Elon Musk Faces 8,000 Objections as Tesla Seeks UK Power Licence

More than 8,000 people have formally objected to Tesla’s application to supply electricity to British households, citing concerns over owner Elon Musk’s political affiliations. The energy regulator, Ofgem, received these objections as Tesla aims to enter the UK energy market by as early as 2026.

Tesla submitted its application last month, seeking a licence to provide power to homes and businesses across England, Scotland, and Wales. The objections are largely driven by Musk’s perceived political agenda, including his support for controversial figures like Donald Trump and far-right activist Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon.

The campaign group Best for Britain has been instrumental in rallying public opposition, encouraging citizens to voice their concerns to Ofgem. The group’s chief executive, Naomi Smith, stated, “We’ve all had a front row seat to Musk’s malign influence,” referring to his activities on social media and the potential implications for UK energy supply.

Smith emphasized the urgency of the situation, urging the public to act before the deadline on March 15, 2024. She noted that the time to express opposition is limited and called on individuals to use their online tool to submit objections to Ofgem, stating that the process takes just two minutes.

Tesla’s entry into the UK market could represent a significant shift in the energy sector. The company has experience in energy supply, with existing operations in Texas that allow customers to purchase cheaper off-peak electricity and sell surplus solar power back to the grid. Electric vehicle expert Jordan Marsden remarked on social media platform X, “Look out Octopus, Elon is coming for you,” suggesting that Tesla’s involvement could lead to lower energy prices in the UK.

Tesla’s application, which was signed by Andrew Payne, director of the company’s energy business in Europe, marks a new chapter for the firm in the UK. Since entering the market in 2020 as an electricity generator, Tesla has sold over a quarter of a million electric vehicles and tens of thousands of home storage batteries in the country.

The decision on whether Tesla will receive the licence to supply electricity will ultimately rest with Ofgem, which is expected to review the public feedback before making a determination. Public comments on the application are being accepted until the deadline, after which Ofgem will consider all objections and make a ruling.

As the situation develops, the implications of Tesla’s potential entry into the UK energy market remain a point of contention among consumers and advocates alike.