Nearly 84% of Brits doubt energy prices will return to pre-2021 levels

A recent survey by tado° reveals that 84% of British households doubt energy prices will revert to pre-2021 levels, reflecting widespread consumer concern over rising costs. The survey's release aligns with the UK's announcement of a 1.2% increase in the energy price cap for January 2024, now set at £1,738, marking a significant rise from winter 2021-22 levels. This trend underscores the lasting impact of geopolitical and economic factors, including the war in Ukraine, on energy prices.

UK electricity networks ready for Storm Bert

Storm Bert is expected to bring severe weather conditions, including snow, ice, and high winds, across the UK. The Met Office has issued yellow and amber warnings, while the Energy Networks Association has activated weather response plans. Electricity networks are preparing for potential disruptions by increasing staffing and relocating equipment. Customers are advised to follow the 'Prepare-Care-Share' guidance, which includes having torches and non-perishable food ready, disconnecting hazardous appliances during power cuts, and reporting power line damage via the emergency helpline.

EDF launches fixed tariff cheaper than January price cap

EDF has launched a new 12-month fixed tariff, Simply Fixed Direct 1y Jan26, priced at £1,608 annually, making it the cheapest among major energy suppliers and £130 below Ofgem's January 2025 price cap. The introduction comes amid rising energy prices driven by seasonal demand, cold weather, and geopolitical tensions in Ukraine and the Middle East. EDF anticipates further price cap increases in April, though this could change with wholesale price fluctuations. The tariff, which does not require a smart meter and has no exit fees, may be withdrawn if global energy prices remain volatile.

Hydrogen storage could cut UK energy costs by £1bn annually

A report by Centrica and FTI Consulting highlights the potential for hydrogen storage to save the UK up to £1 billion annually by 2050, aiding in managing renewable energy intermittency and stabilizing the energy grid. Centrica plans to invest £2 billion in repurposing the Rough gas storage site for hydrogen, contingent on government and regulatory support. Chris O’Shea, Centrica's CEO, emphasizes the need for regulatory approval to advance this initiative, positioning hydrogen as a key component in a net-zero energy system.

British Gas offers £65 electricity credit on selected Samsung appliances

British Gas has introduced an offer providing up to £65 in electricity credit for customers purchasing selected Samsung appliances. This credit is available to both new and existing customers and can be claimed by submitting purchase details on the British Gas website. The offer covers various appliances and is part of a collaboration with Samsung, integrating the SmartThings app with the British Gas PeakSave programme, which encourages energy usage during times of higher renewable energy availability.

Government unveils Warm Homes Plan to slash bills and boost cleaner heating

The UK Government has introduced the Warm Homes Plan to reduce energy bills and promote environmentally friendly heating. The initiative includes grants for heat pumps, support for low-income families, and simplified planning rules to encourage heat pump installation. The plan aims to upgrade 300,000 homes next year, with funding for energy-saving improvements and increased support for renters and social housing residents. Investment in British manufacturing, such as a £5 million boost to Ideal Heating for heat pump production, is part of the strategy. The government is also consulting on improving energy efficiency in rental properties and new heating systems.

National Grid names new Strategy and Regulation Officer

Steve Smith has been appointed as the new Chief Strategy and Regulation Officer at National Grid, effective immediately. He has been leading the strategy and regulatory work on an interim basis since August 2024, following Ben Wilson's move to National Grid Ventures. Smith, who joined National Grid in 2021, brings over 25 years of experience in energy, finance, and regulatory strategy, having previously held senior roles at Lloyds Banking Group, Ofgem, and American Electric Power. National Grid CEO John Pettigrew emphasized the importance of Smith's leadership in driving the company's ambitious investment plans aimed at economic growth, job creation, and decarbonization.

Good Energy to pay customers for using heat pumps and batteries flexibly

Good Energy has launched FlexiRewards, a pilot scheme that pays customers for automating energy flexibility using heat pumps and batteries. The initiative, which builds on the previous Power Pause program, automates energy use adjustments during peak demand, offering financial incentives of £5 to £20 monthly. The 12-month trial is available to select customers with Good Energy-installed devices, aiming to enhance energy efficiency and reduce peak demand.

Crown Estate invests £7.3m in offshore wind and marine research

The Crown Estate has allocated £7.3 million to five research projects under the £50 million Offshore Wind Evidence and Change Programme, in collaboration with the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and Defra. These projects aim to advance the UK's net-zero energy transition while protecting marine ecosystems. Key initiatives include Disco Scallops, which tests a new fishing technique, and the ECOCHANGE project, which examines ecosystem changes due to offshore wind farms. Other projects focus on enhancing marine heritage data access, mitigating environmental impacts, and studying underwater noise in the Celtic Sea. The programme seeks to fill knowledge gaps, accelerate consenting processes, and promote sustainable growth in renewable energy.

Octopus Energy enters France’s offshore wind market with new joint venture

Octopus Energy has partnered with Skyborn Renewables to enter France's offshore wind market through a joint venture, participating in the country's next offshore wind tender. This move marks Octopus' expansion in the offshore wind sector, with plans to invest $20 billion by 2030. France aims to increase its offshore wind capacity significantly by 2050, presenting substantial growth opportunities.