Falling gas reserves push energy costs higher

Nationwide Energy's analysis of energy costs for hospitality
Looking ahead: future energy cost movements are uncertain, Nationwide Energy says (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Energy commodity prices, particularly for gas, surged in late December due to higher-than-expected withdrawals and concerns over the expiration of the Russian gas transit agreement through Ukraine, affecting several Eastern European countries.

Winter outlook

Nationwide Energy updates on utility market for January 2025
Graph produced by Cornwall Insight in conjunction with Drax Energy Solutions 09/01/2025 (Nationwide Energy)

European gas storage has fallen to below 70%, while UK storage is below 50%.

Despite much colder weather prices have started to fall, in part due to the availability of LNG following an Asian sell-off due to weak demand.

A range of weather and geo-political forces continue to drive volatility.

Navigating the current market

Commodity costAv unit rateAv S/C
Electricity05/12/20248.8p24.6p70p
19/12/20248p26.1p£1.07
09/01/20258.6p24.5p£1.89
Gas05/12/20243.8p7p65p
19/12/20243.4p6.5p69p
09/01/20253.5p6.8p66p

Future energy cost movements are uncertain. Electricity non-commodity costs are projected to rise with gas costs more reliably reflecting commodity movements. The commodity cost trend has been upward since February 2024 and while likely to decline, volatility remains an issue.

Traditional beliefs that the summer is a better time to fix when rates are lower, are unreliable. Businesses approaching renewal should regularly monitor the market or seek assistance from a trusted consultant. Be wary of cold callers claiming that “today is the best day to fix” — they likely make the same claim every day, regardless of market conditions.

How Nationwide Energy can help

Making informed decisions in this volatile market requires comprehensive advice. Nationwide Energy’s field and office teams offer detailed consultations to help businesses-

  • Understand the merits and risks of various supply options.
  • Evaluate contract terms to avoid hidden costs.
  • Access the latest market insights for informed decision-making.

Providing customers with the time and information they need to choose the best energy solutions for their business.

Contact Us Today

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📧 Email: info@nationwide-energy.co.uk
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