Copyright Arkansas Online
Since arriving in London as U.S. ambassador to the United Kingdom, the nation's high energy costs have dominated my conversations with politicians, business leaders, and other diplomats. In fact, in my first meeting with Prime Minister Starmer we discussed how the country could attract more foreign direct investment from the United States. My response was simple: Lower your energy costs. As U.S. ambassador, I take seriously my responsibility to help the UK remain the strongest possible ally it can be to the United States. A strong economy is essential to that partnership. When I meet with British business leaders--whether on AI, technology, agriculture, or manufacturing--the message is the same: High energy prices are holding back growth. Without affordable energy, businesses face significant challenges in building data centers, expanding operations, or developing new products. Today, energy prices in the UK for industry are four times higher than in the United States, and more than double for its consumers. The good news is that U.S. companies are eager to invest in the UK, especially in the energy sectors, deepening the ties between our nations and preparing the groundwork for growth. By unlocking the potential of commercial nuclear energy and easing restrictions on North Sea oil and gas, Britain can secure affordable, reliable energy from its own resources. This would not only reduce dependence on volatile global markets and unreliable international partners but also generate additional tax revenue to support public services. During President Trump's historic second state visit, U.S. and UK firms working on small and advanced modular reactors announced $100 billion in new partnerships. This collaboration underscores the transformative potential of nuclear energy. In addition, the UK has an immediate opportunity to capitalize on this momentum by designating the Wylfa site in North Wales for a Gigawatt-scale nuclear project. Such a project would create thousands of jobs, provide affordable baseload power, and reduce reliance on weather-dependent or geopolitically vulnerable energy sources. Importantly, private investors are prepared to fund the majority of the project, minimizing the need for taxpayer contributions. At the same time, easing restrictions on North Sea oil and gas production and taking advantage of the untapped shale reserves would strengthen the UK's energy security, support domestic industries and jobs, and generate new tax revenues. The Labour Government's recent announcement that it will revise its approach to the North Sea is a welcome first step. Paired with bold action on nuclear energy, these measures would position the UK to achieve its economic growth ambitions. As President Trump noted in his toast to His Majesty the King, the United States deeply respects Britain's commitment to preserving its natural landscape. America, too, is undertaking a generational effort to protect its national parks, led by President Trump. Prioritizing affordable, reliable energy is not, however, at odds with environmental stewardship, which is based after all on sustainability. Refusing to embrace domestic energy production in pursuit of artificial targets is not a sustainable strategy for an economy of the UK's size and complexity. Our nations need more energy, not less. We must ensure that energy comes from reliable sources and trusted partners. Growth begins with affordable energy. As the UK looks to a future defined by innovation and opportunity, the United States stands ready to support our allies. Warren A. Stephens is U.S. ambassador to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. The article above was first published in The Telegraph in the UK, site here: https://arkansasonline.com/1022stephens/
