The electricity industry was privatised in 1991. Two of the aims of privatisation were to reduce the price of energy to customers while simultaneously driving up standards. This was achieved by opening up the energy supply side of the market to full competition, while regulating the distribution businesses.
EDF Energy Networks is a distribution company. Our role is very different to that of an energy supplier.
Keeping the lights on
Distribution Companies
Distribution companies, such as EDF Energy Networks, operate and maintain the electrical supply system in particular areas.
Regardless of who your supplier is, it is our network that gets the power to you. There is no alternative. You can look at the maps in ‘Where we work’ to see if we distribute energy to you, or alternatively look at the top of your bill.
Providing you with electricity and gas
Supply Companies
Energy Supply companies buy electricity in bulk from generation companies.
They pay distribution companies, such as EDF Energy Networks, to transport the electricity through the wires to your home or business.
There are approximately 20 energy supply companies who can sell electricity (and gas) to anybody anywhere in the UK. This means you can choose which energy supplier you buy from regardless of where you live.