A thinktank linked to Tony Blair is facing criticism for urging more North Sea oil and gas drilling while downplaying renewable energy, with experts dismissing its claims as outdated fossil fuel industry spin. The Tony Blair Institute for Global Change (TBI), which has received funding from Saudi Arabia and a donor close to Donald Trump, published a report calling for expanded fossil fuel production and scrapping the UK's 2030 clean power target.
The report argues renewable energy is too expensive, but official data shows onshore wind costs £72 per megawatt hour (MWh) and solar £65/MWh, compared to £147/MWh for new gas plants. Offshore wind at £91/MWh is about 40% cheaper than gas. Nuclear power, which TBI supports, is likely to cost over £133/MWh and take longer to build.
Critics also highlight that the report ignores grid operator NESO's conclusion that a clean power system by 2030 is achievable without increasing consumer costs. Simon Francis of the End Fuel Poverty Coalition called TBI's proposal to scrap the windfall tax on oil and gas profits 'staggering', noting that energy giants made £125bn in UK profits since 2020 while millions struggled with bills.
Bob Ward of the Grantham Research Institute said more North Sea drilling would not reduce household bills, as gas prices are set internationally. The UK is likely to rely on imports for two-thirds of its gas within five years. Mike Childs of Friends of the Earth urged accelerating renewables to protect consumers from price volatility, while Shaun Spiers of Green Alliance said the UK's clean power plan is working and doesn't need rethinking.
