PARIS — September 7, 2026 — French state-owned energy company EDF is reportedly in discussions to acquire British electricity supplier and solar installer So Energy, in a potential transaction that could further strengthen EDF’s position in the UK’s competitive retail energy market.
The proposed acquisition involves So Energy, which is majority-owned by Irish energy company ESB. If completed, the transaction would significantly expand EDF’s existing customer base in Britain.
So Energy serves approximately 300,000 customers, while EDF currently supplies electricity to around 5 million customers across the UK. The acquisition would therefore give EDF access to a larger customer base and further increase its presence in the British energy market.
Strategic Expansion in the UK
The potential acquisition comes as EDF seeks to strengthen its position against major competitors, including Octopus Energy, British Gas and E.ON.
Adding So Energy’s customers could help EDF increase its retail market share while expanding its presence in renewable-energy services. So Energy’s operations include both electricity supply and solar panel installation, providing EDF with an opportunity to strengthen its offering in the growing renewable-energy sector.
Deal Value Yet to Be Disclosed
The financial terms of the potential acquisition have not been disclosed.
Industry sources indicate that So Energy is relatively small compared with EDF, meaning the transaction may represent a manageable investment for the French utility if negotiations result in an agreement.
However, discussions are still ongoing, and there is no guarantee that the acquisition will be completed.
Energy Market Consolidation
The potential transaction comes amid continued consolidation and competition within Britain’s retail energy industry.
Earlier this year, German energy company E.ON announced plans to acquire rival supplier Ovo Energy for an undisclosed amount. The development reflects the increasing efforts by major energy companies to expand their customer bases and strengthen their positions in the UK market.
For EDF, acquiring So Energy could provide an opportunity to add hundreds of thousands of customers while gaining further exposure to the UK’s renewable-energy and solar market.
What the Acquisition Could Mean
If the deal is completed, EDF could benefit from:
- An additional customer base of approximately 300,000 households.
- Increased market share in Britain’s retail electricity sector.
- Greater exposure to the UK’s growing solar-energy market.
- Expanded renewable-energy service capabilities.
- A stronger competitive position against other major UK energy suppliers.
Next Steps
The discussions remain ongoing, and further details regarding the potential purchase price, transaction structure and completion timeline have yet to be announced.
Any completed acquisition would also be subject to the necessary corporate and regulatory processes.
About EDF
EDF is a French state-owned energy company with operations across electricity generation, energy supply and related services. The company has maintained a significant presence in the UK and continues to pursue opportunities to expand its position in the country’s evolving energy market.
