No, the fuel commonly referred to as British gas (natural gas) is not a renewable energy source, as it is a fossil fuel. However, British Gas, the energy supplier, does provide electricity that is matched to 100% renewable sources.
Understanding Natural Gas: A Non-Renewable Fossil Fuel
Natural gas, often colloquially referred to as "British gas" in the context of household energy, is a fossil fuel. This means it was formed over millions of years from the remains of ancient marine plants and animals, buried deep beneath the Earth's surface.
- Formation: Natural gas primarily consists of methane and is extracted from underground reservoirs.
- Non-Renewable: Because its formation takes geological timescales far exceeding human lifespans, it is considered a non-renewable resource. Once extracted and consumed, it cannot be replenished in a meaningful timeframe.
- Environmental Impact: Burning natural gas releases carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere, a significant greenhouse gas contributing to climate change. While it burns cleaner than coal or oil, it is still a major contributor to global emissions.
For more information on natural gas, you can consult resources like the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
British Gas (The Company) and its Renewable Electricity Offering
While the fuel natural gas is non-renewable, British Gas, as an energy supply company, has made commitments regarding its electricity supply. The company offers 100% renewable electricity to its customers.
This means that every unit of electricity British Gas supplies to you during your contract is matched to electricity from a natural renewable energy source. They hold the necessary number of Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin (REGOs) as evidence of this supply. REGOs certify that a specific amount of electricity has been generated from renewable sources like wind, solar, or hydro power.
Key Distinction: It's crucial to differentiate between the type of fuel (natural gas) and the company's overall energy supply mix. British Gas offers both:
- Natural Gas: This remains a fossil fuel and is not renewable.
- Electricity: Supplied electricity is matched to 100% renewable sources, making it a greener option for powering homes.
Renewable vs. Non-Renewable Energy Sources
To clarify the difference, here's a quick overview of energy types:
| Energy Type | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Renewable | Naturally replenished on a human timescale. | Solar, Wind, Hydroelectric, Geothermal, Biomass |
| Non-Renewable | Finite resources that take millions of years to form and cannot be replenished quickly. | Natural Gas, Coal, Oil, Nuclear (due to finite uranium) |
Green Gas Alternatives
While traditional natural gas is non-renewable, there are emerging renewable gas options available in the market, often referred to as "green gas" or "biomethane."
- Biomethane: Produced from organic waste materials like agricultural residues or sewage through a process called anaerobic digestion. This gas is chemically identical to natural gas but has a renewable origin.
- Hydrogen: Green hydrogen, produced using renewable electricity, is another potential future renewable gas for heating and power.
These renewable gas alternatives are distinct from the natural gas British Gas typically supplies to homes for heating and cooking, though some suppliers may offer tariffs that include a percentage of green gas.
Practical Steps for a Greener Home Energy Footprint
If you're looking to reduce your household's environmental impact, consider these actions:
- Choose a Renewable Electricity Tariff: Opt for energy suppliers, like British Gas, who offer 100% renewable electricity.
- Improve Home Insulation: Reduce the need for heating by ensuring your home is well-insulated, which can decrease natural gas consumption.
- Upgrade Appliances: Switch to energy-efficient appliances and boilers.
- Explore Low-Carbon Heating: Investigate alternatives to natural gas boilers, such as heat pumps, which are powered by electricity and can be run on renewable electricity.
