AG INSIGHT | 13/02/2026
The month in review – January 2026
This month, the Aldersgate Group has continued to make the case for ambitious climate and environmental measures that drive economic growth and reinforce energy security. We hosted several high-level events and continued our engagement with key stakeholders on important climate and environmental policy developments.
In a busy start to the year for the government, Aldersgate Group provided reactive commentary on the announcements from the government on the AR7 Energy Auction results, the publication of government’s water white paper, and the release of the Warm Homes Plan. Our supportive comment on the energy auction results was also covered in the government’s own press release.
2. Policy news
The long-awaited Water Industry White Paper was published on 20 January, setting out the government’s plans to reset regulation of the water industry. In our response, we welcomed the move towards a supervisory regulatory approach, alongside commitments to increased funding for catchment partnerships and pre-pipe solutions. The policy team is developing further work on water, including potential engagement with the forthcoming Water Bill.
On Monday 26 January, the Aldersgate Group and ISEP hosted a webinar on an upcoming jointly authored Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP) business product, developed in collaboration with Defra’s Council for Sustainable Business. The session gave members the opportunity to share views on the draft report, which will summarise the EIP25 for a business audience.
Members of the Aldersgate Group team also attended a meeting at 10 Downing Street to discuss the design and implementation of the Nature Restoration Fund (NRF) following the passing of the Planning and Infrastructure Act.
3. AG Insights
From targets to traction: aligning business incentives with the Environment Act.
Guy Thompson, Director at Aldersgate Group, wrote for the website on how smarter regulation and better incentives can unlock private investment to clean up rivers, restore nature and grow the economy.
