The Energy White Paper laid out a bold vision for the future of heat which will prompt huge transformation of gas and electricity networks and the way we heat our buildings. Recent acceleration of climate reduction targets mean that this transformation will take place in a relatively short timescale, with gas boilers banned in new (more…)

In the wake of the pandemic and PR19 and with ambitious sustainability goals on the horizon, Ofwat is getting to work on PR24.  This lecture will consider the factors that are contributing to the high level design for the new regulatory period, whether that be the importance of consumer engagement, the need for resilience in (more…)

The energy price cap was originally intended as a temporary measure with annual reviews and new legislation required to extend it beyond 2023.  As this deadline approaches this lecture will consider whether this remains the most appropriate solution for the problem it set out to solve or whether an alternative, such as auto-switching or some (more…)

In February 2021, some 4.4 million Texans were left without power, heat and running water for several days due to damage caused by severe cold weather.  California has also suffered blackouts in the past 18 months in the context of extreme hot weather across the Western U.S. Both states are leaders in the deployment of (more…)

Recent appeals of regulatory settlements have thrown into light the different grounds for and bases of appeals in each sector.  This lecture will examine the basis on which appeals are made, whether the current structure of different appeals processes is suitable; whether there should instead be a common basis to achieve consistency and if so (more…)

The Digital Markets Unit (DMU) has been established within the Competition and Markets Authority to set up a new pro-competition regime for platforms including those funded by digital advertising to create and enforce a new statutory code of conduct to give consumers more choice and control over their data and to oversee the ‘tech giants’.  (more…)

Disagreement over setting appropriate rates of return has been a key driver behind recent appeals of regulatory settlements, with different regulators and the CMA in hearing appeals taking often fundamentally different approaches in calculating the cost of capital.  Falling interest rates combined with consumer and political pressure to reduce costs have made this a critical (more…)

The report by John Penrose MP examined how the UK can enhance its competition regime and how competition policy can support the economic recovery from Covid-19 and the Government’s ‘levelling up’ agenda. This lecture will explore the key themes of the report including tackling consumer rip-offs and bad business practices; ensuring the competition regime is (more…)

If you’re interested in attending Oxford or Cambridge, then you could benefit from our day of insight and information about Oxbridge life as we provide valuable advice on personal statements, interview dos and don’ts and topics worth investigating before your interview. Our next Oxbridge Training Day will take place via zoom on 28th September 2021. (more…)