In this episode. Our host, Stuart Broadley, is joined by Robin Mills, CEO of Qamar Energy, for a conversation on energy security, geopolitics and the forces reshaping global oil, gas and power markets. Robin explores what recent developments mean for the future of the UK North Sea, the resilience of global energy supplies and the changing priorities of governments and energy companies around the world. The discussion begins with the UK North Sea following BP’s decision to exit the basin and the passing of Sir Ian Wood, one of the sector’s most influential figures. Robin examines whether the UK can still unlock investment from its mature offshore resources, contrasting its declining trajectory with more stable activity levels in Norway and exploring the relationship between domestic production, energy security, emission reduction, and investor confidence. The conversation then turns to the Middle East, where conflict and disruption around the Strait of Hormuz have exposed vulnerabilities in global energy supply chains. Robin looks at how Gulf countries are responding through new infrastructure, economic diversification and alternative export routes, while exploring the implications for major energy players including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Iran, the US and China. Looking ahead to ADIPEC 2026, they discuss how energy security could reshape the global energy debate. With geopolitical disruption strengthening the case for both secure hydrocarbon supplies and alternative sources of energy, they explore whether the current crisis could simultaneously drive further investment in oil and gas while accelerating renewables, electrification and other low-carbon technologies. At the heart of the conversation is a broader question: what does energy security really mean in an increasingly unpredictable world? Resilience comes from preparing before the next crisis arrives — diversifying energy sources, infrastructure and supply routes while building an energy system capable of responding to disruption without losing sight of long-term economic and environmental goals. What Is the EIC? The Energy Industries Council (EIC) is one of the world’s largest energy trade associations. As a not-for-profit organisation, it supports more than 950 member companies involved in the global energy value chain. EIC operates internationally, with offices in London, Kuala Lumpur, Rio de Janeiro, Houston, Dubai, and soon, Berlin. It is energy agnostic, supporting all parts of the energy sector. From mature renewable onshore and offshore sectors like wind, solar and hydropower; to grid infrastructure and large nuclear; to hydrocarbon sectors like oil & gas, LNG, FPSO, decommissioning, upstream, midstream and downstream; to emerging low-carbon sectors like hydrogen, carbon capture, CCUS, energy storage, BESS, biofuels, SAF (sustainable aviation fuels), and geothermal. EIC provides a wide range of services, including access to global market intelligence, CAPEX and OPEX project data, consulting support, events, business development opportunities, and advocacy. It also facilitates connections with key decision-makers and policymakers in the energy sector worldwide. Stay Connected with EIC Learn more about the EICExplore EIC membership Learn about EIC ConsultRead the full Survive & Thrive Report Contact Stuart Broadley about doing your own C-level EIC podcast at Stuart.Broadley@the-eic.com Produced, engineered, and promoted by: Samara Bernardo, Lucas Almeida, João Otero, Isabella Costa, Laura Carvalho, and Clara Machado.
