TotalEnergies’ new UK boss Anton Roberts says the energy transition is “going to be hard” and warned that the cost of decarbonisation remains one of the biggest pressures facing businesses.
In his first interview since taking over as CEO of TotalEnergies UK, Roberts told Energy Live News the company is focusing on helping customers balance ambition with realism.
“It’s absolutely going to be a grind,” he said. “The cost of investment is going up and so is uncertainty. That’s the real challenge for business — managing both.”
He admitted that while the appetite for net zero remains strong, the reality is getting tougher.
“Our customers still have the same passion for decarbonisation, but it’s becoming more complex and confusing. We have a huge role in helping them navigate that complexity.”
Roberts believes TotalEnergies’ transition story is key to that support.
“We’re a huge investor worldwide in net zero,” he said. “In the UK we’re putting more money into offshore wind and solar and offering more green products to customers. It’s at the heart of our strategy.”
Gas, he stressed, remains part of that strategy. “Gas is a transition fuel. The UK can’t do without it right now,” Roberts said.
“We’ll help customers use less gas where they can, and where they can’t, help them switch to more sustainable versions.”
On costs, he said the industry must give customers better tools and choices.
“You can’t avoid the cost — it’s going to be shared across the industry. What we can do is provide flexibility, products and technology that let customers decide how and when they use energy.”
He sees digitalisation as the next frontier.
“Energy suppliers will become technology providers. It’s no longer just about sending a bill — it’s about energy as a service, using data and AI to help customers take control.”
Roberts said TotalEnergies would stay “led by our customers” on net zero products, with the company continuing to invest globally in renewables and storage.
“The transition is tough but the UK is still leading in EVs and renewables. Our job is to make sure our customers can be part of that success.”
Watch the full interview below
TotalEnergies boss says transition will be hard but will happen appeared first on Energy Live News.