vocL Hosted Network Evening 08/04/25: How Energy Transition Can Deliver Greater Value For All

On a brilliant evening at the Arcadis offices in London, vocL brought together voices from across industry and policy to tackle one of the most urgent and complex topics facing the UK today: the energy transition. Hosted by Juergen Maier, this live panel event examined what a “just transition” really means and how the UK can lead the charge towards a cleaner, fairer, and more secure energy future.

The conversation explored the once-in-a-generation opportunity the UK has to transform its energy systems, not just to meet net zero targets, but to unlock real economic and social value. From offshore wind and hydrogen to electric vehicles and smart grids, we heard how the transition is already reshaping industries, creating jobs, and boosting regional regeneration. Panellists emphasised that energy security is no longer just an environmental issue but a strategic one. By investing in homegrown, renewable energy, the UK can reduce reliance on volatile fossil fuel markets and protect itself from global price shocks.

A key focus was on affordability. With energy bills still high, the panel acknowledged the public demand for more immediate benefits. As renewable infrastructure scales and technology matures, long-term costs are expected to fall but the journey there will require bold regulatory reform, smarter market design, and a renewed partnership between government and business. The audience engaged deeply with this question, challenging panelists on how to ensure the consumer sees more of the benefits sooner, both in job creation and reduced costs.

The panel discussion featured:

Host: Juergen Maier – Co-Founder of vocL
Brendan May – Founder and Chairman of Robertsbridge
Genta Haxhija – Social Value Lead – Energy, Morgan Sindall
Andrew Gall – Head of Savings & Economics, Building Societies Association
Victoria Parrett – Senior Public Affairs Advisor, Renewable UK