The government today named Mark McAllister, Britain’s top nuclear regulator, as its candidate to be the next chair of Ofgem.
McAllister currently heads the Office for Nuclear Regulation. His 40 year career predominantly in oil & gas makes up, in the words of Amanda Solloway MP, minister for energy consumers & affordability, a “strong industry track record” to oversee the wider markets and consumer protection regulator.
McAllister’s selection follows a competitive recruitment process. He will be scrutinised by Parliament’s Energy Security and Net Zero (ESNZ) select committee at a pre-appointment hearing. If confirmed, his Ofgem tenure will start in November.
Responsible for helping shape the regulator’s strategy and policy decisions, as Ofgem Chair McAllister will champion the interests of electricity and gas consumers.
Tasks filling the former theology student’s in-tray, as he works with Ofgem director general Jonathan Brearley, will be ensuring that UK energy markets are fit for the future. Issues requiring immediate attention include reforming the grid to supporting households in accessing smarter, more flexible energy.
Minister Solloway added: “We will always ensure the energy market is working for families to protect them from sky high bills, including by working closely with our partners at Ofgem.
“Mark McAllister has a strong track record of advising governments and regulators on competition and regulation. His expertise will be vital in the years ahead, as we make sure more households have access to cheaper, cleaner energy.
The minister offered warm thanks to Martin Cave, Ofgem’s chair since 2018.
McAllister chaired the UK offshore industry body which formulated a joint response of extractors, trade unions and government to the 2010 BP Macondo Deepwater Horizon blowout in the Gulf of Mexico, which killed 11 workers.
