The UK government has banned new oil and gas licenses in the North Sea, while simultaneously spending £40 billion to purchase North Sea oil and gas from Norway. Additionally, the UK is importing coking coal shipments worth £7.2 million from Japan despite banning domestic coal mining. There is growing concern over the decision to cover thousands of acres of productive farmland with solar panels, which critics argue could reduce domestic food supply and threaten food security. This policy contrasts with Italy's ban on ground-mounted solar panels on agricultural land. The UK Energy Secretary's decision to override the planning inspectorate to approve a large solar farm project in rural eastern England has sparked controversy. Meanwhile, the UK is promoting onshore wind energy initiatives, offering job creation and community incentives such as football pitches and libraries. However, some critics question the effectiveness of wind power, citing issues like "wind theft" and industry calls for subsidies despite underperformance.