Why are UK energy costs so high? And how to bring them down

Why are UK energy costs so high? And how to bring them down

From Independent Thinking by Chatham House

April 1, 2026 · 38 min · Season 4 · Episode 29

About this episode

Bronwen Maddox discusses UK energy costs and policies with Sir Dieter Helm.

An earlier than usual episode of the Independent Thinking podcast, ahead of the Easter break. In a one-on-one conversation, Chatham House Director Bronwen Maddox discusses energy with Sir Dieter Helm , Professor of Economic Policy at the University of Oxford, who has been advising governments and writing on energy, water and the environment for decades. They examine how energy policies of different governments over decades led to the UK's energy costs being so high. And what the government should do if it wants to guarantee security of supply – and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Are those concerned about climate change right to push for net zero? Are current policies driving industry from the UK? Should there be more nuclear power stations, or more drilling in the North Sea? Read our latest: The Iran war risks triggering a new wave of nuclear proliferation Any Israeli occupation of southern Lebanon will work to Hezbollah's advantage Moscow internet blackouts: the Kremlin tightens its grip on Russia's digital space Presented by Bronwen Maddox. Produced by Stephen Farrell . Read the Spring issue of The World Today Listen to The Climate Briefing podcast 🎧 Listen to Africa…

People in this episode

Host: Bronwen Maddox

Guest: Sir Dieter Helm

Topics covered

  • UK energy costs
  • energy policy
  • greenhouse gas emissions
  • climate change
  • nuclear power
  • North Sea drilling

Keywords

  • energy costs
  • UK energy policy
  • greenhouse gas emissions
  • climate change
  • nuclear power
  • North Sea drilling

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Chatham House, University of Oxford

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