The UK’s gas network is operating at full capacity due to a shortfall in renewable energy production necessary for heating homes across the country.
Recent freezing conditions have led to a significant increase in energy demand. However, diminished wind speeds have resulted in reduced output from wind farms, as per data from National Gas and National Grid. Consequently, this weekend, gas is expected to supply up to two-thirds of the UK’s electricity.
Jon Butterworth, CEO of National Gas, has indicated that the demand on gas-fired power stations will reach its peak starting today and continuing throughout much of the weekend.
In light of the ongoing COP28 climate summit in Dubai, Mr. Butterworth emphasized the critical role of fossil fuels. He stated, “While decarbonization is essential, we must not overlook the importance of energy security. In a scenario where renewable energy sources like wind and solar are subject to interruptions, maintaining a secure energy supply is crucial. The more we depend on these weather-dependent energy sources, the greater the risk we face.”
British winters are notorious for extended periods of severe cold and minimal wind, a result of high-pressure atmospheric zones settling over the region. This weather pattern, known as “Dunkelflaute” in Germany, is typically referred to as anticyclonic gloom by weather experts.
The National Grid ESO, responsible for operating the grid, announced that for the second time this week, households would be incentivized to reduce their energy use on Friday, specifically between 4.30pm and 6pm, as part of measures to conserve electricity.
Additionally, the ESO is gearing up to import electricity from other European nations, utilizing the several interconnector cables that link the UK with the European mainland.
The UK’s increasing dependence on renewable energy sources means that its power supply is more susceptible to weather conditions. In the first half of 2023, a mix of low wind speeds and increased cloudiness led to reduced performance from wind turbines and solar farms. Furthermore, the UK’s power production faced challenges due to malfunctions in its ageing nuclear power stations.
As a result, the UK had to import unprecedented amounts of electricity from Europe, leading to import costs of £2 billion, as disclosed by government data.
