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Introduction
Choosing the right energy supplier can make a significant difference in your home’s comfort, your wallet, and even your impact on the environment. Two major players in the UK energy market, British Gas and OVO Energy, both provide electricity and gas to millions of homes, offering essential services like smart meters, mobile apps, and fixed-rate energy plans. However, each has distinct strengths that cater to different consumer priorities.
British Gas, the UK’s largest energy supplier, is renowned for its longstanding reliability, consistent service, and fewer customer complaints. On the other hand, OVO Energy stands out for its commitment to sustainability, providing 100% renewable electricity on all fixed plans and innovative technology solutions like EV chargers, solar panels, and smart home integration. Understanding these differences, especially regarding customer service, eco-friendliness, and costs, can help you confidently choose the best energy provider to meet your household’s unique needs.
Differences Between Them
Green Energy
- OVO uses 100% green electricity on all fixed plans and offers extras like solar panels, EV chargers, and heat pumps.
- British Gas includes some green electricity (about 60%) in regular plans but also has options to go 100% green.
Customer Service
- OVO gets great reviews for its mobile app and installations, but some users say support can be slow.
- British Gas has fewer customer complaints and is often seen as more reliable for things like engineer visits and billing issues.
Side-by-Side Comparison: British Gas vs OVO Energy
| Question | British Gas | OVO Energy |
|---|---|---|
| Customer Service | Fewer complaints, more consistent engineer visits | Highly rated app, but slower support response |
| Green Energy | 60% renewable on standard plans, 100% on green tariffs | 100% renewable electricity on all fixed plans |
| Switching Time | Usually 5–15 working days, no service interruption | Usually 5–15 working days, no service interruption |
| Exit Fees | Up to £50 if ending a fixed plan early | £50–£95 if ending a fixed plan early |
| What You Need to Switch | Address, recent meter reading, bank details, current plan info | |
| Eco-Friendliness | Some green options focus more on traditional services | Fully green tariffs, EV chargers, solar & heat pump deals |
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Choosing Between British Gas and OVO
If you’re looking for a modern energy supplier that prioritizes sustainability, OVO Energy is a solid choice due to its commitment to providing 100% renewable electricity. It also appeals to those interested in technology-driven conveniences, offering smart meters, intuitive mobile apps, and specialized EV-friendly tariffs and solutions.
However, it’s important to note that while OVO excels in green initiatives and innovation, customers have occasionally reported experiencing slower customer service responses. Alternatively, British Gas is ideal if you prefer an established, reliable energy provider with a long-standing reputation. It consistently demonstrates fewer customer complaints and maintains straightforward terms, including lower exit fees, making it a safer choice for those who value stability, predictability, and hassle-free customer support.
What You Need to Switch
- Your current address and how much energy you use
- A recent meter reading
- Bank details for payment
- Check if your current plan has any cancellation fees
How the Switch Works
- Pick a new energy plan online.
- Sign up and provide your info.
- The new company handles everything, including telling your old supplier.
- You won’t lose power during the switch.
- You’ll get a final bill from your old supplier.
- It usually takes about 1 to 2 weeks to complete.
Final Thoughts
- British Gas is great if you want steady service and fewer issues.
- OVO is better if going green and using smart tech are your top priorities but you might need a bit more patience when it comes to customer support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which energy company has better customer service, British Gas or OVO?
OVO gets high ratings for its app and how easy it is to install smart tools. But some people say their support takes a while to respond. British Gas has fewer complaints and is more reliable if you want quick help or a technician visit.
Do both companies offer green energy?
Yes, they both do. OVO gives 100% renewable electricity on fixed plans. British Gas includes some green energy in regular plans and offers fully renewable options too.
How long does switching take?
Switching energy suppliers usually takes 5 to 15 working days. You won’t lose power; your new company handles everything behind the scenes.
Are there any surprise fees for switching?
No hidden fees if you’re just switching. But if you’re leaving a fixed plan early, both companies may charge an exit fee, usually around £40 to £95 depending on the plan.
Reviewed and edited by Albert Fang.
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Article Title: British Gas vs. OVO Energy: Comparing Prices, Service, and Green Options
https://fangwallet.com/2025/07/13/british-gas-vs-ovo-energy-comparing-prices-service-and-green-options/The FangWallet Promise
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