ScottishPower Explained: Tariffs, Reviews, and Green Energy for 2025
As one of the UK's most established energy companies, ScottishPower supplies millions of homes with gas and electricity. With a significant focus on renewable energy generation and a wide portfolio of services extending beyond simple energy supply, it remains a major player in the market.
This guide explores everything you need to know about ScottishPower, from the types of tariffs it offers to its customer service reputation and green credentials, helping you decide if it's the right supplier for your home.
1. Who is ScottishPower?
Founded in 1990 following the privatisation of the UK's electricity industry, ScottishPower quickly became one of the "big six" energy suppliers. Though its name suggests a purely Scottish focus, the company serves customers across England, Scotland, and Wales.
In 2007, ScottishPower was acquired by the Spanish multinational electric utility company, Iberdrola. This parent company is a global leader in wind power, and its influence is evident in ScottishPower's strong commitment to renewable energy generation. The supplier has positioned itself as a pioneer in green energy, having invested heavily in wind farms and divested from coal and gas-fired power stations.
2. Understanding ScottishPower Energy Tariffs
ScottishPower aims to cater to a broad range of customers by offering several types of energy plans. Whether you want the security of a fixed price or the flexibility of a variable rate, there are options available for both dual fuel (gas and electricity) and single fuel customers.
Tariff Type | Key Features | Best For |
---|---|---|
Fixed-Rate Tariffs | Your price per unit of energy (kWh) is locked in for a specified contract period, often 12 or 24 months. | Customers who want predictable energy costs and protection from market price rises. |
Standard Variable Tariff (SVT) | The price you pay per unit of energy can rise or fall. The rate is governed by Ofgem's energy price cap. | Households that prefer not to be tied into a contract and value the flexibility to switch at any time without penalty. |
Specialist Tariffs | These are designed for specific needs, such as the EV Saver tariff, which offers cheaper overnight electricity for electric vehicle charging. | Owners of electric vehicles, solar panels, or heat pumps who can benefit from time-of-use pricing. |
It's important to be aware that fixed-rate tariffs typically include an early exit fee. This is a charge applied if you switch to another supplier before the end of your contract term. The fee is usually applied per fuel, so a dual fuel customer would pay twice. Always check the terms and conditions before committing to a fixed plan.
3. Is ScottishPower a Green Energy Supplier?
This is a key part of ScottishPower's identity. The company proudly states that it generates 100% of its electricity from its own UK-based wind farms. For environmentally conscious consumers, this is a major selling point. Many of its tariffs, particularly longer fixed-term deals, come with a guarantee of 100% renewable electricity.
However, it is useful to understand the broader context of its fuel mix. Like all suppliers that provide gas, ScottishPower's overall energy provision is not entirely renewable. The gas it supplies is, by nature, a fossil fuel. When looking at its total fuel mix (including gas), the percentage of renewable energy is lower than 100%. Despite this, its commitment to generating its own green electricity in the UK is a significant differentiator from suppliers who purchase renewable energy certificates on the open market.
4. What Are Customers Saying? A Look at ScottishPower Reviews
Independent review platforms provide a valuable window into the customer experience. On sites like Trustpilot, ScottishPower has accumulated a vast number of reviews from its customer base.
The overall sentiment is generally positive, with a significant proportion of users awarding the company high ratings. Common themes in positive feedback often relate to helpful customer service agents who are ableto resolve issues efficiently. The company's app is also frequently praised for its user-friendly interface, which simplifies tasks like submitting meter readings and managing payments.
As with any company of its size, experiences are not universally perfect, and some customers report challenges with billing or communication. However, the large volume of positive feedback suggests that many customers have a satisfactory experience.
5. Beyond Energy: What Else Does ScottishPower Offer?
ScottishPower has expanded its services to become a comprehensive home services provider. This means customers can access a range of products and solutions beyond their gas and electricity supply.
- Home and Boiler Cover: The company offers various protection plans for your home's essential systems. These include boiler service and repair, plumbing and drains cover, and even appliance protection plans. These services often come with access to a 24/7 emergency helpline.
- Green Technology Installation: Tying into its renewable energy focus, ScottishPower facilitates the installation of modern, energy-efficient technology. This includes home EV charger points, solar panel and battery systems, and air source heat pumps. These installations are often paired with their specialist tariffs to maximise savings.
- Smart Meters: ScottishPower is actively rolling out smart meters to its customers across the UK. These devices automatically send meter readings to the supplier, ensuring accurate bills and eliminating the need for manual submissions. Customers can book an installation at no extra cost through the company's website.
6. Managing Your ScottishPower Account
ScottishPower offers several digital tools to help customers stay on top of their energy account.
- The ScottishPower App: Available for both iOS and Android devices, the app is a central hub for account management. Users can monitor their energy consumption, submit meter readings (if they don't have a smart meter), view their billing history, adjust Direct Debit payments, and access customer support.
- Online Portal: For those who prefer using a desktop, a similar range of account management features is available through the ScottishPower website.
- Meter Readings: Customers without smart meters can submit readings easily via the app or online account to ensure their bills accurately reflect their usage.
7. How to Contact ScottishPower
The supplier provides multiple channels for customers to get in touch for queries, support, or to make a complaint.
Method | Details | Availability |
---|---|---|
Phone | 0345 270 0700 | Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm |
Web Chat | Available via the website or app | Seven days a week, typically with extended hours (e.g., 7am - 11pm) |
contactus@scottishpower.com | For non-urgent queries |
8. Support for Customers Facing Financial Difficulty
Recognising that households can face financial hardship, ScottishPower has support systems in place. The ScottishPower Hardship Fund is designed to help customers on lower incomes who are struggling with energy debt. The fund can provide grants to help clear or reduce outstanding balances.
Additionally, the company is part of Energy UK's Vulnerability Commitment, an initiative to improve support for the most vulnerable customers in the market. Their website also contains a dedicated section with advice and links to external organisations that can offer further assistance.
If you are struggling to pay your bills, it is always recommended to contact your supplier as early as possible to discuss the options available.