Welcome to our comprehensive FAQ section for Octopus Energy. Whether you’re curious about the company’s history, energy tariffs, or green credentials, we’ve got all your questions covered.

Can I refer a friend to Octopus Energy?

Yes! As an Octopus Energy customer, you can refer friends through your online dashboard. You’ll receive a £50 credit, and your friend will too, for a total split of £100 when they sign up using your unique referral link. Sign up here.

What is an Octopus Energy Referral Code?

People often search for Octopus Energy Referral Codes, however the company does not use codes such as voucher codes, instead it uses Links as described below.

What is an Octopus Energy Referral Link?

An Octopus Energy Referral Link is a unique URL provided to each Octopus Energy customer that allows them to refer friends, family, or anyone interested in switching to Octopus Energy. When someone signs up using your referral link, both you and the new customer receive £50 in account credit (Just like the big green links on our site!).

The referral link is accessible through the customer’s online dashboard, making it easy to share via email, social media, or messaging platforms. It’s a simple way for customers to earn rewards while helping others switch to green energy.

What are the Benefits of Joining Octopus Energy?

Octopus Energy is a Which Recommended Energy supplier, with Award Winning Customer Service, Fantastic customer service, consistently offers great prices and tariffs to its customers and offers 100% renewable electricity.

Watch the following video for more:

Is Octopus Energy a Which? Recommended Energy Supplier?

Yes, Octopus Energy is a Which? Recommended Energy Supplier. Octopus has received this accolade for seven years in a row, including in 2024. It is recognized for its high levels of customer satisfaction, transparency in pricing, and commitment to renewable energy. In the latest Which? survey, Octopus Energy earned 5 stars in customer satisfaction, highlighting its superior service compared to other energy providers.

This designation is awarded based on rigorous assessments, including customer feedback, pricing, customer service, and company practices, making Octopus Energy one of the top choices for UK energy consumers. Click here to read more about Octopus Energy’s Which Recommended Energy Supplier Status.

Does Octopus Energy Have Good Customer Service?

Yes, Octopus Energy is known for having good customer service. The company consistently receives high ratings for customer satisfaction, often outperforming many competitors in surveys conducted by organizations like Which? and other consumer advocacy groups. Here are some key points about Octopus Energy’s customer service:

1. Responsive Support: Customers report that Octopus Energy is quick to respond to inquiries, whether through phone, email, or social media.
2. Transparency: The company is praised for its transparent pricing and clear communication, helping customers understand their bills and energy usage.
3. User-Friendly Platform: Octopus Energy offers an intuitive online dashboard and app, making it easy for customers to manage their accounts, submit meter readings, and access support.
4. Which? Recommendations: Octopus has been recognized as a Which? Recommended Provider for several consecutive years, which is a strong indicator of its customer service quality.
5. Customer-Centric Policies: The company actively works to support vulnerable customers and has various measures in place to assist those in need.

Overall, Octopus Energy has established a strong reputation for customer service within the energy sector, click here to read more.

Does Octopus Energy Have Good Reviews?

Yes, Octopus Energy is rated 4.8/5 on Trustpilot based on over 400,000 reviews! With high customer satisfaction ratings, positive feedback for transparency and customer service, recognition as a Which? Recommended Provider, and a strong commitment to renewable energy solutions it is no wonder the company is so highly rated!

Is Octopus Energy good value for money?

Octopus Energy consistently strives to offer customers great prices, both in terms of introductory rates and tariffs as well as offering transparency and clear rates for loyal customers. Tying their tariffs back to the retail price of electricity and gas means that it is as low as possible. Click here to read more about how Octopus Energy keeps prices low.

Can I refer a business to Octopus Energy?

Yes, you can refer a business to Octopus Energy using a referral link, similar to how you would refer a residential customer, and both you and the business will receive £100 each as a reward for the referral. Click here to find out more about business referrals.

Business services they offers:

• 100% renewable energy for companies looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
• Customizable tariffs and pricing options to meet the specific needs of businesses.
• Tools to help businesses monitor and optimize energy consumption, promoting sustainability and cost savings.
• They work with small businesses, large corporations, and everything in between, helping them manage their energy usage efficiently.

When was Octopus Energy founded?

Octopus Energy was founded in August 2015, with operations beginning in December 2015. Although relatively new, it has quickly grown to become a major player in the UK energy market, competing with long-established companies. Currently it is the second largest energy provider in the UK.

Who founded Octopus Energy?

Octopus Energy was founded by Greg Jackson and Pete Miller in 2015. Greg Jackson currently serves as the CEO of the company, leading Octopus Energy’s growth and its focus on providing affordable, renewable energy to customers.

Who is the CEO of Octopus Energy?

Octopus Energy was founded by Greg Jackson and Pete Miller. Greg Jackson serves as the current CEO and has been a driving force behind the company’s success.

Where is Octopus Energy Headquartered?

Octopus Energy is headquartered in London, with additional offices in Warwick, Brighton, and Leicester. Internationally, they have expanded into the USA, Germany, and Australia, demonstrating their global ambition.

In Which Markets Does Octopus Energy Operate?

Octopus Energy operates in United Kingdom (their primary market), Germany, United States, Australia, New Zealand, Japan (through a partnership with Tokyo Gas) and Spain (recent expansion). These countries reflect Octopus Energy’s growing international presence as they continue to expand their green energy services globally.

How has Octopus Energy grown its customer base?

Octopus Energy has achieved rapid growth by acquiring several smaller energy companies, gaining customers from companies that ceased trading, and becoming the energy provider for well-known brands like M&S and Coop. Notable acquisitions include: Affect Energy in 2018, GB Energy and Flow Energy in 2019, ENGIE UK and Upside Energy in 2020. Octopus company was also appointed to take over customers from failed suppliers like Iresa Limited by Ofgem and expanded into new markets through partnerships, such as with Coop Energy and London Power.

Click here to read more on Octopus Energy in the News Headlines.

Which energy companies has Octopus Energy acquired?

Octopus Energy has acquired several energy companies to fuel its growth, some of these were: Shell Energy, Bulb, Plum Energie, SATO Luce e Gas, Avro Energy, Affect Energy and Evolve Energy.

It has also been appointed to take over multiple failed companies by Ofgem.

Is Octopus Energy a unicorn company?

Yes, Octopus Energy became a “unicorn” (a privately held startup valued at over £1 billion) in 2020 after securing a £270 million investment from Origin Energy in Australia. Thanks to a subsequent partnership with Tokyo Gas, it achieved “double unicorn” status.

How can I contact Octopus Energy?

You can reach Octopus Energy via phone, email or any of their social media channels. For contact details, visit the contact page.

How green is Octopus Energy?

Octopus Energy is committed to sustainability and reducing carbon emissions. Key initiatives include:

• Investment in solar energy through its parent company, Octopus Group.
• Support for various renewable energy projects.
• Encouraging households and businesses to generate and sell energy back to the grid.
• Development of cutting-edge low-carbon technologies.
• Founding the Future Energy Research Centre.
• Tree planting initiatives to offset carbon emissions.
• Special tariffs for electric vehicle (EV) owners, promoting the use of clean energy.

Read more about their commitment to 100% carbon-neutral electricity here.

Does Octopus Energy supply gas?

Yes, Octopus Energy supplies gas alongside its 100% renewable electricity. While the company’s long-term focus is on a sustainable, all-electric future, it recognizes that many households still rely on gas.

Does Octopus Energy supply electricity?

Yes, Octopus Energy supplies electricity sourced solely from renewable sources to both individuals and business across the UK as well as other markets they operate in.

Does Octopus Energy supply green electricity?

Yes, Octopus Energy’s primary service is the supply of 100% renewable electricity, generated from sources like wind, solar, and hydro, not nuclear. Click here to find out more about how renewable energy works.

Does Octopus Energy offer smart meters?

Yes, many Octopus customers already have smart meters installed. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the rollout has been delayed, but Octopus Energy is actively working to install meters where possible.

What tariffs does Octopus Energy offer?

Octopus Energy provides several competitive tariffs to meet different customer needs, such as specialised tariffs for EV or Solar Panel owners, tariffs that track the wholesale cost of energy or tariffs that promote use of energy during off-peak hours. Check out the full list of tariffs and find the right one for you here.

Is Octopus Energy cheaper than other providers?

Octopus Energy consistently ranks well in customer surveys and value-for-money ratings. Below are comparisons to other providers.

Is Octopus Energy Cheaper than British Gas?

Yes, Octopus Energy is often cheaper than British Gas on average. As of the latest comparison, Octopus Energy’s standard variable tariff is about £121 cheaper annually than British Gas. Octopus also consistently scores higher in customer satisfaction surveys, with Octopus Energy receiving 4 out of 5 stars for value for money compared to British Gas’ 2 out of 5 stars.

Is Octopus Energy Cheaper than EDF Energy?

While direct pricing comparisons vary, Octopus Energy is often considered better value than EDF Energy. In the Which? 2024 survey, EDF ranked 20th out of 25 companies and received only 2 out of 5 stars for value for money, while Octopus Energy scored 4 out of 5 stars, indicating better overall pricing and satisfaction.

Is Octopus Energy Cheaper than E.ON UK?

Although specific pricing may fluctuate, Octopus Energy has generally been cheaper than E.ON UK. E.ON ranked 22nd out of 25 energy suppliers in the Which? 2024 customer survey, receiving 2 out of 5 stars for value for money. Octopus Energy, in contrast, achieved 4 stars for value for money, signalling a more cost-effective and reliable option for many customers.

Is Octopus Energy Cheaper than Scottish Power?

Yes, Octopus Energy is generally cheaper than Scottish Power. In the 2024 Which? survey, Scottish Power ranked 24th out of 25, with only 1 out of 5 stars for value for money. Octopus Energy, with 4 stars, stands as a more affordable and higher-rated provider compared to Scottish Power.

Is Octopus Energy Cheaper than OVO Energy?

Octopus Energy is slightly cheaper than OVO Energy. A recent study found that Octopus Energy customers pay about £8 less per month compared to OVO Energy customers. Additionally, Octopus Energy scored 4 out of 5 stars for value for money, while OVO Energy scored 3 stars.

Is Octopus Energy Cheaper than Ecotricity?

While both Octopus Energy and Ecotricity are recognized for their commitment to renewable energy, Octopus Energy tends to be more competitively priced. In the 2024 Which? energy supplier ranking, Ecotricity scored 72% overall compared to Octopus Energy’s 73%, but Octopus consistently receives higher customer satisfaction ratings and value-for-money scores.

What makes Octopus Energy different from traditional energy providers?

Octopus Energy sets itself apart by offering:

• 100% renewable electricity.
• Transparent pricing, especially through tariffs like the Octopus Tracker.
• Superior customer service, backed by multiple awards, including the Which? Recommended Provider.
• A focus on technological innovation, like flexible tariffs and smart integration with home energy systems.
• Octopus Energy’s approach to energy supply emphasizes simplicity, sustainability, and savings, making them a leader in the new energy era.

Does Octopus Energy have a tariff for electric vehicle owners?

Yes, the Octopus Go tariff is specifically designed for electric vehicle (EV) owners. It offers:

• Cheap overnight electricity rates for EV charging.
• Lower rates during off-peak hours, making it one of the most affordable options for EV users in the UK.
• The ability to track and control EV charging directly via the Octopus Energy app.
• This tariff is great for households looking to charge their EVs sustainably while minimizing costs.

What is the Octopus Energy Fan Club?

The Octopus Energy Fan Club is a community initiative that allows customers to access cheaper electricity when local wind turbines are generating power. In selected regions with participating turbines, customers can save up to 50% on their electricity rates during periods of strong wind.
The initiative reflects Octopus’s focus on decentralizing energy generation and empowering local communities with renewable energy.

What is the Kraken technology platform?

Octopus Energy’s Kraken is a proprietary technology platform that manages customer accounts, energy billing, and real-time pricing. Kraken:

• Helps Octopus deliver excellent customer service efficiently.
• Provides a flexible infrastructure that allows for seamless integration with new energy innovations.
• Is being licensed by other energy companies globally, making it a key asset for Octopus Energy.
• Kraken is central to Octopus Energy’s ability to scale its business while maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction.

How does Octopus Energy support renewable energy generation?

Octopus Energy supports renewable energy generation in several ways:

• Investing in and developing solar, wind, and hydro projects through its parent company, Octopus Group.
• Encouraging customers to generate their own renewable energy through solar panels, offering buyback tariffs where customers can sell excess electricity back to the grid.
• Partnering with other organizations to research and develop next-generation low-carbon technologies.
• By supporting both large-scale renewable projects and individual household initiatives, Octopus Energy is helping build a more sustainable energy future.

Click here to find out more about Octopus Energy’s Green investments.

What is the Octopus Energy Centre for Net Zero?

The Centre for Net Zero is Octopus Energy’s research arm dedicated to exploring the path to a fully decarbonized energy system. The Centre partners with governments, universities, and other organizations to:

• Study the impact of renewable energy on the grid.
• Develop data-driven models to achieve net-zero carbon emissions.
• Innovate solutions for integrating electric vehicles and smart home technologies into the energy system.
• The Centre for Net Zero is a cornerstone of Octopus Energy’s commitment to sustainability and future energy solutions.

What awards has Octopus Energy won?

Octopus Energy has won numerous awards, including:

• Which? Recommended Provider multiple times for its transparency, customer service, and value for money.
• RE100 Leadership Award for its commitment to 100% renewable energy.
• Tech Track 100: Recognized as one of the fastest-growing tech companies in the UK.
• These awards highlight Octopus’s dedication to providing top-tier service and driving innovation in the energy sector.

Does Octopus Energy offer any discounts or promotions?

In addition to their £50 referral credit, Octopus Energy frequently offers various promotions, such as:

• Discounted rates for switching to smart meters.
• Special tariffs for EV owners, such as Octopus Go.
• Occasionally running seasonal discounts or tailored promotions, depending on market conditions.

Be sure to check their website for the latest offers or promotions.

Can I monitor my energy usage with Octopus Energy?

Yes, Octopus Energy offers several ways for customers to monitor their energy usage, including:

• Smart meters: These track real-time usage and help customers better manage their energy consumption.
• Octopus Energy app: Customers can view daily, weekly, and monthly energy usage, and track costs associated with consumption.
• For customers on the Agile Octopus tariff, the app provides a half-hourly breakdown of energy prices to help them shift usage to off-peak times.
• This transparency helps customers take control of their energy consumption and optimize savings.

Click here to learn about smart thermostats and controlling your home energy usage.

Does Octopus Energy provide energy-saving tips?

Yes, Octopus Energy regularly shares energy-saving tips with its customers to help them reduce consumption and lower their bills. These include:

• Using smart home devices and timers to optimize energy use.
• Setting heating systems more efficiently, especially during colder months.
• Tips for electric vehicle charging to minimize energy costs.
• Regular updates on how to take advantage of off-peak pricing.
• Their goal is to empower customers to make smarter energy choices that are good for the planet and their wallets.

Click here to read our comprehensive guide to save on your household energy bills.

What is Octopus Energy’s Environmental Impact?

Octopus Energy is committed to reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change. Key environmental impacts include:

• Providing 100% renewable electricity to all customers.
• Offsetting carbon emissions for the gas supplied, ensuring carbon neutrality.
• Investing in wind and solar farms across the UK, with plans to expand internationally.
• Supporting tree-planting programs and other carbon-reduction initiatives to restore ecosystems.
• They strive to be an industry leader in green energy, making sustainability a core part of their mission.

Does Octopus Energy offer energy plans for renters?

Yes, Octopus Energy provides flexible energy plans tailored for renters, who often have unique needs, such as:

• No exit fees on their Flexible Octopus tariff, which allows renters to switch without being locked into long-term contracts.
• The ability to transfer energy accounts easily when moving homes.
• Smart meters to monitor energy usage, even in rental properties, ensuring tenants can optimize their consumption and reduce costs.
• This flexibility makes Octopus a great choice for renters looking for environmentally-friendly energy options.

What is Octopus Energy’s stance on nuclear energy?

Octopus Energy focuses on renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and hydro power, rather than nuclear energy. They believe that the future lies in renewable technologies, which are more sustainable and carry less risk compared to nuclear energy.
While some energy companies integrate nuclear as part of their low-carbon strategy, Octopus Energy maintains its dedication to clean, renewable solutions.

Does Octopus Energy provide heating solutions?

Yes, Octopus Energy has developed the Octopus Heat Pump initiative. This service offers:

• Energy-efficient heat pumps to replace traditional gas boilers, reducing household carbon emissions.
• Installation services and maintenance for heat pumps, making the transition to greener heating easier for homeowners.
• Financial incentives and government grants available to help cover installation costs, making heat pumps more accessible (Read about the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) here).
• Heat pumps are an important step towards electrifying heating and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Can I get solar panels through Octopus Energy?

Yes, Octopus Energy offers solar panel installations through its partnerships, helping customers generate renewable energy and potentially save on electricity bills. The Octopus Outgoing tariff makes solar an even more attractive investment for households looking to generate their own renewable energy, especially when combined with the a battery pack. Furthermore customers can sell any surplus energy generated back to the grid. Click here to learn more about getting solar with Octopus Energy.

Does Octopus Offer Battery Pack Installation alongside Solar?

Yes, Octopus Energy offers battery pack installations alongside solar panels, allowing customers to store excess energy generated by their solar systems for later use, maximizing energy efficiency and savings.

Can Octopus Customers with Solar sell back to the Grid?

The Octopus Outgoing tariff is designed for customers who generate their own energy through solar panels or other renewable sources. Key features include:

• Payment for exported energy: Octopus buys back excess electricity that you generate and do not use.
• Dynamic pricing: With the Agile Octopus Outgoing option, customers are paid based on half-hourly market rates, maximizing returns when the grid needs more power.
• This tariff incentivizes renewable energy generation and ensures customers benefit from contributing to the grid.

How does Octopus Energy support electric vehicle charging infrastructure?

Octopus Energy is heavily involved in the development of EV charging infrastructure. Their initiatives include:

• Rolling out public charging points across the UK through partnerships with EV charging networks.
• Offering EV tariffs like Octopus Go to incentivize overnight charging.
• Integrating with smart home systems and EV charging technology, allowing customers to optimize when they charge to save money and reduce grid strain.
• Octopus is actively working to make EV ownership more accessible and affordable, encouraging the shift to greener transport.

Does Octopus Energy offer prepayment meters?

Yes, Octopus Energy offers prepayment meters for customers who prefer or require them. Features include:

• Easy top-ups online, via the Octopus app, or in local stores.
• Flexible payment options and clear communication regarding usage and balances.
• A focus on helping customers move to a smart prepayment meter, allowing for more efficient tracking and management of energy use.
• This ensures that prepayment customers still enjoy the same level of service and access to green energy as others.

What is the Warm Home Discount, and does Octopus Energy offer it?

The Warm Home Discount is a government scheme that provides financial support to vulnerable households during the winter months to help with heating costs. Octopus Energy participates in this scheme by:

• Offering eligible customers a £150 rebate on their energy bill.
• Simplifying the application process, making it easy for qualifying households to receive their discount.
• This program reflects Octopus’s commitment to affordability and supporting vulnerable customers.

Click here to read more on the Winter Fuel Payment Scheme.

Can I move my Octopus Energy account to a new property?

Yes, moving your Octopus Energy account to a new property is simple:
You can transfer your account online or via the Octopus app.
Octopus offers guidance on providing accurate meter readings at your old and new homes, ensuring a smooth transition.
If you need a different tariff based on your new home’s energy needs, Octopus will help find the best option for you.
This seamless process makes Octopus Energy an ideal choice for movers.

How secure is my data with Octopus Energy?

Octopus Energy takes data security seriously. They use advanced encryption and adhere to strict GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) standards. Key security measures include:

• End-to-end encryption for customer data and communications.
• Two-factor authentication for account access and management.
• Regular security audits to ensure systems remain up to date and protected against emerging threats.
• Customers can trust that their data is handled responsibly and securely.

What happens if I can’t pay my energy bill?

Octopus Energy provides support to customers who are struggling with their bills, including:

• Flexible payment plans tailored to individual circumstances.
• Guidance on financial support schemes, such as the Warm Home Discount and government assistance programs.
• Compassionate customer service to help manage outstanding payments without disconnection.
• Their focus is on helping customers manage their energy costs without undue stress.

How has Octopus Energy acquired its customers?

Octopus Energy has seen quick growth and has acquired customers by purchasing other companies energy companies, inheriting customers from other energy companies that have ceased trading and has replaces other energy companies as the energy supplier for certain brands such as M&S and Coop. This has allowed Octopus to grow fast and quickly reach over 1 million UK customers.
It has had an energy procurement deal with Shell, it has inherited customers from Iresa Limited after it ceased trading, it replaced SSE as M&S energy supplier and purchased Affect Energy in 2018.
In 2019 Octopus entered into an agreement with Coop resulting in the gain of over 300,000 customers allowing the company to pass the 1 million UK customer mark. It also purchased the GB Energy and Flow Energy brands. 2020 saw the launch of London Power the purchase of Engie UK and Upside energy. Octopus has also expanded overseas.

Why do Energy prices fluctuate?

Energy prices fluctuate due to a wide variety of factors such as the cost of wholesale gas and electricity as well as demand and renewable generation. These fluctuations are often affected by supply chain and global political issues, such as COVID-19 or the War in Ukraine.

Is Octopus Energy cheaper than British Gas?

Octopus Energy’s standard variable tariff is about £121 pounds cheaper than British Gas. British Gas ranked 18th out of 25 in the Which? Annual customer survey and received 2 out of 5 starts for value for money against Octopus Energy’s 4.

Is Octopus Energy cheaper than EDF Energy?

Whilst we do not have access to a direct price comparison EDF was ranked 20th out of 25 on a Which? Annual customer survey and it received 2 out of 5 stars for value for money whilst Octopus received 4.

Is Octopus Energy cheaper than E.ON UK?

Whilst we do not have a direct comparison Eon ranked 22nd out of 25 on a Which? Annual customer survey and it received 2 out of 5 stars for value for money whilst Octopus received 4.

Is Octopus Energy cheaper than Npower?

Npower ranked 25th out of 25 in the Which? Annual customer survey and received 1 out of 5 stars for value for money whilst Octopus Energy received 4. No direct comparison was available.

Is Octopus Energy cheaper than Scottish Power?

Scottish Power ranked 24th out of 25 in the Which? Annual customer survey and received 1 out of 5 stars for value for money whilst Octopus Energy received 4. No direct comparison was available.

Is Octopus Energy cheaper than SSE?

Comparative researched found Octopus to be cheaper than SSE. The research found that a typical UK household would accrue £81.39 in costs per month with Octopus Energy whilst being charged £88.89 by SSE for the same gas and electricity usage. Meanwhile SSE came joint 22nd out of 25 energy companies in the Which? annual customer survey with a value for money rating of 1 out of 5 stars compared to Octopuses 4!

Is Octopus Energy cheaper than OVO?

Research found Octopus to be better for the cost (£8 less a month).
Ovo came joint 8th in the annual Which? customer survey out of 25 with 3/5 stars for value for money whilst Octopus Energy achieved 4.

What are Octopus Energy’s future plans for growth?

Octopus Energy has ambitious plans for future growth, which include:

• Expanding internationally: Already operating in several countries, they aim to continue growing their global footprint.
• Investing in next-generation energy technology, such as advanced grid management tools and artificial intelligence to optimize energy distribution.
• Scaling their renewable energy projects to further drive the decarbonization of the energy sector.
• Octopus Energy’s vision for the future involves becoming a global leader in renewable energy and sustainability.

Additional Questions?

For any other questions not covered here, visit the Octopus Energy Help & FAQ page [External Link].

Pricing and ratings information sourced from Which? [External Link] during Novemeber 2024.