About us
Gateshead Energy Company (GEC) is wholly owned and operated by Gateshead Council.
GEC is an award-winning energy supplier in Gateshead. We generate local, low-cost, low-carbon heat and electricity distributing heat and power through underground pipes and high voltage electricity cables also known as a District Energy Network.
Our District Energy Network aims to provide cheaper, greener energy for Council buildings, homes, organisations and businesses in Gateshead.
GEC is different from your metering and billing agents which handle your accounts and supply, as we provide the heat and power to the metering and billing agents.
Our heat and power come from renewable sources like solar and mine water. Renewable energy is the cheapest source of heat and power, helping to keep prices down.
GEC offer 5% cheaper fuel than the gas alternative. This is because renewables offer significantly lower generation costs verses fossil fuels and despite the political rhetoric around them, the facts show that the only way to decrease energy prices is by; decoupling electricity from the price of gas, removing gas and oil from the energy mix by replacing it with renewables and generating locally... hence our strategy 'Local, Low-Cost, Low-Carbon'.
Who are Gateshead Energy Company?
Gateshead Energy Company (GEC) is wholly owned and operated by Gateshead Council. GEC is an award-winning energy supplier in Gateshead, and we generate local, low-cost, low-carbon heat and electricity distributing heat and power through underground pipes and high voltage electricity cables also known as a District Energy Network. GEC is different from your metering and billing agents which handle your accounts and supply, whereas we provide the heat and power to the metering and billing agents.
What is a District Energy Network?
A district energy network supplies heating and electricity from a central energy centre to multiple buildings. It's more efficient than individual boilers or generators and helps reduce carbon emissions.
Who owns Gateshead Energy Company?
We are wholly owned by Gateshead Council who operate with a public benefit mission to support local decarbonisation, energy resilience, and affordability.
Where does my heat come from?
Your heat is generated at our central energy centre in Gateshead, which uses mine water, combined heat and power (CHP) engines. Heat is distributed via insulated underground pipes to your building.
Where does my electricity come from?
If you're connected to our private wire network, your electricity is supplied directly from our energy centre and solar farms. Otherwise, you may receive electricity from a separate supplier of your choice.
What technologies do you use to generate energy?
We use mine water, CHP engines, solar PV, battery storage, and are exploring more renewable sources deep geothermal to further decarbonise our network.
Is the energy low-carbon?
Yes. Our system is designed to reduce carbon emissions compared to traditional heating and power systems. We're actively investing in renewable and sustainable technologies.
Who sends my energy bills?
We work with specialist metering and billing agents who issue bills and manage payments on our behalf. Their contact details are included on your bill.
How is my energy usage measured?
Heat is measured using a heat meter installed in your property. Electricity (if supplied by us) is measured via a standard electricity meter.
How can I pay my bill?
You can pay online, by direct debit, or using other methods provided by our billing agent. Full details are on your bill.
What should I do if I think my bill is incorrect?
Contact our billing agent directly using the details on your bill. If you need further support, you can also contact Gateshead Energy Company.
I'm moving in or out of a property. What do I need to do?
Inform our billing agent as soon as possible and your account will be updated. You'll find their contact details on your bill or welcome pack. You can also let us know via our moving out page.
Can I switch energy suppliers?
Heat is supplied exclusively by Gateshead Energy Company for properties connected to our network. There is currently no option to change heat supplier. If you are a homeowner or landlord, you can remove the connection from your property and install alternative heat sources, but this is at your own cost. Electricity may be supplied by us or another provider depending on your connection.
What should I do if I lose heating or hot water?
Check your internal heating controls first. If the issue continues, contact our customer service team or your housing provider if applicable.
Can my building connect to the district energy network?
Yes, subject to feasibility. We work with developers, housing associations, and public sector partners to expand the network. Contact us to discuss connection opportunities.
What are the benefits of connecting to the network?
Benefits include lower carbon emissions, reduced maintenance costs, long-term price stability, and alignment with sustainability goals.
How does Gateshead Energy Company support Net Zero?
We reduce reliance on fossil fuels by supplying low-carbon heat and power, investing in renewable technologies, and supporting local climate action.
What future technologies are you exploring?
We're actively exploring mine water heat, deep geothermal, and other innovative energy sources to further decarbonise our network.
Do you offer energy tours or community events?
Yes! We host energy centre tours, workshops, and community engagement events. Use our contact us form to get in touch and express your interest.
