News · 16 January 2026
UK energy supply chains face threat from China dependency
Photo by Pavel Neznanov on Unsplash
Research from the Institute for Public Policy Research warns that supply chain disruptions could threaten 90,000 UK jobs and halt production of 580,000 electric vehicles from 2030. China dominates refinement of critical minerals used in batteries, solar panels and wind turbines essential for the UK's net zero targets. A year-long supply interruption could cost the UK an additional £1.5 billion annually in energy imports while delaying renewable energy deployment. The think tank recommends building domestic production capacity, diversifying suppliers and creating strategic stockpiles to reduce vulnerability to trade shocks and geopolitical tensions.
Reported by Energy Connects · How we write briefs