Centrica PLC has released its preliminary financial results for 2023, showcasing an improved operational performance across the group. The company reported an adjusted operating profit (AOP) of 2.8 billion, a slight decrease from the previous year, and adjusted basic earnings per share (EPS) of 33.4p. Additionally, Centrica demonstrated its commitment to supporting customers and communities by providing 140 million in voluntary direct support and enhancing operational metrics, customer satisfaction, and retention across its retail businesses. The company also recruited 700 new customer contact roles in the UK.

In terms of energy security, Centrica Energy and Repsol have signed a deal to purchase 1 million tonnes of Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) shipments between 2025 and 2027, which will contribute to improving the UK's energy security. This agreement is expected to bolster the country's energy infrastructure and supply. Cassim Mangerah, MD Centrica Energy, emphasized the significance of this deal in enhancing the company's portfolio and strengthening relationships with other industry players.

Furthermore, Centrica's British Gas is leading the way in promoting electric vehicle (EV) adoption by offering the UK's cheapest way to charge an EV through its Hive SmartCharge service. New customers of Hive chargers can also benefit from a year's worth of free charging with FreeCharge. This initiative not only aims to reduce transport costs but also supports the UK's EV transition and net zero ambitions. Kim Royds, Director of Mobility at Centrica New Business & Net Zero, highlighted the company's commitment to making the transition to net zero simple and affordable, with electric vehicles playing a pivotal role in this endeavor.

In a strategic partnership with Samsung, British Gas is taking steps to empower customers to manage their energy use more efficiently and promote the adoption of low carbon heating technologies in British homes. Through integration with Samsung's SmartThings app, customers can optimize their home appliances to consume energy during periods of lower cost and demand, facilitated by the SmartThings Energy and British Gas PeakSave demand flexibility scheme.

These developments underscore Centrica PLC's dedication to providing sustainable, simple, and affordable energy, services, and solutions to its customers. The company's strategic initiatives and financial performance in 2023 reflect its commitment to driving positive change in the energy sector and supporting the UK's transition to a low-carbon future.