Ofgem Launches 'Green' Labelling

• News
• Published: 09 Feb 2010 in Household and Gas Electricity

The energy watchdog has introduced a new labelling scheme to help consumers measure the performance of "green" electricity tariffs.

Ofgem has launched its "green energy certified" label to help customers decide which companies are taking extra steps to reduce emissions.

Energy suppliers will have to show evidence that their tariffs are making a difference in order to gain the label.

The scheme aims to reassure householders and small businesses that paying for green energy is actually reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

In the past, consumers paying for the green tariffs may have been simply supporting suppliers in meeting their existing Government requirements to boost renewable energy and improve energy efficiency.

Energy companies are required to source increasing amounts of energy from renewable sources under the Renewables Obligation and provide energy efficiency programmes - requirements that were being repackaged as green tariffs for which customers pay more.

Now, to be certified under the new scheme, suppliers will have to demonstrate to an independent panel of experts that their schemes are in addition to their existing obligations.