Failed energy policy

sir – Some 40 per cent of our electricity comes from gas. The rest comes from coal, nuclear and solar power, and wind. If the latter energy generators are receiving the same prices for electricity as generators using gas, they are making massive profits.

The public are still paying green levies, and the Government is enjoying inflated VAT receipts. Meanwhile, the operation of a proper market is corrupted by the price cap. The country is far from self-sufficient, yet we have abundant energy resources.

Energy is the biggest policy failure since the Second World War.

Stuart Moore

Bramham, West Yorkshire

sir – Prices for electricity produced by renewables and nuclear power in Britain are high because they are tied to gas prices and not related to the cost of production. This absurd situation is due to contracts signed by successive governments and renewable energy suppliers between 2002 and 2013.

In 2021 renewables and nuclear power produced 49 per cent of British electricity. Now, the average cost of producing electricity through a mix of renewables and nuclear power is roughly one fifth of the cost of electricity from gas-powered generators.

The next prime minister must address this. Consumers are not reaping the rewards of their green levy payments over many years for renewable energy development.

John Leng

Christchurch, Dorset

sir – Years ago I was offered a pair of extremely heavy brocade curtains from a grand old house, which were lined with blankets (Letters, August 30). Back in the days of no central heating and draughty homes, people obviously knew how to keep the cold winds out.

I think this winter I may regret declining the offer.

Barbara Smith

Stafford