UK strikes energy deal with firm linked to Putin’s gas exports

illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on Politico or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: The UK has entered a four-year, up to £8 billion gas supply contract with TotalEnergies Gas and Power, a subsidiary of TotalEnergies, which is still importing Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Europe 
• This deal includes heating for public sector bodies such as hospitals and government departments

🔭 The context: TotalEnergies, despite the UK's stance against Russian fossil fuel exports, continues to be a significant importer of Russian LNG into Europe 
• The UK government insists that the gas supplied under this contract will be sourced from Britain’s domestic market, minimizing the likelihood of Russian gas presence

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The contract juxtaposes the UK's public opposition to Russian energy with its financial engagements, highlighting complexities in energy sourcing and geopolitical stances amidst efforts to secure energy without supporting Russia's war efforts

⏭️ What's next: The deal, lasting until 2027, aims at centralizing and reducing energy costs for public bodies 
• However, it raises concerns about the effectiveness of sanctions against Russia and the ethical implications of such contracts on global energy policies and relations

💬 One quote: "For a government focused on energy security and supporting Ukraine, buying gas from Total should be a non-starter,” (Louis Wilson, head of fossil fuels investigations with Global Witness)

Click for more news covering the latest on oil and gas