London Utilities

London, being a very old city, has its own challenges when it comes to the distribution of water, gas and electricity. Unlike many modern cities, which are planned, London has evolved into a mega city, and thus its infrastructure is unique.

Electricity
For visitors to London the standard electricity supply voltage is the same as in the rest the of United Kingdom, that is 240 volts alternating current.

In 2000 Londoners have a choice of around 30 companies from whom they can buy electricity (the suppliers). There are four companies (the distributors) who provide the majority of the wires that transmits the electricity to properties in London. There are around one hundred companies that generate most of the electricity that is used. Different companies, most based outside London, handle customer enquires. For example, London Electricity uses a call centre in Sunderland.

A number of different companies read meters on behalf of the various suppliers, distributors and generator. The situation is complex and rapidly changing that there are independent energy advisors who try and track the best deals.
It seems best to both shop around and change supplier frequently. A customer should sign up for a service with a notice of termination period as short as possible and with no penalty on termination.

National Grid and Transco are two organisations who are responsible for the bulk distribution of electricity and gas in the UK.
Outside London, within the countries of Europe and elsewhere, liberalisation (privatisation) continues at various speeds. The EU countries attempt to follow EU Directive for electricity.

Water
Tap water in London is fit to drink and is of good quality, perhaps better than most of the bottled still varieties.

Public water supply in London is a monopoly activity.

Gas
Natural gas is readily available for almost every home and business in London. The major source of this gas was the North Sea, but more and more of it is now being imported from other countries.

Oil
For heating the fuel of choice is gas. The next most popular is electricity. Oil follows a distant third.

Combined Heat and Power, Landfill and Biomass Gas
There are increasing numbers of district heating schemes that are being planned and implemented using CHP. Local Authorities and Housing Authorities are looking more favourably on these schemes.

Solar Energy
Solar energy is not widely used in London. London has the sunshine, but it is not cost-effective at the moment. Perhaps planning permission and building regulation also impede adoption of this source of energy.

Wind Power and Wave Power
Hardly used in London, although few wind turbines can be spotted on the outskirts of London. There is one wind turbine at Fords car plant in Dagenham, Essex, which is towards the east of London.

Wave power is non-existent in London as River Thames is not suitable for this purpose.

Paying utility bills
Utility bills can be paid by cash at the banks, through direct debit, by online banking or customers can purchase pre-payment keys or smartcards.