Energy | Fixed Variable | 100 Percent Renewable | Trustpilot 4.4 out of 5 | 1690 pounds per year |
| Shell Energy | Fixed Pass-through Flex Tariffs | 100 Percent Renewable | Trustpilot 3.7 out of 5 | 1730 pounds per year |
| Good Energy | Smart EV Solar Export | Direct from Renewable Generators 100 Percent | Trustpilot 4.8 out of 5 | 1735 pounds per year |
| Ecotricity | Fixed EV Green Gas | 100 Percent Vegan Certified Green Supply | Trustpilot 4.1 out of 5 | 1745 pounds per year |
| Vaillant | Smart Heating Products Heat Pump Systems | Supports Renewable Heating Technologies | Trustpilot 4.0 out of 5 | 1,720 pounds per year |
Choosing the right energy provider in 2025 depends on your priorities, whether it’s cost, green energy commitment, or innovative features. Compare carefully to find a supplier that aligns with both your values and budget.
Conclusion
Choosing the best energy company in the UK for 2025 depends on your priorities. Whether it’s price, green credentials, or smart tech integration, the top suppliers offer something for every household.
The market continues to shift toward renewables, with many suppliers now making sustainability a standard.
By switching to a reliable provider, you can gain better value, improved service, and peace of mind. Take your time comparing plans to find one that aligns with your lifestyle and values.
FAQs About Top 10 Energy Companies UK
What should I consider before switching my energy supplier?
Compare tariff rates, customer reviews, green credentials, and contract terms before switching.
Are smaller UK energy companies as reliable as the big ones?
Yes, many smaller suppliers offer better service and greener energy than traditional providers.
How often can I change my energy supplier in the UK?
You can switch suppliers at any time, usually without fees if you’re not in a fixed contract.
Can I get a green energy tariff without paying more?
Yes, many providers now offer competitively priced green tariffs, sometimes cheaper than standard ones.
What happens if my energy supplier goes out of business?
Ofgem will automatically switch you to a new supplier without service interruption.
How do energy smart meters help with managing my bills?
Smart meters track real-time usage and help you control costs by identifying peak usage periods.
Are dual fuel tariffs always cheaper in the UK market?
Not always. It’s best to compare separate gas and electricity deals to see what works best for you.
