Alternative Thinking 2013 -- Renewable Energy Under The Microscope

In his Labour Party Conference speech this week and a subsequent BBC interview, Prime Minister Andy Burnham said the UK should assess a range of options for its EU relationship – from the status quo, through a customs...

Ofgem's proposed data centre connection reforms introduce substantial upfront commitment fees ranging from £237,500 to £712,500 per MW and stringent queue management milestones for projects seeking grid connections. Will these measures successfully eliminate speculative projects while preserving viable data centre developments, or will they drive investment away from the UK entirely?

Ofgem has approved a revised timetable for Gate 2 connection offers under the Gate 2 to Whole Queue process, extending key deadlines that may affect project financing, programme risk and contractual alignment. The decision provides clarity on the National Energy System Operator's licence obligations and introduces phased delivery milestones for energy projects progressing through the connections queue.

The LNG sector has emerged as a critical battleground for force majeure disputes, shaped by COVID-19, sanctions against Russia, and the Ukraine energy crisis.

10 March 2026 was a defining day for EU energy policy. The European Commission published its new strategy for nuclear, offering it a central place in the EU’s energy vision. Two key documents set out its approach: the Strategy for the development and deployment of Small Modular Reactors in Europe (the EU SMR Strategy) and the final 8th Nuclear Illustrative Programme under Article 40 Euratom (the 8th PINC).

The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) recently published its ‘Curate – Demand Connections Reform’ consultation, setting out proposals to reshape how data centre projects access and hold positions in the UK's electricity grid connection queue.

The UK's rapid expansion of data centres to support its AI ambitions is creating an unprecedented energy challenge, with over 125 gigawatts of projects waiting for National Grid access while demand is expected to increase six-fold by 2035. As grid connection delays threaten to constrain development, operators are increasingly turning to alternative 'behind-the-meter' energy solutions that bypass traditional infrastructure bottlenecks.

New regulations permit plug-in solar systems in domestic properties across Great Britain, removing significant barriers to small-scale renewable energy generation. What practical implications do these changes have for landlords, tenants, and property owners navigating consent requirements, insurance considerations, and compliance obligations?

Scotland's hydrogen sector is advancing rapidly as developers and investors navigate the complex landscape of land rights, infrastructure requirements, and regulatory frameworks needed to achieve ambitious production targets. With 5GW targeted by 2030 and 25GW by 2045, the intersection of real estate, planning, and evolving EU standards will determine which projects successfully deliver low-carbon hydrogen production and export capabilities.

A New Vision for Water introduces reforms that organisations across the water supply chain, industry, agriculture, development and local government need to prepare for.