Great Britain imported more gas than it produced for the first time in November, according to energy network operator National Grid yesterday (Tuesday December 22nd).

Want a gas job? Visit our CV Advice and Tips page.

The UK served as a net exporter of gas until five years ago, when a steady decline in output from the UK Continental Shelf (UKCS) was registered and the shift to foreign providers became more necessary to keep houses warm across the nation, Reuters revealed.

Imports met 50.8 per cent of total demand from British homeowners last month.

Commenting on the situation, a spokesman for National Grid said: "That was the first time ... this year was that milestone of less than 50 per cent from UKCS supplies. As UKCS supplies decline, we will become increasingly dependent on imports."

Imports were boosted in 2009 upon the opening in May of Europe's largest liquefied natural gas (LNG) import terminal at South Hook, while a smaller facility in nearby Wales also helped play a major part in adding to this figure.

Earlier this month, it was revealed by the Confederation of British Industry that leaky boilers and inefficient offices are contributing to £15 million of energy being wasted every day.