Local authorities are spending over £863m with the Big Six energy companies every year, according to new research.

A freedom of information request by supplier Bulb found nine out of ten local authorities are supplied by one of the major oil and gas companies. According to the findings, no local authority in Britain has switched to a fully renewable energy supplier.

The research also unveiled large variations in what councils are paying, suggesting energy bills could be reduced if authorities switched to cheaper companies.

Bulb co-founder, Hayden Wood, said: ‘There’s a huge opportunity for councils across the country to lead from the front and show that they are committed to a renewable future.

‘Sadly, our research reveals that councils - including some who have expressed vocal support for renewables - are currently missing out on the chance to go green. A change would benefit the environment, while opening up opportunities to cut publicly-funded energy bills.’