The UK government is set to propose an Energy Independence Act aimed at expanding domestic renewable energy development and enhancing national energy security.

King Charles III confirmed the legislation in his speech at the State Opening of Parliament today, marking the formal start of the government's new legislative agenda for the coming year.

He stated, "Energy independence must be a long-term goal for national security, and national energy security requires long-term investment and reform—recent events in the Middle East have demonstrated this."

The bill will focus on:

Accelerating the development of clean energy technologies Streamlining approval processes for renewable energy projects and infrastructure Expanding the powers of the UK energy regulator, Ofgem

Additionally, he indicated that the government will promote the arrival of a "new era for nuclear power generation in the UK."

Currently, the UK relies heavily on Norway and the United States for most of its energy supply, with fossil fuels still accounting for over 70% of the country's total energy provision.

As Europe's dependence on external energy sources continues to rise, it is projected that by 2026, U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports will constitute two-thirds of Europe's LNG imports.

Fuel price surges, influenced by the conflict in Iran, drove the UK's inflation rate to 3.3% in March 2026.

A report from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) noted, "This shock is global, but its impact is not symmetrical. Energy-importing countries are more vulnerable than exporters, poorer nations are more susceptible than wealthier ones, and countries with insufficient reserves face greater pressure than those with ample reserves."