What Does Net Zero Actually Mean for You and the UK?

Net zero means making sure the amount of greenhouse gases we add to the atmosphere is balanced by the amount we take away. We want to reach it to reduce global warming and protect our planet from climate change. The UK has committed to reaching this balance by 2050¹.

At So Energy, our mission is to make this shift simple for everyone. By supplying 100% renewable electricity and helping customers choose greener home‑energy options, we’re here to support every household on the journey to net zero. One simple step at a time.

Why is it important that we hit net zero?

Net zero is vital because it’s how we protect our planet, our communities, and our future. Science has proven that human‑driven emissions are causing extreme heat, flooding and wildfires as a result of global warming.

These impacts will only get worse unless we drastically cut the greenhouse gases we produce. By reaching net zero we can help limit global warming to 1.5°C². This is the threshold scientists say is key to avoiding the worst effects of climate change.

At So Energy, we believe everyone should feel empowered to be part of that solution. That’s why we focus on making greener energy simple, affordable and accessible, helping households take meaningful steps towards a cleaner, brighter future.

The UK’s Legal Commitment to reaching net zero

in 2019, the UK government updated the Climate Change Act to make reaching net zero emissions by 2050 a legal requirement.  We were the first major economy to take this bold step.

By choosing cleaner energy today, we can all help build the low‑carbon future the UK has promised for tomorrow.

What the UK is doing to reach net zero

The government’s latest plans focus on investing in renewables like solar and wind power to build a cleaner, more reliable energy system for the future. This shift helps cut emissions as well as strengthening energy security by reducing reliance on global fossil fuel markets.

How You Can Help At Home

Net zero can feel huge, but it really comes down to a few everyday choices we can all make.

1. It starts with cleaner power. Switching to a 100% renewable energy tariff cuts the carbon without any extra effort from you. And the even better news is, all our green tariffs can save you money when compared with a standard variable tariff.
2. Installing a smart meter means you can track your energy and control your energy use. By opting in to half-hourly meter readings, you can easily identify energy waste and reduce it.
3. Cut waste and recycle more. Net zero is all about energy and waste. Reducing landfill means fewer methane emissions, a huge contributor to global warming.
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Read about more ways to help in our blog on 10 ways to reach net zero at home.

How So Energy Can Support Your Journey to Net Zero

We can help you cut carbon, and save money, with simple solutions:

Our Tariffs

Choose one of our 100% renewable electricity fixed tariffs – we offer 12, 18 and 24-month contracts, giving you a range of options to suit your needs.

Prefer to stick with a variable tariff, but stay committed to green energy? Our So Green Tracker always stays below the cap by £50, and because it tracks the market, your prices fall when market rates fall.

Once you’re on board, you can vote for the type of renewable energy you want us to invest in. Each and every vote is covered by a UK-based renewable energy generator.

Together, we’re building a cleaner, greener energy system.

Solar and Battery

We’re also here to guide and support when you’re ready to take a bigger step in your net zero journey.

Our solar and battery solutions allow you to gain more energy independence by powering your home with energy you generate yourself. Meaning less reliance on the grid. Plus, you can earn money by exporting extra power you generate to the grid.

Start saving 70% on your electricity bills³, while you spread the cost of installation with our solar payment options – from £75 a month, with no upfront cost.  

EV Solutions

And if you’re interested in switching your gas guzzler for an electric car, you could be driving up to 700 miles for just £10⁴ with our So EV tariff. Check out our range of home EV chargers, and add So EV to get an overnight charging rate of 6.5p per kWh.

Net zero matters – and we’re here to make it simple

Reaching net zero means balancing the greenhouse gases we produce with those we remove, helping limit global warming and protect our planet. The UK has committed to achieving this by 2050, and at So Energy we’re supporting households every step of the way. From 100% renewable tariffs to solar, battery and EV solutions, we make greener living easy and affordable – so together, we can build a cleaner, brighter future.

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Footnotes

1. https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/cbp-9888/
2. https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/science/climate-issues/degrees-matter
3. The 70% calculation is based on a £9,310 system (8x505W panels, 5kWh battery, south-facing 35 (degree) London roof, 26.35p/kWh unit rate, 0.15p/kWh export). MCS estimates 3975kWh/year, covering 70% of a typical 3,500kWh households needs, saving £37,602 over 25 years.
4. The 700 miles for £10 calculation is based on a Tesla Model Y efficiency rating of 4.5 miles per kWh. Actual efficiency varies depending on EV make and model, seasonal conditions, driving style, and charging rate. Our estimate uses the So EV charging rate of 6.5p per kWh, offered between 12am and 5am. The precise calculation is 701 miles for £10.12, but we've rounded down the numbers for simplicity.

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