Paul Golby will reiterate E.On’s support for the building of new nuclear power stations as an option alongside renewables and clean coal, saying: "It is not a silver bullet but it is an option I believe the UK has to have."

He will warn: "It is five minutes to midnight and the clock is ticking. We have to move from consulting and talking to action. If we don’t, the UK will face serious problems a decade or so from now and the consequences of a likely second ‘dash for gas’ to keep the lights on will ultimately be seen as the wrong answer."

E.On UK’s Chief Executive will also endorse Prospect’s concern that without sufficient skilled engineers in place, the UK will struggle to meet its energy needs.

The conference is on Monday June 11 at the Royal Society in London.

Copies of Paul Golby’s speech will be available after the conference begins at 10.30am from Sherri Hoppen on 020 7902 6607.