Power stations are in line to receive increased payments to avert an energy shortage following a second alert issued within a short timeframe. The ongoing heatwave has led to a surge in demand as households and businesses turn to air conditioning and electric fans for cooling, while reduced wind power generation adds to the strain. Moreover, scorching temperatures in Europe have limited the UK’s ability to rely on electricity imports.
The National Energy System Operator (NESO) has urged power stations to boost output between 7pm and 10pm on Friday, following a similar request earlier in the week that reportedly resulted in a £10 million windfall for operators. Gas currently contributes to about 27% of Britain’s energy supply, with solar close behind at 26% and wind at 18%.
NESO’s electricity margin notice (EMN) highlighted a potential 446-megawatt shortfall between expected demand and available supply, aiming to ensure a safety cushion in power generation. While the tight margins are a result of high temperatures affecting the UK and Europe, NESO reassured that the EMN does not indicate an immediate risk of blackouts.
Concerns primarily revolve around meeting power demands during peak evening hours rather than a drastic surge in consumption. Despite the UK relying on imports for 13% of its energy needs, disruptions in power station operations on the continent due to increased demand have added to the challenge.
The situation coincides with a heatwave affecting Western Europe, leading to record-breaking temperatures. In France, two nuclear power plants were temporarily shut down to comply with safety limits amid the extreme heat.