The government defended the meetings, saying ministers held meetings with a wide range of representatives from the energy industry, unions and civil society to drive forward our clean energy superpower mission. But the findings have raised concern among critics about the extent of the fossil fuel industry's influence over government at a time when ministers are trying to lower bills and transition to a more sustainable energy system.
The energy transition is seemingly under assault, with Congressional Republicans killing tax credits for clean energy and the Trump administration threatening to cancel billions of dollars worth of grants. But there are signs the setback might not be as catastrophic for the transition as the headlines make it sound. Investor sentiment, which judging by the size of two new funds, remains strong.