Energy bills in the UK have doubled in 2022, and consumers will likely be pinching their pennies even more before the year draws to a close.
The cost of energy increased substantially after lockdown was lifted, and the ongoing war in Ukraine has reduced access to Russian gas supplies. These factors have greatly compounded the potential energy crisis.
Let’s look at the cost price differences between gas-run households versus electricity-run homes and some of the pros and cons of each fuel type.
Benefits of gas
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1. Costs less
Natural gas is a cost-effective energy source compared to oil and coal. It is also deregulated, which means consumers don’t have to fret about adhering to strict governmental regulations.
In the UK, it will cost you around 4.65p per kilowatt hour of gas, whereas 16p will get you one unit of electricity. So, the unit cost of gas is much cheaper than electricity.
2. Good for the environment
Gas is the cleanest fossil fuel around. It has a very low carbon footprint as it emits a third less carbon dioxide than coal.
3. Reliability
If your home uses natural gas, it won’t be left without power if a bad storm hits. So, if all your devices and appliances are powered by gas, you don’t have to be concerned if the electricity goes out. Gas gives you peace of mind during bad weather conditions.
4. Faster showers
In today’s fast-paced world, time is money. When using gas, you don’t have to worry about waiting long periods for your electric-powered boiler to warm up. Gas has the ability to warm up water twice as fast as electricity. So, you definitely won’t be late for that all-important work meeting!
Benefits of electricity
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1. Splices CO2 emissions
A home that is solely run on electricity gives off less CO2 emissions than fossil fuels. Studies have shown that fossil fuel emissions can lead to major illnesses such as coronary heart disease, lung cancer, and even strokes.
Not to mention, fossil fuels are unpredictable and have contributed substantially to global warming. Fossil fuels are also the main cause of increased greenhouse emissions in the environment.
2. Energy saving
All fully-electric homes use less energy than combustion-powered appliances. Technological advances have led to the development of energy-efficient electrical appliances. Split heat pumps and high-tech cooking gadgets help to reduce the amount of energy you use.
3. Better safety features
Electricity usage in the home has more safety benefits when compared to gas. Combustion appliances give off small amounts of carbon monoxide, which is harmful to humans.
With a fully electric home, you don’t have to worry about gas leaks or, worst-case scenario, gas explosions. Electric-powered appliances are three times more energy efficient than gas, so although a unit costs more, far less is used when running the appliance for the same amount of time.
A fully-electrified home also ensures cleaner air quality, and electrical appliances create less noise than gas appliances meaning a quieter, more peaceful home.
Billing bottom line
Let’s talk billing. If you are considering installing a gas central heating system, it will, on average, set you back £5250. The electric option will cost you £3790. Generally, gas appliances are pricier initially but cheaper to cook with and run.
Taking fewer showers, switching off all devices and light switches, and not using the tumble dryer can save consumers up to £205 on their monthly energy bill. Low-income houses in the UK will soon benefit from a once-off £400 slash of their energy bills in October 2022. Visit the utility bidder website to learn more about UK’s looming energy crisis.
Final Thoughts
The bottom line when it comes to gas and electricity usage is that gas is the cheaper option. Using gas in your home will save you close to 30% on your monthly fuel bill. Natural gas also emits fewer greenhouse gasses into the environment making it more eco-friendly than other fossil fuels.
However, gas can be dangerous. Consumers who choose to use gas should make sure their home is properly ventilated at all times. They should also invest in a carbon monoxide gauge to monitor levels constantly.
Homeowners who choose the fully-electric option might pay more per unit, but electrical appliances are becoming ever more efficient all the time, so the difference in cost is likely to be negligible overall.
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