Reform UK’s energy policies have come under scrutiny, with experts warning their anti-net zero stance could harm the UK economy and climate ambitions.
The party’s 2024 election manifesto dedicates little space to environmental issues, despite deputy leader Richard Tice frequently criticising “net stupid zero.”
Investigations show Tice’s own companies have supported net zero policies, boasting commitments to reducing CO2 emissions, highlighting a gap between rhetoric and practice. Reform UK claims scrapping net zero will cut bills and boost growth, yet evidence suggests otherwise.
The Confederation of British Industry reports that the UK net zero economy grew by 10.1% in 2024, generating £83.1bn in value and supporting 951,000 jobs, typically well-paid roles contributing £105,500 each to the economy.
Louise Hellem, CBI chief economist, emphasises: “You can’t have growth without green.” Meanwhile, the Office for National Statistics confirms ongoing GDP growth in 2025, with Quarter 2 rising 0.3% from the previous quarter and 1.2% year-on-year.
Reform UK’s claims that renewables drive up bills are contradicted by official data. Onshore wind costs have halved since 2015, with solar and wind now cheaper than fossil fuels. The National Grid states energy bill spikes are mainly due to global gas price volatility, not renewables.
The party’s support for North Sea oil and gas is similarly questionable. Production has fallen two-thirds since 2000, and future licences would have minimal impact by 2050. Reform UK’s suggestion that scrapping net zero could save £30bn ignores the long-term economic costs of climate change, projected to reach 3.3% of GDP by 2050 and 7.4% by 2100.
Polling shows 60% of Britons support net zero, including strong backing from Labour, Liberal Democrat, and Green voters, with only 23% of Reform UK supporters in favour. The party has received significant donations from oil and gas interests, reportedly 92% of its funding since 2019, raising concerns about industry influence on its policies.
Experts warn that Reform UK’s short slogans and anti-environment rhetoric fail to account for economic, legal, and moral realities. Net zero investment continues to offer economic growth, job creation, and support for the UK’s climate commitments.
Reform UK did not respond to requests for comment.
