Engage Consulting was delighted to attend the Young Energy Professionals (YEP) Forum’s 2026 Parliamentary Reception on Wednesday 15 July, held at the Thames Pavilion in the Houses of Parliament and hosted by Kirsty Blackman MP.
Kindly supported by NESO and facilitated by Energy UK, the reception brought together young professionals, senior leaders from across the energy industry and parliamentarians to celebrate the Forum’s work and inspire the future leaders of the sector.
Celebrating the People Behind the Energy Transition
Guests heard reflections from Michael Shanks MP (Minister of State for Energy), Dhara Vyas (Energy UK CEO) and Craig Dyke (NESO Director of System Operations) on the opportunities and challenges facing the energy industry – and on the jobs, skills and role of young energy professionals that are crucial to the sector’s success.
The YEP Forum is a community of more than 3,000 members, representing over 350 organisations, that promotes the next generation of energy industry leaders by providing opportunities to meet, collaborate, develop and recognise success. Its work is a vital part of ensuring the UK energy sector has the talent and skills needed to deliver a secure, affordable and Net Zero future. NESO has extended its sponsorship of the Forum into 2026, underlining the industry’s commitment to supporting new talent.
Reflections from Engage Consulting
Engage Consulting’s Chris Cook, Head of Consultancy, who attended the reception alongside Charles Moore, said:
“It was a valuable opportunity to connect with the next generation of energy sector talent, hear fresh perspectives on the future of the industry, and reflect on the role we all play in supporting people as they build their careers.
“Events like this are an important reminder that the energy transition will be shaped not only by policy, technology and investment, but by the people developing the skills, ideas and relationships needed to deliver it.
“Thank you to YEP, NESO and Energy UK for continuing to create spaces that bring the sector together and support emerging leaders across the industry.”
Supporting the Next Generation of Energy Leaders
As independent energy industry experts, providing specialist advisory and project management services since 2000, we know that people are at the heart of every successful industry change – from Market-wide Half Hourly Settlement (MHHS) to the wider transition to Net Zero. Supporting the development of emerging talent is essential to unlocking the full benefits of that transition for clients and consumers alike.
We look forward to continuing to engage with the YEP Forum and to playing our part in supporting the people who will shape the future of the UK energy sector.
To find out more about how Engage Consulting supports organisations navigating the evolving UK energy landscape, contact our team.
