The UK has officially withdrawn from the Energy Charter Treaty (ECT), a decision announced by Energy Security and Net Zero Minister Graham Stuart.
The move follows prolonged discussions among European nations regarding the treaty’s alignment with net zero objectives.
Established in 1994 to encourage international investment in the energy sector, the ECT has faced challenges in adapting to cleaner energy technologies.
The UK’s departure from the treaty aligns it with several EU countries, including France, Spain and the Netherlands, who have also opted out.
Minister of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, Graham Stuart, said: “The Energy Charter Treaty is outdated and in urgent need of reform but talks have stalled and sensible renewal looks increasingly unlikely.
“Remaining a member would not support our transition to cleaner, cheaper energy and could even penalise us for our world-leading efforts to deliver net zero.
“With £30 billion invested in the energy sector just since September, we continue to lead the world in cutting emissions, attracting international investment and providing the strongest legal protections for those who invest here.”
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