Is Energy Stopping Growth in Britain?

In this episode of Wolfe Power Club, host Alex Wolfe examines the problems facing British industry, from delays in connecting new projects to the electricity grid to high energy costs. Microsoft has pulled out of its agreement with Nscale for a planned AI data centre in Loughton, Essex, after the grid connection was pushed back to the 2030s. What does this mean for investment in Britain? Alex also looks at an Oxford Economics report on the UK’s long-term investment shortfall, the cost of industrial electricity compared with other countries, and the impact of high and unpredictable energy prices on manufacturers. If Britain wants to attract investment, grow its industries and create jobs, does it need to get to grips with energy costs and grid connections? Resources The UK’s Investment Shortfall: https://www.oxfordeconomics.com/resource/the-uks-investment-shortfall/ Microsoft pulls out of AI datacentre project in Essex over power supply concerns: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2026/oct/18/microsoft-drops-huge-ai-datacentre-project-in-essex-over-power-supply-concerns Burnham announces 'Great British Grid: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/GoY7TrLhpa8 Electrify everything! Octopus boss on Britain's energy problems: https://youtu.be/5WgS-Dsm31E?si=RMhm8MkKcjczW2zY Why Climate Change Is Worse Than You Think | Global Warming Expert Emma Pinchbeck: https://youtu.be/2osysX_tYe0?si=geTCBBaQ4yguHsaT About The Host Alex Wolfe is CEO of the Renewable Transport Fuel Association, podcaster and host of the Wolfe Power Club Podcast, reaching 300,000 listeners weekly. He has over 20 years of experience in the energy industry, including senior roles at Certas Energy, responsibility for 900 fuel HGVs, and leading M&A activity within the UK fuel sector. Alex also chairs The Spectator Energy Summit and brings extensive experience across energy, transport and fuel markets to the Wolfe Power Club Podcast. Season Three is in Partnership with The Spectator Tickets for the upcoming The Spectator Energy Summit, on Monday 30th November 2026, are available on sale. Use code: WPC50 for 50% off your purchase If you would like to partner with The Spectator Energy Summit, please contact Alex on LinkedIn or [email protected] Follow Our Socials Website: https://www.wolfepowerclub.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WolfePowerClub LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wolfe-power-club/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Wolfe-Power-Club-61564466454360/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolfepowerclub/?hl=en TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wolfe.power.club   Wolfe Power Club Production Team Director of Government Relations: Max Austin Designer: Nick Pelekanos Editor: Adam Woodward Social Media Manager: Bella Carter   This episode was produced at Studio 55