Podcasts
Why is productivity slowing down—and what does it mean for growth?
Across developed economies—including the UK, France, Japan, and the US—productivity growth has been slowing for decades. This trend appears to contradict the rapid pace of technological innovation, particularly in AI, and the transformative effects of globalisation. So why, despite all this progress, is economic growth falling? In this episode of… Read More
Reform of the German electricity grid tariff system: should producers pay grid charges?
The German regulator Bundesnetzagentur (BNetzA) published a discussion paper regarding the future of electricity grid charges in Germany in May 2025.1 The paper asks critical questions regarding the future grid charging architecture in Germany and the consultation could yield a complete system overhaul in relation to tariff design. Read More
Ofgem RIIO-3 Draft Determinations
On 1 July 2025, Ofgem published its Draft Determinations (DDs) for the RIIO-3 price control for the GB electricity transmission (ET), gas distribution (GD) and gas transmission (GT) sectors for the period 2026 to 2031.1 The DDs set out the envisaged regulatory framework, including the baseline cost allowances,… Read More
Time to get real about hydrogen (and the regulatory tools to do so)
It’s ‘time for a reality check’ on the realistic prospects of progress towards the EU’s ambitious hydrogen goals, according to the European Court of Auditors’ (ECA) evaluation of the EU’s renewable hydrogen strategy.1 The same message is echoed in some recent assessments within member states, for example by… Read More
Financing the green transition: can private capital bridge the gap?
The green transition isn’t just about switching from fossil fuels to renewable or zero-carbon sources—it also requires smarter, more efficient use of energy. By harnessing technology, improving energy efficiency, and generating power closer to where it’s consumed, we can cut both costs and carbon emissions. In this episode of Top… Read More
A map of AI policies in the EEA and UK
Oxera offers an overview of AI-related policies in EEA countries and the UK through an interactive map. This AI Policy Map allows users to follow developments in AI regulation and examine national policy approaches in more detail. Artificial intelligence (AI) is driving technological change at an unprecedented pace, transforming industries,… Read More
From vision to viability: using microeconomics to implement the Strategic Defence Review
After much anticipation, this month the UK government published its long-awaited Strategic Defence Review (SDR). The SDR is the UK’s response to the challenge facing all European countries: namely, how to protect ourselves in a geo-political climate that has become both riskier and more uncertain. Led by former NATO Secretary… Read More
Assessing the profitability of motorway concessions in France
France’s ecological transition demands the modernisation of motorway infrastructure to support electrification, reduce emissions, and align with new mobility trends. As current concession contracts approach expiration, public authorities must establish a framework that achieves ecological goals while optimising public resources. The concession model, which entrusts private entities with managing infrastructure,… Read More
The Big McBroadband index: a recipe for more meaningful cross-country price comparisons
Price benchmarking exercises are an often used tool by policymakers. When comparing prices across countries, common practice is to make purchasing power parity (PPP) adjustments to control for differences in local price levels and the cost of living (e.g. wages, rent, and taxation). This helps shift the focus from… Read More
Investment opportunities in the water sector
A new model (Direct Procurement for Consumers, DPC), and an extension of the Specified Infrastructure Project Regulations (SIPR), are being used as a means of introducing competition into the delivery of new infrastructure in the England and Wales water sector. The current major projects pipeline requires £50bn across 30… Read More