Ofgem to review green energy tariffs

The UK's energy regulator it is to look at the scheme which ensures that electricity supplied on so-called "green tariffs" are from renewable sources

Ofgem has confirmed it will review the guidelines governing the green energy supply scheme, which aims to provide assurance to consumers that the energy they are buying through a “green” tariff comes from a renewable source and has an environmental benefit over and above that covered by suppliers’ existing renewables obligation.

The voluntary scheme started in 2010 and there are now 10 certified green tariffs, provided by seven suppliers.

Ofgem says it is reviewing the guidelines because the growth of non-certified green tariffs is outpacing that of certified ones, raising implications for continued consumer clarity over the nature of green offers.

The regulator is also concerned that the current fuel mix disclosure arrangements – which include details of the mix of fuels used to produce electricity, as well as certain environmental information – may not be delivering sufficient transparency for consumers.