Octopus Energy CEO and founder Greg Jackson has called for the United Kingdom to collaborate with China in developing clean technology, emphasizing that Chinese clean energy technology is currently the world's best and warning that the UK risks falling behind if it does not engage with China [1]. Jackson highlighted the importance of leveraging China's advanced know-how in clean power generation, battery storage, and other renewables, stating that working with Chinese companies can ensure resilience and accelerate the transition to cleaner energy [1].
Jackson referenced the ongoing Iran conflict as a reminder of the need to diversify energy technology supply chains and avoid overreliance on any single country or region. He noted, 'What we’re seeing with the Iran war is that geopolitical risks can disrupt energy flows and supply chains,' underscoring the strategic importance of collaboration with China to mitigate such risks [1].
Octopus Energy is actively seeking partnerships with Chinese companies and expanding its presence in Asia, including Japan and South Korea, with the aim of selling its energy products and technologies in these markets [1]. Jackson's statements reflect a broader industry sentiment that working with China is crucial for scaling up clean energy technologies and achieving ambitious climate goals. He argued that excluding Chinese expertise would be a strategic error for the UK and Europe, given the rapid innovation and cost competitiveness of the Chinese renewables sector [1].
CONCLUSION
Octopus Energy's CEO has made a strong case for UK-China collaboration in clean tech, citing China's leadership in the sector and the need for supply chain resilience amid geopolitical risks. The company's expansion into Asia and pursuit of Chinese partnerships signal a medium market impact, with positive sentiment toward accelerating the UK's clean energy transition.