We often hear that we slip into “industry speak” and honestly, it’s a fair point. When you’re surrounded by the ins and outs of energy every day, it’s easy to forget that not everyone speaks the same technical language.
The gas industry can seem complex, especially when your energy bill includes unfamiliar terms. Whether you’re managing a business account or just trying to make sense of what you’re being charged for, we’re here to help. Below, you’ll find a clear and simple breakdown of key gas industry terms—so you can understand exactly what you’re looking at.
Annual Quantity or Estimated Annual Consumption (AQ or EAC)
This is the estimated amount of gas you use over a year, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). It helps determine your billing and is a key figure for gas suppliers.
Calorific Value (CV)
Think of this as the “energy richness” of your gas. It measures how much energy is in the gas you receive, expressed in megajoules per cubic metre (MJ/m³). The typical range is between 37.5 MJ/m³ and 43.0 MJ/m³, and it’s tracked daily by National Grid for each region.
Correction Factor
Because gas expands and contracts with temperature and pressure, the correction factor adjusts your usage to reflect these variations. The standard correction factor used across the UK is 1.02264.
Supply Number (MPRN)
Your Meter Point Reference Number (MPRN) is a unique number that identifies your gas meter. Think of it like your gas meter’s fingerprint—no two are the same.
Network Code
This is the legal contract between gas shippers and National Grid. It ensures a fair and consistent set of rules for how gas is transported across the network.
Producers
Gas producers are the companies that explore for, extract, and process natural gas before it’s delivered into the UK’s gas system. They operate offshore and deliver gas to coastal facilities.
Profile
Gas usage isn’t consistent year-round—most people use more in the winter. If your contract is variable, your bills may follow this seasonal profile:
| Month | % of Annual Usage |
| Jan | 13.8% |
| Feb | 13.6% |
| Mar | 12.2% |
| Apr | 9.8% |
| May | 7.1% |
| Jun | 4.2% |
| Jul | 2.4% |
| Aug | 2.4% |
| Sep | 4.2% |
| Oct | 7.3% |
| Nov | 10.3% |
| Dec | 12.7% |
If you’re on a budget plan, you’ll typically be billed evenly each month, at 8.33% of your annual usage.
Regional Gas Distribution Networks
Five main companies manage the UK’s gas pipeline infrastructure:
- National Grid plc
- Wales & West Utilities
- Scotland Gas Networks
- Southern Gas Networks
- Northern Gas Networks
They ensure gas safely reaches homes and businesses across the country.
Regulator (Ofgem)
Ofgem is the independent regulator for gas and electricity in Great Britain. Their role? To protect consumers, enforce fair practices, and ensure energy companies follow the law. They operate under acts like the Gas Act 1986 and the Utilities Act 2000.
Meter Serial Number (MSN)
This is the manufacturer’s ID stamped on your gas meter. It helps identify and track the specific device installed at your property.
Shipper
A Shipper is the licensed company (this could be British Gas or Npower ) responsible for arranging gas delivery from the coast to your premises via the pipeline network. All shippers must be licensed by Ofgem.
Supplier
The Supplier is the company you buy your gas from—also licensed by Ofgem. They work with shippers to ensure the gas reaches your property and handle billing and customer service.
Therms
An older unit of gas measurement, with one therm equal to about 29.3 kWh. While kilowatt-hours are more common today, you might still spot therms here and there.
Transporter
The Transporter moves gas through the national pipeline network on behalf of shippers. These are the same companies that run the Regional Gas Distribution Networks—they ensure your gas flows from the coast to your meter.
Understanding your gas bill just got easier. With this guide, you can now decode the technical terms and feel more confident when reviewing your energy usage and contracts. Got more questions about gas billing or supply?
Our team is here to guide you — no jargon, no pressure. Just solid advice to help your business save money and thrive.
☎️ 01738 474630
✉️ theteam@herestheplan.co.uk
