Own Solar vs Green Tariff

Is own solar greener than a green tariff?

Own solar panels vs buying a 'green' energy tariff: GREEN TARIFF: Cost: 24.5p/kWh (same as standard — the 'green' premium is minimal). How it works: supplier buys REGO certificates (Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin) to 'match' your usage with renewable generation. THE PROBLEM: REGOs don't create NEW renewable generation. They certify that renewable electricity was generated SOMEWHERE. Your electricity still comes from the grid mix. Buying a green tariff doesn't reduce fossil fuel use — it's an accounting exercise. OWN SOLAR: Cost: 6-9p/kWh over 25 years (LCOE). How it works: your panels generate NEW renewable electricity on YOUR roof. Every kWh genuinely displaces grid electricity. COMPARISON (25 years, 4,000 kWh/yr): Green tariff: 4,000 × 24.5p × 25 = £24,500. Carbon impact: minimal (REGOs ≠ new capacity). Own solar: £7,000-£9,000 total cost. Saves: £15,000-£20,000 vs grid. Carbon impact: 17+ tonnes CO₂ genuinely avoided. VERDICT: Own solar is greener (creates new capacity) AND cheaper (60-75% less per kWh). Green tariffs are better than standard tariffs but don't create additionality. Sources: Ofgem REGO register (ofgem.gov.uk), Good Energy transparency reports.