The energy report

The UK's energy sector has seen enormous changes over the 1990s, as privatization and liberalization of markets have opened up opportunities for new structures and innovative approaches, as well as introducing the commercial pressures of competition.

The picture remains fluid with the completion in 2000 of the opening of the electricity and gas markets to full competition.

This market transformation has already brought significant benefits to consumers through lower fuel prices and better levels of service.

Recognizing that the existing energy regulatory regime has been overtaken by changes in the market, the Government is reforming the entire framework of utility regulation so that it is more appropriate to current and prospective market developments.

This report summarizes policy development and events across the whole of the UK energy sector and reviews the events from 1999 to 2000 in each of the energy industries.