3 minute read
This week, to coincide with the All-Energy Conference in Glasgow, we hosted a private dinner with senior leaders from across the UK energy system – developers, investors, policymakers, operators and advisors – each playing a vital role in the transition.
The conversation was direct, thoughtful and honest. While familiar concerns surfaced – grid constraints, planning bottlenecks, high oil and gas taxation, AR7 uncertainty, future exploration licensing, slow digital adoption and faltering investor confidence – there was also a shared sense of resolve.
The fundamentals are still strong. The opportunity is still there. Many companies are making impressive progress. And the UK can still lead, if we act with clarity, pace and intent.
A few themes stood out:
Decisions can’t be made in a vacuum.
We must address the challenges in front of us and not try to wish them away. Pragmatism, not idealism, will unlock progress.
Investors aren’t walking away but they’re watching closely.
While private equity often seeks fast returns, the energy transition remains a compelling long-term proposition. Especially when the alternatives simply aren’t sustainable.
Speed and focus matter.
Disjointed policies, slow decision making and the scale of infrastructure upgrade required is creating a damaging drag. While the ambition is clear, execution is falling short and it's beginning to erode momentum.
Technology can help us catch up.
Applying AI and digitisation in smart, targeted ways like analysing planning applications to prioritise action, can free up capacity where it’s needed most.
Policy risk is real - and creates investor uncertainty.
Uncertainty over the proposed shift to zonal electricity pricing is beginning to affect investment decisions. Even well-intentioned reforms can undermine confidence if not handled carefully.
Public engagement needs a reset.
If we want people to back the infrastructure required for the transition, we need to communicate the benefits more clearly and build trust with communities.
Politics can't slow progress.
12 months out from elections in Wales and Scotland, 2025 has so far felt hesitant but it doesn't have to be a lost year. There’s still time to focus, align and deliver, supporting the right projects, not just the loudest ones.
What stood out most was the collective determination to cut through the noise and stay ruthlessly focused on delivery. Not just talking about change but making it happen.
Thanks to those who joined and contributed. These conversations matter. So do the new relationships they help foster. And they’re a reminder that with the right intent and right partners we can create the clean, secure and resilient energy system the UK needs to power economic growth.
As Chris Stark said this week: “confidence is our most valuable commodity”.
