Centrica plc is a prominent international energy services and solutions company with a rich heritage spanning over 200 years. It operates primarily in the UK, Europe, and North America, serving more than 10 million customers through well-known brands such as British Gas and Centrica Business Solutions. Centrica’s lobbying activities are focused on shaping EU policies that affect the energy sector and broader issues like environmental sustainability and economic growth.
Since its registration in the EU Transparency Register on April 24, 2015 (ID: 577829817108-84), Centrica has actively engaged in the EU policymaking process, aiming to influence legislation and regulatory frameworks related to the Energy Union, climate policy, the single electricity and gas market, retail energy markets, financial regulation, security of supply, renewables, energy efficiency, emissions trading, air quality, research and innovation, consumer rights, data protection, and cybersecurity.
Centrica’s approach to political involvement emphasizes compliance and transparency. The Group Chief Executive oversees the implementation of political engagement strategies, with business unit leaders responsible for operational adherence. The company undergoes regular reviews by its Board’s Executive Committee and internal audits to mitigate bribery and corruption risks.
Financially, Centrica’s declared lobbying expenditure for the year 2023 ranged between €50,000 and €99,999, reflecting a modest but consistent investment in influencing EU policy. The company employs approximately 0.75 full-time equivalent lobbyists (three individuals at 25% employment each) to manage its EU lobbying efforts. Despite this relatively small team, Centrica has conducted 11 high-level meetings with European Commission officials during 2023, demonstrating active engagement with key EU institutions.
Centrica is also a member of several influential industry associations, including the European Federation of Energy Traders (EFET), Energy UK, and the German Association of Energy and Water Industries (BDEW). These affiliations enhance its networking capabilities and amplify its voice in EU energy policy debates.
The company is registered under the “Companies & groups” category in the EU Transparency Register and promotes its own interests as well as the collective interests of its members. Centrica complies with the Lobbying (Scotland) Act, ensuring transparency in its interactions with Scottish government officials.
Overall, Centrica plc represents a significant player in the EU energy landscape, leveraging a strategic, transparent, and compliant lobbying approach to influence policies that impact energy markets, environmental standards, and consumer protections.
