Gazprom moves up the energy league

GAZPROM Energy has become the fourth largest supplier of gas to UK businesses by volume, according to new data.

Figures released by analysts at Cornwall Energy show the state controlled Russian group now supplies 10% of all gas consumed by businesses.

Based in Manchester, it launched in the UK in 2006. It believes the new market ranking reflects sustained growth within the mid-tier and small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) gas markets.

Gazprom’s expansion has come as businesses have cut back on gas, with private and public sector consumption reducing by 14% in the last four years as a response to the recession and energy efficiency drives.

Jon Feingold, global managing director at Gazprom Energy, said: “Despite increased competition from independent suppliers and rising third party charges, we’ve significantly increased our market share through an absolute focus on our brand values – transparency, relevancy and simply making it easy for our customers to do business.

“As the market continues to tighten, energy providers need to work harder to differentiate themselves and this is why we have invested significantly in our people development and customer service offering.”

The top three gas suppliers in Cornwall Energy’s rankings were: Total Gas and Power, British Gas, and DONG Energy Sales.