Greg Jackson, the dynamic founder and CEO of Octopus Energy, has revolutionized the way we think about energy supply. From humble beginnings to leading one of the UK’s fastest-growing energy companies, Jackson’s journey is a testament to the power of technology, sustainability, and customer-first values. As Octopus Energy continues to disrupt the energy market, Jackson’s innovative approach and personal story have positioned him as one of the key figures driving the green energy transition.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born in September 1971 in Halifax, West Yorkshire, Greg Jackson early life was shaped by a mixture of technical curiosity and financial challenges. After leaving school at 16, Jackson taught himself to program computer games, a skill that laid the foundation for his future entrepreneurial ventures. However, he soon realized that a formal education would serve him well. He returned to sixth-form college and later earned a degree in economics from Pembroke College, Cambridge.
Before entering the energy sector, Jackson worked in several small businesses, where he gained experience in the tech and finance industries. His early career included roles in peer-to-peer lending and investment, which would later inform his approach to building Octopus Energy.
Greg Jackson Founding Octopus Energy
In 2015, Jackson founded Octopus Energy with the vision of using technology to make energy cheaper, greener, and more customer-centric. He wanted to create a company that would not only provide energy but also use technology to empower consumers, disrupt traditional business models, and push the transition to renewables.
Octopus Energy’s success can be attributed to its proprietary technology platform, Kraken, which has allowed the company to scale rapidly. Kraken enables Octopus to manage millions of energy customer accounts, improving efficiency and providing real-time solutions for consumers. The platform is now licensed to other energy companies, further solidifying Octopus’s place in the global energy market.
Under Jackson’s leadership, the company has expanded beyond the UK, and Octopus Energy now operates in several countries, making it one of the largest renewable energy suppliers in the world. The company’s rapid growth and market presence led to its valuation surpassing £7 billion by 2024.
Vision and Business Philosophy
Jackson’s leadership style focuses on combining digital innovation with sustainable practices. His approach is rooted in the belief that technology can help solve many of the energy industry’s most pressing challenges, such as reducing costs and providing greener alternatives. Octopus Energy’s mission is clear: it aims to democratize access to renewable energy by making it affordable and accessible to all.
One of Jackson’s standout qualities is his focus on customer-first solutions. Octopus Energy has become known for its transparent pricing and excellent customer service, offering consumers more control over their energy usage. This commitment to customer satisfaction has earned Octopus Energy a loyal following and recognition as one of the top-rated energy companies in the UK.
Jackson’s belief in the power of technology also extends to his commitment to the green energy revolution. He often speaks about the urgency of transitioning to renewable energy, advocating for energy independence and the importance of decarbonizing the sector.
Greg Jackson Net Worth and Financial Success
As of 2024, Greg Jackson net worth is estimated to be approximately £400 million. A significant portion of his wealth stems from his stake in Octopus Energy, which has grown rapidly since its founding. His net worth is tied to the company’s success, with Octopus Energy valued at more than £7 billion in 2024. Jackson’s wealth also reflects the company’s ambitious expansion plans, with Kraken technology now licensed to other utilities and the business moving into new markets.
Despite the significant financial success, Jackson has remained grounded in his mission to make energy more affordable and accessible. He even gave up his £150,000 salary during the 2021 energy crisis to focus on supporting customers through tough times.
Greg Jackson Personal Life and Family
While Greg Jackson is a well-known figure in the business world, he has kept his personal life relatively private. There are few public details about his family, but it is known that he has two children from previous relationships. Despite his high profile in the tech and energy sectors, Jackson keeps a low profile regarding his personal affairs, often focusing on his business endeavors and public roles.
There is little information available regarding Jackson’s current partner or wife, and no reliable sources confirm details about his personal relationships. However, Jackson’s commitment to his family and his career is clear from his public statements and business actions.
Recognition and Public Roles
Greg Jackson’s work has earned him recognition both within the industry and beyond. In 2025, he was appointed to the UK Cabinet Office board in a non-executive role, where he advises on public policy related to energy and technology. His expertise is increasingly sought after as governments around the world look to transition to greener energy solutions.
His leadership at Octopus Energy has earned him widespread acclaim, and he has been recognized as one of the top business figures in the green energy sector. Jackson has appeared in numerous media outlets and podcasts, including BBC’s Desert Island Discs, where he discussed his personal and professional life, revealing the challenges and motivations that have driven him.
Conclusion
Greg Jackson’s journey from a self-taught programmer to the CEO of one of the fastest-growing energy companies in the world is a testament to the power of innovation, determination, and a customer-centric vision. His leadership of Octopus Energy has reshaped the energy market, making it more sustainable and accessible for consumers. As the world continues to transition to renewable energy, Jackson’s work will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs and innovators.
Through Octopus Energy’s success, Greg Jackson is proving that it is possible to combine profit with purpose, and in doing so, is helping to build a greener, more sustainable future for all.