UK's Oil & Gas Dilemma: Russell Borthwick, Aberdeen Grampian Chamber of Commerce

In this episode, host Stuart Broadley welcomes Russell Borthwick, CEO of the Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce (AGCC), for a deep dive into the economic "storm" currently facing the energy capital of Europe. Following AGCC’s recognition as the UK Chamber of Commerce of the Year, Russell shares why he has become a vocal advocate against policies he believes are over-accelerating the decline of the North Sea.

Stuart and Russell explore the "self-made challenge" of current UK energy policy, contrasting it with the approach of peer nations like Norway, where the industry remains a celebrated pillar of national wealth. They discuss the North Sea Transition Task Force and the urgent call for an independent body—similar to the Bank of England—to set long-term energy strategy above the fray of short-term political cycles.

The conversation pulls no punches on the human and economic cost of the transition. From the loss of a "Grangemouth per fortnight" in jobs to the "crisis of confidence" spreading into the wider regional economy of transport, retail, and professional services, Russell argues that the UK is at risk of repeating the de-industrialization of 1980s coal communities. This episode provides a critical look at the "bridge" needed to protect a world-class supply chain while navigating the road to Net Zero.