What we do

The electricity industry was privatised in 1990 to reduce the price of energy to customers while simultaneously driving up standards. In 1998 the energy supply side of the market was opened up to full competition, while strong legislation was brought in to regulate the distribution businesses.

UK Power 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 UK Power 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

Supply Companies

Energy Supply companies buy electricity in bulk from generation companies.

They pay distribution companies, such as UK Power Networks, to transport the electricity through the cables and power lines to 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.