Deputy general secretary Garry Graham said: “Today’s report represents a fundamental step forward in seeking to reach evidence-based conclusions and recommendations for the UK energy market that recognise the need to balance the demands for sufficient capacity, security of supply, and a long-term shift to low-carbon generation, with ensuring that the consumer gets a fair deal.

“But the fact that the poorest, oldest and most vulnerable are not engaging with the market proves steps still need to be taken to ensure less active consumers are not exploited and their position protected.

“The interim findings cut through some of the political rhetoric and demonisation of the industry that we have seen from some commentators. We particularly welcome the fact a further break up of the industry has been disregarded and the benefits for businesses and consumers from vertical integration have been recognised.”

But that does not mean, he said, that there is room for complacency. “We have consistently argued for greater transparency in the industry – and there is evidence that the sector has already made significant progress towards this aim.

Graham also said more needs to be done to regain public trust, a vital factor in providing the political and regulatory stability needed to secure the investment needed for the new and existing generating capacity and network infrastructure that the UK needs.