Britain faces growing risks of power shortages, with MPs warning the government to ensure there is enough backup energy supply when wind and solar output drops.
In January 2025, the country’s energy reserves briefly fell below safe levels, sparking fears of potential blackouts.
Experts are calling for more transparency on how shortages are handled and for stronger backup energy sources like nuclear power to keep the grid stable.
Despite the government’s push for renewable energy, delays in key reforms—such as shifting environmental levies from electricity to gas—have stalled efforts to lower costs.
As a result, UK households continue to pay some of the highest electricity prices in Europe, with little relief in sight.
PAC Chair Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown MP questioned whether the government can guarantee a stable power supply, stating: “Our report poses unanswered questions as to how future energy security will be assured when the wind doesn’t blow and the sun doesn’t shine.”
He warned that volatility in energy markets is becoming the new normal, urging the UK to act quickly to prevent future crises.
Without proper planning, the UK risks further energy shortfalls
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He said: “The geopolitical outlook remains uncertain, and energy demand is heating up at the same time as we pivot towards greater reliance on renewables.”
Without proper planning, the UK risks further energy shortfalls, leading to higher bills and greater financial pressure on consumers.
Millions are struggling to afford energy, with many cutting back on essentials like food to cope with soaring costs.
The PAC has criticised the government for failing to lower long-term energy prices or provide targeted support for the most vulnerable.
Key findings from the report show:
- Consumer energy debt has more than doubled, reaching £3.7billion in 2024 (up from £1.8bn in 2021)
- The UK had the highest electricity prices among 25 countries reporting to the International Energy Agency
- Electricity is now four times more expensive than gas
- From next week, household energy bills will rise by 6.4 per cent as the regulator lifts the price cap, pushing annual costs £600 higher than before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine
From next week, household energy bills will rise by 6.4 per cent
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The PAC argued that the government’s £44bn energy support scheme was too broad, benefiting those who didn’t need help, while 238,000 households fell into fuel poverty.
A separate scheme for homes without direct electricity access also had low take-up, suggesting many in need were left out.
Clifton-Brown said: “Sharp moves in energy prices in the future must find Government fully prepared to issue targeted and effective support, with those most in need the focus of that support.”
He added: “We cannot see a repetition of precious funds being beamed out across the spectrum to those who do not require help.
“This approach is all the more important when our report shows some households remain exposed, at a time when the UK’s electricity bills appear world-beatingly high and debt weighs down bill-payers’ finances to an alarming degree.”
A review into cheaper electricity rates during periods of low demand has been ongoing for three years, with no clear timeline for implementation.
The PAC warned that delays in this review mean it is still uncertain when consumers will see lower bills.
Instead, the government is relying on the roll-out of cheap renewable energy to bring down costs over time.
However, the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero is still in the early stages of considering how to better target its support schemes.
While the PAC praised the government for its swift response to past energy crises, it stressed that urgent action is needed as the UK increases its reliance on renewables.
Meanwhile, Ofgem acknowledged ongoing challenges, urging struggling households to seek support from energy suppliers or advisory groups like Citizens Advice.
