Think tank urges UK budget to prioritize cheaper power over net-zero targets

The Tony Blair Institute for Global Change has called on Chancellor John Healey to reorient the UK’s energy policy toward affordability rather than strict net-zero milestones. Citing Britain’s among the highest energy bills in the G7, the institute blames reliance on natural gas and price spikes from conflicts in Iran and Ukraine. Its report urges the government to scrap the Clean Power 2030 roadmap in favor of a "cheaper power mission" that incentivises businesses to consume electricity during off-peak periods and eases grid constraints for high-value projects.

It also recommends reopening the debate on zonal pricing, which could cut bills in Scotland and other generation-rich areas, even though former Prime Minister Keir Starmer dismissed the idea. Director Tone Langengen stresses that clean energy remains essential, but the immediate test is delivering cheaper, reliable power to households and firms. The institute notes that Prime Minister Andy Burnham has already approved drilling at the Jackdaw gas field, signaling a move toward cheaper supply.