Switched on

Following warnings about possible power cuts in the UK (your report, 4 February), Ofgem's report highlights a challenge that has been the subject of open discussion for some time and to which there is no single solution. The "energy gap" will ultimately be addressed through a combination of measures – from how we think about energy as consumers to how we satisfy our energy needs.

The real challenge is creating the market conditions that will attract the 200 billion investment Ofgem believes is necessary for our energy infrastructure – from gas storage and new generation capacity to the smart grid and smart meter infrastructure that will enable us to transform our relationship with the energy we use.

Above all, policy-makers, focused on carbon reduction and energy security, must understand that we use energy because it enhances our lives every minute of every day – from staying connected with others to keeping us warm and entertained in our homes. People can be trusted to understand the challenges we face if we want to continue to benefit from affordable, secure energy use.

We should be talking about what we can do to use energy more intelligently and take ownership of managing our total energy bill, rather than being told about a potential age of energy austerity which we as individuals have very little power to do anything about.

RICH HAMPSHIRE

Logica

Lochside Crescent

Edinburgh