Report: Demand better - A smarter, fairer energy retail market

David Watson 14 Apr 2026
Written by David Watson, Tom Deen
Policy and Regulation Strategy and Commercial Energy Transition Energy

The UK has made significant progress on renewable generation, but the retail energy market framework is now holding the next phase of the transition back.

Built for a legacy model of commodity supply, the current system is not set up to support the flexibility, innovation and customer engagement required to deliver Clean Power 2030.

In partnership with Energy UK, our latest report sets out where the framework is failing today, and what needs to change, drawing on perspectives from across suppliers, technology providers and consumer groups.

Retail market reform is a critical enabler, with the potential to deliver between £30bn and £70bn in consumer savings by 2050. Realising this opportunity will require a fundamental rethink of how we attract investment, enable innovation and engage consumers.

The report identifies four interconnected barriers holding the market back, alongside clear, practical recommendations to create a retail environment that supports providers and delivers better outcomes for customers.

Read the report below, or click here

Join senior industry experts at our Breakfast Briefing

Join industry experts on 23 April to discuss the findings, share insights, and explore how we can build a more flexible, customer-focused energy system. Register to join the session online here.

If you'd like to explore how these recommendations impact your organisation, please get in touch with our team.

Contact

Meet the Team

David Watson

Principal

As Principal at BFY, David leads client engagements on energy strategy, policy and commercial excellence, helping them to navigate a complex policy and regulatory landscape, capitalise on emerging opportunities in the energy transition and optimise their operating models for long-term success.

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Tom Deen

Consultant

Tom works with clients to maximise efficiencies, improve processes, and ensure strong relationships are maintained.

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