The energy trilemma: priorities for the UK’s transition from a roundtable with Dr Angela Wilkinson

A roundtable last week chaired by Dr Angela Wilkinson, secretary general and CEO of the World Energy Council who delivered Prosper’s annual lecture in Aberdeen brought together representatives from across the energy industry, academia, government and regional leadership.

Participants included the World Energy Council’s senior director global partnerships Andrew Ritchie, chief executive Myrtle Dawes and director of government relations Stephen Sheal, both from the Net Zero Technology Centre, chief executive of the Energy Transition Zone Maggie McGinlay, MP for Gordon and Buchan Harriet Cross, CEO of Aspect Reputation Management Andrew McCallum, head of planning and economy at Aberdeenshire Council Paul Macari, director of the RGU Energy Transition Institute Paul de Leeuw, head of communications and stakeholder relations at Dana Petroleum Andrew Jones and Prosper’s senior leadership Shonaig Macpherson, Sara Thiam and Magnus Llewellin.

The discussion noted a clear shift in the global energy narrative, with many countries placing greater emphasis on security and resilience alongside climate goals. Participants reflected on whether UK policy is keeping pace with this broader international movement. A recurring theme was the importance of an “all‑energy” approach, recognising the continued role of oil and gas, renewables, nuclear and emerging technologies in maintaining a stable transition.

The group highlighted policy and fiscal stability as essential for long‑term investment, given the nature of energy infrastructure projects which last for decades through initial design and build, operation and decommissioning. The energy trilemma—security, affordability and sustainability—remained central throughout the conversation, with concerns that affordability and competitiveness receive insufficient attention.

Participants also observed a gap between public understanding and the complexity of energy systems, as well as opportunities to strengthen engagement between policymakers and industry. Overall, the meeting underscored the need for a more integrated and pragmatic national dialogue on the UK’s energy future.