Suggested response:

I agree that our first priority is to support people's finances, living standards and energy security.

You will know that in the past ten years we have experienced two major shocks to oil and gas supply, which have been a major driver of the increased cost of living. The price of gas remains the primary driver of high energy prices (UKERC, 2026).

Investment in renewables, including that made under Conservative administrations, has provided an important buffer reducing the impact of the recent shocks, which are likely to continue given continued instability in the Middle East. The annual electricity bill for a typical household has risen by £166 since 2021. After adjusting for inflation, two-thirds of this increase (£112) is due to higher wholesale gas prices. (Carbon Brief, 2026). Wind power has already lowered UK power prices by nearly a third. Average “day‑ahead” electricity prices in 2025 were about £83/MWh but without wind generation, it’s estimated that prices would have been £121/MWh. This £38/MWh saving represents a 31% reduction on the no‑wind price. (ECIU, 2026). (All references are provided at the end of this letter). Similarly, climate change is playing an important role in driving food price inflation. This is likely to intensify following the extreme heat and widespread drought across the UK and Europe this summer. I would like to understand the evidence that you are using when you suggest that the transition to renewables is driving the cost of living.